Everyone was caught off guard by the turn of events.
Diana's feelings were an open book to everyone, plain as day. But Connor? His thoughts were a vault-locked tight and off-limits. The helicopter had already touched down when Connor suddenly walked up to Diana and whispered, "Cwith me." A glimmer of hope pierced Diana's gloomy mood. She followed Connor to a secluded spot, away from prying eyes and cameras.
Connor's eyes were cold as he spoke, "I warned you from the start, Barrett is likely working for Claire. Why did you get involved with him? Anyone else would have been fine. Why did you choose Barrett?" Diana felt the chill in his voice, so different from the warmth she was used to. "Uncle Connor, anyone else? So I can not choose you?" Diana's eyes welled up as she finally found the courage to speak her heart.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtConnor looked at her deeply before finally saying, "Yeah." Was this really his answer? Diana's heart plummeted. Tears streamed down her cheeks. She said nothing, just took a few steps back before bolting toward the helicopter.
Barrett was already waiting by the helicopter. Diana climbed in, and Barrett followed suit.
Connor watched them leave, a mix of helplessness and worry clouding his eyes.
Meanwhile, back at the main site, the director had started doling out rewards and punishments for the day's cooking competition.
The last-place punishment? A grueling 5,000-meter run on the beach.
Pax didn't mind; he was used to running before bed anyway. But for Kalilah, it was a nightmare. She'd barely eaten for days, and today she could only manage a single bite. She collapsed after barely starting the run.
им Faith, eager for news, asked Lovebot, "What about Connor and Chloe's reward?" Before she could finish, the sound of another helicopter landing filled the air. Lovebot spun around, practically dancing with excitement.
"The first-place reward is a romantic date on Angel Island for both of you. Surprised?" Chloe was at a loss for words. The last thing she wanted was to be alone with Connor, but she boarded the helicopter with him nonetheless.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmAngel Island wasn't far from Devil Island; the two were neighboring islets. The helicopter ride took just ten minutes. As they landed, a castle-like villa cinto view.
A butler greeted them, explaining the basics of the island, which was actually a private retreat owned by a mysterious billionaire. The island boasted an array of entertainment facilities-everything from a racetrack and golf course to a wildlife park. There were bars, restaurants, and even a grand theater.
The island was bustling, but mostly with staff who served the billionaire and his occasional guests. The theater alone had hundreds of people on standby, ready to perform at a moment's notice.
After the butler's tour, they were led into the sprawling villa The place was enormous.
Chloe looked around and asked, "Are Barrett and Diana staying here tonight too?" m