Chapter 652

"On the count of three, two, one—once I say go, you may enter the castle to search for the candles." Nahashon White’s voice carried across the courtyard, rich and commanding, but nobody was really listening anymore. Every pair of eyes was locked on the castle ahead—the towering stone fortress with its arched doorway, ominous yet inviting. The heavy double doors loomed like the gates to destiny, and each heartbeat seemed to echo their creak before even a hinge had moved. The contestants stood brimming with restless energy, muscles taut and ready. Even those who had hesitated earlier—nervous about the absurdity of the game—now felt the irresistible pull of competition. The thought of twenty candles waiting to be found inside those cavernous halls was enough to set adrenaline coursing through their veins. Alberto’s eyes slid sideways, landing on Eleanor. Her lips pressed together, and she clenched her fists. No matter what happens, I have to finish before Susan. The image bloomed in her m