Ariana let the puppy down and watched as it explored the room, finding a cozy spot for itself.

It was evident that someone had anticipated her furry companion's arrival, providing a dog bed and dog food in the room.

After tending to her puppy, Ariana found herself gazing out the window, her mood heavy.

But the thought of Holden being nearby offered a glimmer of solace to her.

She placed her trust in Holden's resourcefulness to find a way to get her out of here.

With a deep breath of fresh air, she perked herself up with a gentle slap on the cheek before making her way to the bathroom for a quick shower.

As Ariana sank into the bathtub, closing her eyes, she felt all the tension drain away.

Emerging from her bath, she collapsed onto the plush bed, exhaustion washing over her.

Though it was still early, sleep beckoned irresistibly, pulling her into its comforting embrace.

When she awoke, darkness shrouded the world outside her window.

As she stirred, her foot brushed against something, or someone, at the foot of the bed!

Startled, she suppressed a scream, her mind immediately jumping to the possibility of Holden's unexpected arrival.

A flicker of hope danced within her, but she quickly squashed it.

Given their precarious circumstances, she knew Holden wouldn't be here.

Once she calmed down, Ariana realized that this person didn't smell familiar. With a gulp, she mustered the courage to ask, "Who's there?"

In the blink of an eye, the lights were turned on in the room.

Bennett showed up right in front of Ariana.

He grabbed her chin, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. "You seemed really happy just now. Who were you expecting?"

Ariana didn't even blink. She stared him down and shot back, “You've got a sharp eye; it was dark just now. Have you got yourself night vision goggles or something?"

She then quickly wriggled out of his hold, adding, "I thought I was at home for a second and mistook you for my dog from Eleymond. My bad."