She hated Bennett. Without him, she wouldn't have endured this prolonged separation from Holden and her child. His interference had led to Holden and Adrian's perilous situation while trying to rescue her, causing suffering for everyone involved.

Every bit of this chaos was Bennett's doing.

“I detest Bennett to the core; I'd choose death over returning to him," Ariana declared firmly. “If you insist on taking me back, then take my dead body back and tell Bennett to fuck off!"

Ariana was seething with anger, her voice resonating through the silent woods.

Now, she felt trapped, like a cornered rabbit. She swore that if she ever ran into Bennett again, she would kill him.