Ariana paused, caught off guard by the unexpected scene.

Having endured days filled with brutality and bloodshed, the sight of this innocent puppy nearly brought tears to Ariana's eyes.

The puppy's enthusiastic tail wagging melted Ariana's heart as it continued to greet her with unbridled joy. She approached and tenderly stroked the puppy's head.

Affectionately, the puppy nuzzled her palm before eagerly snuggling into her embrace.

While she cradled the puppy tenderly, Ariana was abruptly startled by the sound of Bennett's voice.

She spun around to pinpoint the source, spotting a drone hovering outside the window.

Bennett's voice emanated from the drone's speaker, echoing through the room.

"It seems luck favors you today. That's too bad. I was anticipating your discomfort.”

Cradling the puppy protectively, Ariana retorted icily, “Luck? If I were truly fortunate, I wouldn't have found myself here or met you."

Bennett chuckled lightly. “You're still full of fire, huh? Are you still hoping for that man to save you?"

Ariana maintained a dark expression, not saying anything.

“Dream on," Bennett continued with a smug grin. "Instead of daydreaming about that, focus on how to earn my favor. Those phone calls couldn't rescue you, you know."

The mention of the calls caught Ariana off guard. She hadn't expected Bennett to find out about that.

Bennett taunted, “Those calls you placed? Even if they connected, they're futile in leading Holden here.”

Suddenly, it dawned on Ariana.

The recent death of the guard on shift today... Was Bennett behind it?

Bennett, observing her realization through the drone's lens, added with a chuckle, "Worthless individuals only consume air; they're better off gone. I don't keep freeloaders."

Ariana scoffed, "You are the worthless person here, always finding time to spy on me."

Bennett replied nonchalantly, "You're my prey, and hunting demands patience."

Ariana clenched her teeth, fixing a piercing gaze on the drone.