“Five, four, three, two, one."

By the time Bennett reached "one", Ariana had landed in the chair across from him, her glare shooting daggers. She was furious.

Bennett just grinned. "You were scared, huh? Don't worry. Those two mastiffs won't bite."

Ariana forced a tight smile, not believing him at all.

Bennett then gestured toward the door, ordering, “Bring them over here."

Ariana tensed up as the dogs trotted over to Bennett.

They sat down, tails wagging, and Bennett fed them sausages one by one, petting them.

The mastiffs gently took the food from Bennett and even licked his fingers without a hint of aggression.

After wiping his hands on a napkin, Bennett had them do a few tricks; they were just like any other well-trained pets.

Ariana's anger bubbled up since Bennett had played her using the dogs.

She snapped, smacking her knife and fork down on her plate with a loud crash.

She glared at Bennett, wanting to curse him but holding back.

Bennett barely reacted and continued to calmly sip his coffee.

Silence fell over the dining room.

The servants nearby lowered their heads, clearly nervous.

They believed Ariana was so bold to confront Bennett like that.

No one spoke a word; it was like even their breathing got quieter.

Bennett looked at Ariana with a casual grin and asked, “What's the matter? Is there something you don't like?"

Ariana shot back icily, "I don't like any of this."

The air felt heavy like it was about to suffocate everyone in the room.