Chapter 341

Sophia froze in place, her cheeks burning with humiliation.

Her intentions were painfully obvious to everyone, but Nathan Blackwood had shut her down without hesitation.

The director quickly intervened, rewarding Sophia with the privilege of leading the next challenge.

Online comments exploded with ruthless commentary.

[Did Sophia just get publicly humiliated by Mr. Blackwood?] [This is both tragic and hilarious!] [Everyone's having fun except poor Evelyn - she's the only one taking this treasure hunt seriously!] [Am I imagining things or does Mr. Blackwood look at Evelyn like she's the only woman in the world?]

The group moved to their next destination using Sophia's treasure map. Along the way, Adrian sidled up to Nathan with a smirk.

"Uncle Nate, that was some bold cheating back there," he whispered. "Changing the rules without consulting anyone? Even the director didn't dare object!"

Nathan shot him a sideways glance, his voice crisp and cold. "I could remove you from this show just as easily. Care to test that theory?"

Adrian choked on his laughter, instantly silenced.

He knew better than to doubt his uncle's threats. "You're obsessed with Evelyn, but she's not interested. You're wasting your time!"

Nathan stopped walking abruptly, turning to face his nephew with icy intensity. "And she's not interested in you either, Adrian Blackwood. Stop fantasizing about what you can't have. Consider this your final warning."

The unspoken threat hung heavy between them. Nathan tolerated Adrian because of their family ties, but his patience had limits.

Adrian swallowed hard, suddenly finding it difficult to breathe. His gaze drifted ahead to where Evelyn walked with Ethan, deep in discussion about the upcoming challenge.

The painful truth settled in his chest. Despite everything they'd been through together, Evelyn only saw him as a friend. And now with Nathan in the picture...

Adrian jogged to catch up with his uncle. "You really love her, don't you?"

Nathan gave him a look that suggested the question was idiotic.

Adrian exhaled sharply. "Fine. You're probably the only man worthy of my Evelyn anyway. Since you've changed for the better, I'll help you. Family should keep the good stuff to ourselves, right?"

Nathan ignored Adrian's rambling, his attention fixed on Evelyn's animated conversation with Ethan. He quickened his pace to intercept them.

"Evelyn."

She turned, her smile fading when she saw him. "Problem?"

Nathan's lips curved. "Several, actually."

Ethan took the hint and retreated to join Adrian who had fallen behind. Evelyn inhaled deeply through her nose.

What does he want now?

The next location came into view quickly. The final challenge was an extreme sport - bungee jumping from a hundred-meter cliff, popular among thrill-seekers.

Sophia's face lit up with excitement. Crew members prepared safety harnesses for each participant while the director explained the rules.

"Everyone will board that hot air balloon," he pointed, "for a game of truth. Sophia will determine penalties based on how well each pair performs. One punishment option is an 80-meter bungee jump from this cliff. Those who refuse must accept whatever creative punishment Sophia devises."

This was the advantage of finding the treasure map.

No wonder Sophia looked so pleased with herself!