Chapter 315

Sophia Laurent appeared momentarily startled, but the cameras were rolling and the live stream was already underway. There was no backing out now. The three male contestants exchanged smug glances, convinced they had this challenge in the bag without any female competitors holding them back.

Evelyn Sinclair remained silent. Her only objective was completing the course. Victory meant nothing to her.

The rules were clear - no assistants allowed during filming. Only the cameraman followed them, strictly prohibited from offering any assistance.

Grabbing the provided gear and backpack, Evelyn studied the map before splitting off from the group. Two routes were marked: mountain path and waterway. Fate had assigned her and Sophia the mountainous trail.

Sophia trailed behind, her gaze burning into Evelyn's back with poorly concealed envy. Despite years in the industry, she'd only landed this gig after winning Most Promising Actress - an award her sugar daddy had essentially purchased. Without his influence, she'd still be a D-list nobody.

Meanwhile, Evelyn commanded attention effortlessly. An outsider to Hollywood, yet more magnetic than any A-lister.

Sophia's bitter musings were interrupted when she noticed the camera lens swinging her way. Instantly, her expression transformed into eager enthusiasm as she quickened her pace.

"Ms. Sinclair, do you understand this map?" Evelyn turned with a polite smile.

"Just call me Evelyn. The markings aren't precise, but we're generally heading the right way. There's only one path anyway." She gestured ahead. "I doubt production would lead us to a dead end."

Sophia's eyes darted to the camera. "Of course, Evelyn. I'll follow your lead." She forced a laugh. "I adore outdoor adventures. This show feels like my natural habitat."

Evelyn blinked. The random declaration confused her until she caught the cameraman's position. Of course - playing to the audience.

"Do you enjoy these challenges, Evelyn?" Sophia pressed.

A flicker of irritation crossed Evelyn's face as she walked ahead. Are we here to chat or compete? "It's fine, I suppose," she answered vaguely, repeatedly checking the map to discourage further conversation.

Sophia either didn't notice or chose to ignore Evelyn's disinterest. Drama meant screen time, and screen time meant relevance. She needed juicy content to stay memorable.

"Evelyn," she ventured with faux innocence, "did you join this show because of Adrian? After surviving that indigenous tribe together, you must share such a deep connection." Her words dripped with implication.

Evelyn's brows knitted. What exactly was she insinuating? Were cameras not present, she'd have shut this nonsense down immediately.

Does she think I'm an idiot? Evelyn accelerated, pretending not to hear.

Undeterred, Sophia matched her pace. Seeing Evelyn's silence, her eyes gleamed with mischief. "Evelyn...are you upset?" She feigned concern. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize your relationship wasn't public yet—"

Evelyn inhaled sharply. This two-faced witch deserved no acting accolades. Best Director would be more fitting - she was orchestrating an entire drama single-handedly.