Bennett didn't say a word and just nodded to agree.

Ariana added, "Since I'm going along with this, I also want something else. I don't want to go back to the arena."

She dropped her eyes, looking uncharacteristically humble. “I can't fight those beast slaves anymore. That place is awful. Just do this one thing for me, okay?"

Even though knowing Ariana's intention, seeing her Like this, Bennett was in a good mood. With a grin, he said, "Keep me entertained, and I'll agree to all your requests."

He straightened up in his seat and started the phonograph, giving her the signal to start dancing.

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 couldn't 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.

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.