Bennett observed Ariana with a cheerful smile, knowing that she was using the meal as a way to subtly express her frustrations. However, he wasn't bothered by it. Instead, he inquired in a friendly tone, “How about now? Are you satisfied with the dishes? If not, feel free to request more."

Ariana simply snorted, choosing not to respond verbally.

Bennett added, "If none of these dishes catch your interest, I also have farmed crocodile meat. Would you like to sample it?"

The mere mention of crocodile meat sent a chill down Ariana's back; she wasn't enthusiastic about trying such “exotic” flavors.

"No, the dishes now are good enough for me," Ariana replied with a forced smile. "Mr. Olson, you certainly know how to host a guest."

Bennett chuckled and returned his focus to his wine.

Despite the grand feast in front of her, Ariana's thoughts wandered elsewhere. Her mind drifted to thoughts of Holden and the children.

She pondered how Melon was faring in Eleymond now.

With her and Holden's absence in Eleymond, she worried about his emotional state and health. Would he fall ill again?

But she assumed Mitchel was likely in Eleymond; he would help Melon if anything happened.

As for poor Adele, she empathized with Adele's trauma from the car accident, hoping her illness wasn't deteriorating.

Regarding Holden, she was aware of his supposed proximity, yet his recent absence left her uneasy.

Where could he be? What was he doing? Was he at risk of being discovered? Was he safe now?

Lost in her contemplation, Ariana mechanically poked at her food, crushing the meat without consuming it.

Bennett noticed this and casually asked, "Not enjoying the meal?"

Ariana remained silent, prompting Bennett to frown and say, “What's with the chef tonight? Toss him to the crocodiles."

“Wait! It's actually quite tasty!" Ariana interjected hastily, taking a bite, "I just like to tenderize it first; it aids digestion."

This elicited a smile from Bennett.

Ariana felt a chill down her spine at the sight of his smile.

Bennett's cavalier attitude toward other people's lives unsettled her.