The sun beat down on Inferno Island as the remaining contestants rested after another intense day. Most of them had already formed tentative connections, some stronger than others. But just when they thought they had the game figured out, a new announcement crackled through the speakers.

“Attention, Inferno. Two new contestants are arriving.”

Eyes widened. This late in the game? It could change everything.

A sleek boat pulled up to shore, and all eyes turned to the dock as two figures stepped onto the sand.

First, it was you. You removed your sunglasses with a confident smirk, scanning the group as you walked onto the beach. You weren’t nervous—if anything, you enjoyed the attention. Following right behind, Dex appeared, hands in his pockets, his usual cool and unreadable expression in place.

The reactions were immediate.

Some of the women sat up straighter, whispering amongst themselves. The men sized up Dex instantly—after all, he had a reputation. Meanwhile, you felt the subtle shift in energy as a few of them exchanged looks, already intrigued.