Chapter 366

Benjamin tilted his chin up, arching a brow. "Did you really think the Rivers family would spill our secrets to outsiders? Know your place."

Zachary Montgomery glared, irritation flashing in his eyes. "Fine. I'll play along—she's your sister, then. Last time you beat me in that mobile game, it was pure luck. Let's see if you can handle an escape room without wetting yourself."

A smirk curled Benjamin's lips. "We'll see who's laughing by the end."

"Bring it," Zachary shot back before strutting away with his entourage, disappearing into the dimly lit corridor of the escape room venue.

Benjamin turned to Evelyn, adrenaline pumping through him. "Come on. Let's wipe that smug look off his face."

Evelyn crossed her arms. "I never agreed to this."

His expression darkened as he grabbed her wrist. "You're bailing now? Not happening."

Evelyn scoffed. Bailing? I was never in this ridiculous competition to begin with.

By the time Emily Sinclair and her friends caught up, the group had already gathered inside. Reluctantly, Evelyn followed, though her patience was thinning.

Zachary's group had already picked the most notorious theme—Asylum of Shadows. He smirked at Benjamin. "Unless you're too scared?"

Benjamin scoffed. "Please. I eat nightmares for breakfast."

Emily and her friends paled, huddling closer to Benjamin. "C-Can we stay with you?"

"Sure," he said, shrugging. Five against five—fair enough.

Zachary barked out a laugh. "You sure about that, ladies? Benjamin might just leave you behind when the first ghost pops out."

"Shut it, Zachary," Benjamin snapped. "Unlike you, I don't scream for my mommy."

Zachary's smirk faltered before he turned to the receptionist, whispering something that made her nod with a sly grin.

Just as they were about to enter, Emily frowned. "Wait—where's Evelyn?"

Benjamin whirled around. Damn it. She slipped away.

Zachary's grin widened. "Oh? Did your big sister abandon you? Can't handle it alone?"

Jaw tight, Benjamin shot back, "Worry about yourself. I don't need a babysitter."

He scanned the room one last time, but Evelyn was gone. A flicker of unease passed through him, but there was no backing out now.

Turning to Emily and the others, he forced confidence into his voice. "Relax. It's all fake. Stick close, and don't let them get in your head."

Emily's nerves settled slightly at his reassurance. She nodded, determination sparking in her eyes. "Let's do this."

The heavy doors creaked open, swallowing them into the darkness.