With her and Holdens absence in Eleymond, she worried about his emotional state and health. Would he fall ill again?
But she assumed Mitchel was likely in Eleymond; he would help Melon if anything happened.
As for poor Adele, she empathized with Adeles trauma from the car accident, hoping her illness wasnt deteriorating.
Regarding Holden, she was aware of his supposed proximity, yet his recent absence left her uneasy.
Where could he be? What was he doing? Was he at risk of being discovered?
Was he safe now?
Lost in her contemplation, Ariana mechanically poked at her food, crushing the meat without consuming it.
Bennett noticed this and casually asked, Not enjoying the meal?
Ariana remained silent, prompting Bennett to frown and say, Whats with the chef tonight? Toss him to the crocodiles.
Wait! Its actually quite tasty! Ariana interjected hastily, taking a bite.
I just like to tenderize it first; it aids digestion.
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This elicited a smile from Bennett.
Ariana felt a chill down her spine at the sight of his smile.
Bennetts cavalier attitude toward other peoples lives unsettled her. She understood that his tolerance for her stemmed from his interest in her. If his interest waned, her life could be at risk.
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As Ariana struggled to consume her meal, her worry for Holden grew more intense. Bennetts unpredictability added to her concern, especially since this place was under his control.
She pondered the safety of Holden and Adrians hiding place, worried about them.
Concerned, she feigned interest and inquired, Regarding the arena, arent those beast slaves kept illegally? That is against the law, right? Arent you concerned about getting reported and arrested?
Bennett paused momentarily upon hearing Arianas words, then erupted into laughter as if her words were the most amusing he had ever heard.
Youre hilarious, he managed to say between fits of laughter, doubling over and pounding the table.
As Ariana watched him laugh, a chill ran down her spine; the scene felt unsettling and ominous.
While she had long been aware of Bennetts cold and callous nature, she suddenly realized that his lack of empathy ran deeper; he seemed utterly disconnected from humanitys essence.
To Bennett, treating people like mere commodities seemed entirely acceptable.
Ariana believed she and Bennett inhabited different realities. Bennett was a complete lunatic.
After his outburst of laughter, Bennett composed himself, wiping away tears before turning to look at Ariana. Honestly, I cant decide if youre genuinely naive or just playing a game. You dont think Im a novice at this, do you? Dont you wonder why no one has ever blown the whistle on me after all these years?