"You shameless jerk!" Ariana's voice seethed with fury.

Bennett shrugged indifferently, his retort dripping with sarcasm. "Is this the first time you've seen me be shameless?"

An uncomfortable silence fell.

Adrian tentatively broke the silence, asking, “So, who was responding to my knocks earlier?"

“It was me," Bennett replied, his gaze icy. “Why do you ask?"

“Oh," Adrian responded casually, his face cold. “I was just curious if it was my friend matching my rhythm earlier."

Bennett's expression darkened as he scoffed, "You seem unusually cheerful for someone who's trapped. Your happiness annoys me. I'll be sure to use you and Holden for my experiments soon."

"You're not just petty; you're vile," Adrian snapped back, his tone icy.

Bennett glared at him, his voice dripping with malice. "Your sharp tongue could use a dose of concentrated sulfuric acid. I might just arrange that in the lab.”

Adrian met his gaze with a defiant smile. "And I'll make sure to return the favor."

Their exchange of threats subsided after a while.

Bennett inquired about surveillance in the room, relieved to learn there were no cameras. Otherwise, Moss could not have let him off if he learned about his relationship with Ariana and the others.

After all, Moss was, in his eyes, the craziest person in the world.

"Why are you also here, Adrian?" Holden suddenly asked.

Adrian explained, "I woke up in the forest, ambushed by Moss. He captured me. I tried to locate you before, but I couldn't."

Holden nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I've been searching for you as well. We must have taken different routes, which explains why we didn't cross paths."

After sharing their current situations, the group started to brainstorm escape plans from the metal house.

Holden, Ariana, and Adrian gathered to discuss their strategy.

Meanwhile, Bennett was left alone, leaning against the wall with his arms folded, showing little interest in joining the discussion.

Adrian glanced at Bennett.