Standing beside Bennett, Holden clutched his chest and gazed calmly at Moss.
Though Mossâ words were cutting, it was clear he was no longer as suspicious of Holden as before.
Holden remained calm, yet inwardly, he smirked, confident that his strategy had proven effective.
Moss continued to sneer at Holden, heedless of Holdenâs dignity.
âEveryone desires a fierce eagle as a guardian, but I prefer a loyal watchdog that barks when needed.
â After Moss saw Holdenâs expression change, his face betrayed an intensifying sense of contempt.
âAn eagle might one day turn its sharp beak against its master, but no matter how fierce a dog, it cannot leap as high.
â
Holden bowed his head, appearing docile like a submissive dog obeying its masterâs commands.
Yet behind his back, he clenched his fists tightly.
He understood he must endure this humiliation until he found Ariana.
As Moss concluded his scathing remarks, Holden caught Bennettâs chuckle.
Bennettâs expression was soft, looking harmless.
Holden had anticipated Bennett mocking him, but he was surprised when Bennett came to his defense.
âUncle Moss, Colt is actually quite capable and one of my most trusted assistants.
Perhaps he recognizes your seniority and chooses not to show aggression,â Bennett said gently, adding a few more words to ease the tension.
âYou are too kind to him!â Moss snorted but said nothing further.
âs
Once inside the room, Moss began issuing orders to Holden.
âGo to the first laboratory and fetch the first-aid kit,â Moss told Holden, pointing towards the laboratory.
Holden nodded and left.
He seized this chance to survey the surroundings.
His eyes caught sight of an elevator, which suggested there were underground floors.
He resolved to find an opportunity to descend and investigate.
Holden returned, clutching the first-aid kit, just in time to hear Moss and Bennett talking.
Pouring a glass of water for Moss, Bennett said with concern, âUncle Moss, donât confine yourself to the dense forest.
Take a stroll outside, soak up some sun, or try fishing.
Itâll greatly benefit your health.
â
Accepting the water, Moss didnât drink right away.
He smiled and replied, âItâs unusual for you to be so concerned about me.
â
âUncle Moss, youâre mistaken,â Bennett gently said.
âIâve always cared deeply for you.
â Noticing Mossâ hair, Bennett remarked, âYou seem to have quite a bit of gray hair now.
â
âReally? I hadnât noticed.
â Moss touched his hair.
âYes.
â Bennett nodded.
âI have a black hair dye that works wonders.
Iâll have Colt bring it to you soon.
â
âThank you for that,â Moss responded.
âDonât mention it.
â Bennett waved it off.
âBut they say gray hair spreads fast with age.
Maybe the dye wonât last long.
If you find it useful, let me know, and Iâll get more for you.
â
âAlright,â Moss replied with a smile.