Initially uncertain whether Holden and Adrian were alive or not, he had maintained vigilance. Now, settled in this location, his instincts suggested they were possibly dead, allowing him to relax.

Here, on his familiar terrain, and assuming they kept to shallow areas, guiding Ariana along seemed harmless.

This thought brought a smile to Bennett's face. He reached out and playfully pinched Ariana's cheek, savoring the sensation. He repeated the action a few times, clearly entertained.

It was clear why Holden had taken a liking to her.

Ariana, deeply engrossed in sleep, felt none of this. Exhausted from the previous activities, she was in a deep slumber. As dawn broke, she woke up and quickly checked on Bennett. Seeing the rope still secure him and that he appeared to be sleeping reassured her.