Seeing him steals my breath. Heat blooms in me. My heart pounds before I remember all the reasons I shouldn’t feel this way.
Emily’s right. I can’t keep running forever. But surrendering to this without answers feels worse. Yet I’m also not sure if I’m ready for them. I need to buy myself more time.
When Miranda appears with her crew and that exploitative smile, I get the feeling that this show is about to turn on its head.
Chapter Six
Lyla
* * *
The pool deck shimmers in the afternoon light. Chlorine, salt water, and sunscreen hang heavy in the air. The producers have rearranged the loungers into a circle like we’re about to hold hands and sing “Kumbaya.” Not emotionally dismantle each other or rather make idiots of ourselves on cable television.
Miranda stands at the edge of the pool in a white romper that looks like it probably costs more than my rent.
“Everyone’s here? Good.” She looks around at all of us contestants. Half are on one side of the circle, while the rest are on the other half. Scott is across from me, controlled, observant.
The moment his stare meets mine, I look away.
“Then I think we’re ready to start rolling,” Miranda informs the crew behind the camera.
“Alright, rolling,” a producer yells.
Immediately, Miranda’s seeming slow smile forms tightly on her face. “Contestants! Welcome to our second challenge. Now, this one is where we’ll get more…up close and personal.”
My stomach tightens. What does that mean?
She goes on. “Today is about testing something far more than just trust: chemistry. Instinct. Natural desires. You will all be in this very circle blindfolded. When I tap your shoulder, that will be your cue to remove said blindfold—and to kiss one person within the circle.”
My stomach drops. Not because of what the challenge entails, but because I know exactly how it will go. Because of Scott.
Heat crawls up my neck. My pulse kicks up before I even look over at him.
He looks intrigued, almost amused. He arches a brow toward me.
I tear my gaze away.
Don’t react. Don’t give him or them anything.
Miranda continues. “Everyone else will remain blindfolded while you make your decision. And you will remain anonymous to whoever you kiss. You can either choose the person you’re coupled up with or whoever has piqued your interest. The choice is up to you.”
Murmurs ripple through the group.
“Once you’ve made your choice, and given your smooches, you’ll return to your spot in the circle and put your blindfold back on. When everyone has had a turn, you’ll be given a signal to take off your blindfolds, ending the challenge. Sound simple?” Miranda pauses as though for dramatic effect, given the sly smirk on her face. “But be warned. Every action…has its consequence. Especially when everyone can hear you.”
Moments later, we’re each given thick blindfolds.
A producer appears with her tablet in hand, going around to each contestant. At one point, she stops at Scott.
“You,” she points to him, “can you look more brooding? Maybe clench your fists and jaw?”
I am shocked at the woman’s words. Scott’s expression, along with his voice, turns cold. “You want me to perform my emotions for your cameras?”
“Think of it as...enhancing the narrative.” Shockingly, the sharp producer seems unfazed.
“It’s manipulation. Now fuck off.”
I can’t help but let out a small laugh.
