Chapter 162

The morning sun bathed the courtyard of the inn as Aria Bennett and Damian Cross returned from their jog, carrying steaming breakfast boxes.

"You two are so thoughtful!" Audrey Lane was the first to rush over, her eyes sparkling as she took the food from Aria.

The director walked in right on schedule, wearing a mysterious smile. "Today, we'll be visiting the various pavilions of Aldercrest Mountain. Let's see which team can get through the gates first."

Caleb Monroe perked up immediately. "Finally, our time to shine!"

"Exactly," Wesley Hart chimed in with a grin. "Yesterday, little Aria took the ladies out for a night stroll and left us hanging."

Vivienne Archer looped her arm through Aria's. "If Aria were a guy, I'd totally chase after her!"

The live comments exploded:

[Ahhh my Aria is too cool!]

[That damn charm—even girls can't resist!]

[From today onward, I'm calling her "hubby"!]

Aria shook her head helplessly. "Stop messing around."

"Director," she suddenly asked, "what's the reward for winning?"

The director smirked. "Each cleared challenge earns a special gift from Aldercrest Mountain."

Caleb and Wesley high-fived. "That's an amazing prize!"

Damian, however, gave a knowing smile. "Don't celebrate too soon."

"Mr. Cross," Caleb said confidently, "our team came prepared this time!"

The director cut in, "A friendly reminder—if you don’t meet the requirements, you’ll be turned away."

The group erupted in protest.

"What?" Caleb's eyes widened. "Are you messing with us?"

The director shrugged innocently. "Aldercrest Mountain has its own rules."

Aria mused, "So the key is meeting their standards?"

"Exactly," the director nodded. "But if one team succeeds, the rest can follow."

Wesley groaned. "Director, you’re too sneaky!"

Live comments flooded in:

[Hahaha the director’s evil!]

[I knew it wouldn’t be that simple!]

[Can’t wait to see them get rejected!]

Seeing the guests about to revolt, the director made a quick escape. "Better get moving, everyone!"

The two teams exchanged glances, tension and anticipation thick in the air. This challenge was going to be far tougher than they’d imagined.