When the Dead Still Call novel Chapter 13

Chapter 13: The First Challenge

As soon as Huxley finished his announcement, Gianna let out a sharp, incredulous scream. “Three miles? And with all this luggage? My shoes aren’t built for that!” She glanced down at her towering four-inch heels, clearly frustrated.

What kind of cruel ordeal was this supposed to be? Was the show deliberately designed to make them suffer?

Gianna’s heart sank with a pang of regret. She had assumed this reality show would be like the others she’d seen — scripted scenes, rehearsed lines, just a pretty façade. All she needed was to look good on camera.

But now it was obvious the director was serious.

Kristina and Patricia, too, were wearing sandals and leather shoes — hardly suitable for trekking. Only Bella had come prepared with sneakers, and Amelia sported simple canvas shoes.

Huxley blew his whistle sharply, cutting through their protests. “The challenge starts now!”

Without a word, Amelia hoisted her suitcase and began striding forward. Bella was quick to follow her lead.

The remaining three lingered behind, grumbling as they reluctantly began to trudge onward.

The mountain trail was rugged, uneven, and the sun beat down mercilessly. Sweat formed beads on Amelia’s forehead, but she didn’t slow her pace for a second.

She had endured far worse hardships than this. A simple walk like this was nothing.

Her mind drifted back to those lost years — years that had felt like a living nightmare.

Not long after, Gianna’s whining voice echoed from behind. “Amelia, wait up! My feet hurt so much.”

Amelia didn’t turn around. She knew the cameras were trained on her, and any reaction would be twisted into drama.

Suddenly, Kristina shouted, “Amelia, you’re heartless! Didn’t you hear your sister calling?”

Amelia finally halted and faced them. Gianna was limping, tears streaming down her cheeks, looking fragile and defeated.

Calmly, Amelia said, “She brought this on herself. Who shows up to an outdoor reality show wearing high heels? Anyone with common sense wouldn’t do that.”

Her words hit like a bombshell. The livestream chat exploded instantly.

[Wow, Amelia actually said it! She’s fearless!]

[Honestly, she’s right!]

[But isn’t it okay to want to look good on camera?]

[Walking a hiking trail in heels? That’s on her.]

[This show is insane. These sisters are so fake!]

Amelia’s face paled, tears welling up in her eyes. “Gianna, how can you be so mean?”

“Did I say anything wrong? Even a child knows not to wear heels for outdoor activities,” Amelia shot back firmly.

Nearby, Bella smiled softly, clearly impressed. This Amelia was far more intriguing than she had expected.

[Things are about to get interesting.]

In the control room, Huxley wiped sweat from his brow. The show was exceeding his expectations.

Still, he recalled Marcelo’s instructions. Yet at this point, it seemed impossible to steer events as planned.

The main reason was Amelia herself — tough, honest, and unpretentious. There was no weakness to exploit. Huxley found himself admiring her.

Girls like Amelia were rare these days, especially in the entertainment world.

All he could do now was watch and wait.

After the five participants had settled into their beds and unpacked their belongings, they were given a brief break before the next task.

The first mission: head to the vegetable garden at the town entrance and gather ingredients for the day’s meal — all within an hour.

As soon as the challenge was announced, Gianna grabbed Amelia’s arm, her tone sweet but calculating. “Amelia, let’s team up! We can help each other.”

She hoped Amelia would do the heavy lifting so she wouldn’t get too exhausted.

Amelia gently pulled her arm away, a small smile playing on her lips. “No thanks. I prefer to work alone.”

The livestream chat erupted once more.