While she wasn't adept at complicated knots, and Bennett wasn't one for them either, she fashioned a basic Windsor knot.

"ALL done."

This was the second time that Claudia assisted Bennett with his tie.

Compared with her shyness and embarrassment for the first time, this time, Claudia felt sweeter.

Bennett wrapped her in a gentle embrace, tilted his head and placed a soft kiss on her lips, whispering, "Thank you, Claudia."

Claudia lifted her gaze to meet his, getting lost in the depth of his eyes. She playfully remarked, “I want another kiss.”

Saying those words out loud, she started blushing.

Claudia felt that she was getting more and more bold.

Bennett dipped his head and pressed his lips gently against hers before slightly pulling back. Their foreheads touched, and he teased,

"Do you want another one?"

Claudia's cheeks reddened. Finding it hard to hold his intense gaze, she shifted her focus downward, resting on his collar, murmuring,

“We've had enough."

He playfully clicked his tongue, refusing to release her. With gentle fingers, he lifted her face to his, saying, “I believe we haven't,

Claudia."

His low voice was hoarse and lustful. And warm breath came out with his words.

"Then give me another kiss," she suggested, Lifting her eyes to meet his.

"Of course," he replied and kissed her again.

After Bennett said this, he bent down for another tender kiss.

Claudia's hand found its way to the fabric of his shirt as she angled her head to savor Bennett's sweet affection.

Caught in the daze of their early morning kiss, Claudia felt her face flush as she headed downstairs.

The front door stood open, inviting the morning air to waft inside and nudge her awake.

Bennett had already changed his shoes. He pulled her close, planting a soft kiss on her forehead.

"I'm taking you out tonight.

"What's the occasion?" Claudia inquired.