In the elevator, Bennett was already hitting the button, motioning for her to hurry up. "Come on, don't drag your feet."

Ariana rolled her eyes in her heart and stepped into the elevator, her face cold.

As soon as the doors closed, Bennett pulled her in closer, nearly causing her to trip.

He steadied her and said, “Never been to a banquet with your boyfriend before? Why are you keeping your distance? And cheer up. You need to smile; you look like your mother just died."

“You're the one whose mother is dead," Ariana snapped, regretting it the second the words left her Lips.

Who knew how Bennett would take that?

Fortunately, Bennett just chuckled. "You know, you're pretty unattractive when you're angry."

"Good, I'll keep my distance then. Wouldn't want to scare you into a heart attack with my unattractiveness. Bad for both of us," Ariana replied, trying to slip out of his grip. But Bennett held on tight, wrapping his arm around her shoulder to keep her close.

"Don't even think about it," Bennett said with a sharp edge to his voice. “Comply, or I'll feed you to the beasts.”

“Honestly, I'd rather deal with beasts than you," Ariana shot back, wriggling to get free.

But Bennett was way too strong, keeping her locked in his grasp as they headed toward the banquet hall. Ariana was still trying to break free when a familiar voice cut through the tension.

"Sir, all the guests have arrived."

Ariana's head snapped up when she heard the voice-Adrian was standing right in front of her!

He looked Like he had stepped out of a gangster movie, wearing dark sunglasses, a sharp black suit, and an earpiece. His stubble and tough-guy outfit really made him seem like someone working here.

Ariana quickly looked away, hoping Bennett wouldn't notice anything amiss.

But she was too late. Bennett had already noticed Adrian and asked casually, “You're new here? I haven't seen you around before."

Ariana felt her heart rate spike. Bennett was clearly on high alert, questioning anyone he didn't know.

"Yes, sir." Adrian dipped his head a bit and said, "I'm Kamdyn Barton, Mayfield's cousin. He recommended me for a job here at the estate."

Bennett seemed okay with that and didn't ask any more questions.

Mayfield was Bennett's right-hand man, the one he trusted most. They had been working together for nearly ten years.