Ariana remained silent.
Bennett, swelling with arrogance, declared, Im the kingpin of the underground scene here in Conata. Reporting me would be like signing a death warrant.
Ariana maintained her composure, taking a deliberate sip of her soup before speaking. Ah, so were in Conata? That sheds some light. Ive heard whispers about the pervasive human trafficking here.
Bennetts smile took on a sly edge as he replied, You have a knack for uncovering information. But let me be blunt; youre indeed within Conatas boundaries. And trust me, even if you sprouted wings, you couldnt escape.
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Silently, Ariana lowered her gaze and continued eating.
Undeterred, Bennett continued, I have a grip on everything here, from the skies to the streets. Think you can simply run away?
He continued his monologue, outlining Arianas apparent lack of escape routes. But instead of engaging, Ariana simply ate in silence.
Yet, beneath her calm surface, Ariana was sneering, already envisioning what would happen if this clandestine network was exposed.
Witnessing Arianas sudden quietness, Bennett felt an unexpected pang of discomfort. After a brief pause, he asked, Whats the matter? Cat got your tongue? You were quite vocal earlier, adamant about escaping, about your man coming for you. Now, nothing to say?
Ariana sniffled softly and muttered, Nothing.
Bennett arched an eyebrow, his smile tinged with mockery. Ah, seems like youve lost faith in your man, huh? Ive always said men are fickle, especially your Holden, living the high life in Eleymond. What reason does he have to drop everything he has for a woman and venture all the way here? But I must admit, I want to meet this Eleymond big shot.
Ariana shot Bennett a glance, her eyes brimming with tears, her once defiant expression clouded with sorrow. A tear escaped her eye as she cast her gaze downward.
Following a prolonged silence, she angrily shoved a piece of meat into her mouth, her frustration palpable. Then, she said, Its been days No word from him. You are right; Ive lost hope.
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.
Her voice caught in her throat, and she swallowed hard before meeting Bennetts gaze. You win, she admitted. I surrender.
Bennett watched Ariana with a smile that didnt reach his eyes. He narrowed his gaze, trying to read her expression.
He knew she had a stubborn streak, so it was surprising she caved after just one trip to the beast den.
Even though she looked disheartened, Bennett suspected she was plotting something.
He wasnt in a hurry, though. Watching her squirm was fun for him.
He was curious to see what she would do next.
Bennett smirked and said, Lets eat.
Ariana kept her head down during the meal. She barely touched her food and looked like she might be sick. Once she finished eating, she mumbled, Im going to bed.
Okay, go ahead, Bennett replied, sipping his soup. As Ariana left the room, he signaled one of his men with a quick nod.
The man followed Ariana upstairs. It wasnt long before he heard soft sobbing from her room.
The crying then grew louder and more desperate.