Instinctively, she stepped back, instantly on high alert.

Bennett's hand was still in the air. He didn't get angry at her actions. He just told one of his men, “Take her to rest."

Ariana shot him a glance before scooping up the puppy.

Bennett's man was acting more civil now. Instead of dragging Ariana along, he just nodded for her to follow.

With the puppy in her arms, Ariana left.

As Bennett watched Ariana leave, he calmly adjusted his cufflinks and said to someone nearby, "Keep a close eye on her. Make sure she doesn't try any funny business."

Ariana left with one of Bennett's guys, feeling like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

She couldn't believe how smoothly Bennett had let her leave the arena.

She had braced herself for a battle of wills, fearing she would have to find other ways to deal with this if Bennett disagreed.

As she walked, Ariana took in everything around her. This time, there was no blindfold on her, so she could take a good look around.

ALL she saw, though, were just dense woods filled with guards.

Eventually, they arrived at a beautiful villa.

It stood tall, adorned with golden trim that gleamed in the sunlight.

Inside, opulence greeted Ariana at every turn. Plush carpets, intricate chandeliers, and stained glass windows embedded with jewels painted the floors with vibrant hues.

Yet, amidst all the Luxury, Ariana couldn't shake off her unease.

The man ushered her to the second floor. There was a floor-to-ceiling window with a breathtaking view of a seemingly endless forest.

Ariana's heart sank as she stood by the window. She realized that getting out of here wasn't going to be simple.

The vibrant life outside only felt suffocating to her.

After a while, a reminder pulled her back to reality. "Miss Edwards, your room awaits."

Ariana was then led to her room and given a few short instructions before being left alone.