When the Dead Still Call novel Chapter 20

Chapter 20: Survival

Marcelo shook his head firmly. “Mom, the livestream is nearly over. If we change things now, the viewers will only get more upset.”

His mother was visibly distressed, pacing back and forth with worry. “Oh dear, what can we do? Gianna must be terrified in such an unfamiliar environment—that’s why she’s stumbling. And now, the online crowd is tearing her apart. She’s been spoiled her entire life; how could she possibly handle something like this?”

Trying to soothe her, Marcelo said calmly, “Relax, Mom. I’ve already asked Melissa to manage the situation. Just one more day to go. After that, I’ll organize some events to help Gianna rebuild her reputation.”

In truth, Gianna’s rise to fame had always been fueled by lavish spending on publicity, stirring gossip, and carefully crafting her image.

Finally, his mother nodded, a bit more composed.

Behind the scenes, the director’s voice rang out, announcing the final challenge. “Alright, everyone! The last round is… Survival on an uninhabited island! You’ll spend 24 hours there, complete missions, and find the treasure we’ve hidden!”

Gianna’s face immediately fell. She muttered under her breath, “What? A deserted island? Is there even a proper bathroom? Hot water?”

Though she tried to mask her reaction, the camera caught every flicker of her expression.

The livestream chat exploded with comments.

[LOL, Gianna thinks this is a vacation!]

[Who asks for hot water during a survival challenge? Does she think this is a drama shoot?]

[This is going to be hilarious. Hope Gianna doesn’t drag the team down.]

[Just kick Gianna out already. I can’t stand this diva!]

The director handed out survival kits. “You’ll find basic gear inside. Everything else is up to you.”

Gianna opened her pack and immediately complained, “Seriously? Just a cheap knife, a fire starter, and only one bottle of water? How is anyone supposed to survive with this?”

Patricia rolled her eyes and said, “Gianna, it’s a survival challenge, not a vacation.”

Is she for real?

Doesn’t she realize this is all live-streamed?

Is she trying to get roasted on purpose?

Never seen someone so eager to be hated.

Without realizing the camera was still on her, Gianna snapped, “I know, no need to lecture me.”

The feed quickly switched to Amelia, who was calmly organizing her gear with smooth, deliberate movements—no drama, no complaints.

She picked up a multi-tool knife, twirled it effortlessly between her fingers, and flashed a confident smile at the camera. “This will come in handy.”

The comments section erupted in praise.

[Wow, she’s so badass!]

[Amelia is such an underrated star!]

Meanwhile, Gianna gripped the railing, her face pale. “Why is this boat shaking so much? I’m going to be sick.”

Staff hurried over with seasickness medicine.

She collapsed back into her seat, whining, “What kind of ridiculous show is this? I just want to go home.”

Gianna had completely given up. She no longer cared about appearances.

All she wanted was to go back and be pampered again. She was meant to be treated like a princess. Why should she have to suffer like this? Ugh!

Finally, the boat reached the island. Everyone disembarked, looking uncertain.

This was a true deserted island, covered in dense jungle and sharp rocks—with not even a proper trail.

The director shouted through a megaphone, “Your task is to survive here for 24 hours and find the treasure hidden on the island. Begin!”

Without hesitation, Amelia slung her kit over her shoulder and strode confidently into the forest.

The others followed quickly behind.

Amelia soon found a clean water source and used large banana leaves to build a simple shelter.

Kristina, Patricia, and Bella joined her to help.

The director had planned to split them into teams, but no one wanted to be paired with Gianna.