You may, Bennett replied with a grin. But you know theres always a condition when dealing with me.
A knot formed in Arianas stomach as she asked, Whats the condition?
Finish what you left off last night, Bennett said, chuckling as he recollected her previous defiance, his gaze fixated on her, clearly finding amusement in the situation.
Ariana remained silent for a considerable time, and Bennett patiently awaited her response.
Eventually, Ariana nodded and said, Alright, but Im quite bashful. Ill do it after everyone else leaves.
Agreed! Bennett swiftly consented, snapping his fingers. Everyone else quickly left under his instruction.
After that, Ariana still felt uneasy. Awkwardly turning to Bennett, she said, Im not adept at dancing. Could I perhaps sing instead?
Dont push your luck! Bennett retorted, resting his head on his hand as he observed her. But today, Im in a generous mood. You dont need to take off your clothes, but you must dance!
Ariana felt cornered and glanced at Bennett. She said, Okay, Ill dance, but you have to let me keep this puppy.
Bennett didnt say a word and just nodded to agree.
Ariana added, Since Im going along with this, I also want something else. I dont want to go back to the arena.
She dropped her eyes, looking uncharacteristically humble. I cant fight those beast slaves anymore. That place is awful. Just do this one thing for me, okay?
Even though knowing Arianas intention, seeing her like this, Bennett was in a good mood. With a grin, he said, Keep me entertained, and Ill agree to all your requests.
He straightened up in his seat and started the phonograph, giving her the signal to start dancing.
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Ariana took a deep breath.
She started dancing, a little stiff at first. But then, she spun and ended up right in front of Bennett. Without warning, she threw a punch at his face.
Bennett moved fast, dodging the hit and grabbing her wrist. His face darkened as he said, Are you trying to get yourself killed?
Ariana knew she couldnt defeat Bennett in a fight, so she forced a smile and said, Solo dances are dull. How about we dance together?
Quickly, she wrapped her arms around his neck and then shoved him back.
Bennett raised an eyebrow as Ariana spun away, but he held onto her wrist.
With a sly smile, he used the momentum to pull her right back to him.
Their dance turned into a subtle fight.
As Ariana spun to face him, she tried to jab him with her elbow, but Bennett swiftly let her go and then pulled her into a tight embrace.
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Ariana smirked and lifted her knee to nudge him in the ribs. But this time, Bennett sidestepped, caught her wrist, and pulled her in even tighter.
He kept a hand on her waist, letting it slide down just a touch. Meanwhile, he grinned with mischief.
Ariana blocked his arm and spun out of his grip, aiming to strike him again.
But Bennett blocked it with ease and yanked her close so that her arms would wrap around his neck.
When Ariana kicked at him, Bennett caught her ankle, causing her to lose balance. He then caught her in his arms as she stumbled.
The music on the phonograph hit its final note, and Ariana found herself held tightly by Bennett, unable to break free.
Her eyes glinted with danger even as she smiled.
Bennett met her gaze with a cool, almost playful look. He said slowly, I like the way you dance.
Ariana said through gritted teeth, Thanks. Now, can you let go?
Bennett said nothing in response. Their faces were now just inches apart. He lowered his head, smelling the scent of Ariana and pressing them even closer.