Chapter 387

The last golden rays of sunset vanished beneath the ocean's edge.

The clouds darkened into crimson streaks across the horizon.

Their plan to build a cabin had to be postponed—one day wasn't nearly enough.

Evelyn Laurent efficiently packed down the foundation before gathering vines to weave sleeping mats.

She knew Julian Langley and Ethan Sullivan too well.

These pampered young masters would never tolerate sleeping on hard ground.

As for herself? Any sturdy tree would do for the night.

The single sleeping bag naturally went to Bianca Fairchild, who was still injured.

Ethan walked silently toward the shore.

He couldn't bring himself to handle the still-twitching rabbits.

Seawater lapped at his ankles as he retrieved the fish traps Evelyn had set earlier.

Inside shimmered a few silvery fish and several feisty crabs.

Frowning at the meager haul, he grabbed a spear and dove beneath the waves.

Evelyn had exerted herself too much today—she needed proper nourishment.

Julian attempted to help with the weaving but only slowed progress.

With a resigned sigh, he went to assist Ethan instead.

Bianca's nimble fingers worked swiftly through the vines, creating neat, uniform patterns.

By full nightfall, three thick, cushioned mats lay completed.

The rich aroma of fish stew drifted through the air.

Evelyn's stomach growled traitorously.

Ethan stirred the creamy broth in a stone pot, emerald wild herbs floating atop.

"Try it," he said, handing her a brimming bowl.

Steam curled between them, glistening on his lashes.

The first sip exploded across her tongue—savory, perfectly balanced.

"Delicious," she murmured, eyes closing in pleasure as she drained the bowl.

Ethan wordlessly took the empty vessel and replaced it with another full of flaky, boneless fish.

Evelyn blinked, warmth blooming in her chest.

She ate quietly, missing how Ethan drank from the same bowl her lips had touched.

Julian's jaw clenched.

He opened his mouth to protest when Bianca's sharp glance silenced him.

Darkness fully embraced the island.

Cameramen began packing equipment.

Timothy Gold's amplified voice announced, "That's a wrap for today's live stream!"

The virtual audience erupted in dismay, demanding more footage.

Among all participants, only Evelyn's group had constructed proper shelter.

Rachel and Leo Clemenson, along with Hugo and Crystal Rothschild, received compensation packages after failing to pair up properly.

Hugo stood rigid outside his tent, moonlight stretching his shadow long and thin.

Sea breeze rustled through palm fronds.

Gazing at the star-strewn sky, Evelyn found herself... enjoying this unexpected night.