Chapter 67

Damian Cross gazed at her radiant smile, his eyes softening unconsciously.

"Don't mention it. I genuinely think you're perfect for this role."

His slender fingers swiped across his phone screen. "Once this livestream wraps up, I’ll have the producer contact you directly."

Aria Bennett’s eyes curved into crescents. "Sounds great!"

The two leaned in, studying the script together, their hushed exchanges drawing curious glances from the other guests.

Everyone knew Damian—the so-called "gentleman" of the silver screen—kept others at arm's length. Yet Aria was the first to receive such warmth from him.

Nolan Reed clenched his fists, his glare fixed on the pair. He’d wanted to sit beside Aria, only to be beaten to it by him.

Serena Blake bit her lip, her nails digging into her palms. She’d never seen Damian treat anyone with such tenderness. Why did Aria deserve special treatment?

Turning to Nolan, a calculating glint flashed in her eyes. Seizing the moment as the plane jolted, she "accidentally" spilled water on Jonah Pierce.

"Professor Pierce, I’m so sorry!" she apologized with pitiable sweetness.

Jonah frowned at his soaked shirt, muttering a stiff "It’s fine" before heading off to change.

Serena seized the chance to slide into the seat beside Nolan, her voice trembling. "Nolan… are you still mad at me?"

A splitting headache struck him. A seductive whisper slithered through his mind: She needs your protection…

"Get away!" He shoved her aside, staggering toward the restroom.

Serena froze under the mocking stares around her. Her grip on her skirt tightened until the fabric nearly tore.

Inside the restroom, Nolan splashed cold water on his face. The unnatural urge finally faded, leaving his reflection cold-eyed and grim.

"Something’s wrong…" he muttered.

Returning to his seat, he fixed Serena with an icy glare. "This is Jonah’s spot."

Tears welling, Serena slunk away—only to bump into Jonah, now changed. His knowing smirk sent prickles down her spine.

Three hours later, the helicopter touched down on a secluded island.

Azure waves lapped against lush jungles as five burly men approached.

The director introduced them. "Your survival guides and bodyguards." He stressed, "They won’t intervene unless your lives are at risk."

The crew distributed standard backpacks. Aria inventoried hers: camouflage suit, combat boots, rope, entrenching tool…

While others rummaged for skincare, she withdrew yellow talisman paper and a compass, both glinting mysteriously in the sunlight.

[Live comments exploded]

"WTF is Aria doing?!"

"Drawing talismans on a survival show? Peak entertainment!"

"Does she seriously think paper scraps will save her?"

Audrey Lane couldn’t resist. "Will those actually help?"

Aria traced the talisman’s edge, smiling wordlessly. The sea breeze tousled her hair, lending her an ethereal air.

No one noticed two bodyguards stiffen at the sight of her compass.