Matt seemed to be telling the truth when he said, "There's no other way for now."
The guests looked at each other and whined again before accepting their fate.
With a grave expression on his face, Matt said, "Before we leave, we need to examine everyone's luggages. Apart from clothes and toiletries, you can't bring anything else. Your phones, tablets, and all other electronic devices need to be handed over now."
The same terms had been discussed when they had signed the contract with the crew, so no one protested. Instead, they opened their bags and let the crew examine them. They handed over their electronic devices as well.
"Next, we'll give everyone a new phone each. The phones have the contact numbers of the other guests and the crew. We've created a WhatsApp group with all of you inside as well."
As the director spoke, the staff members were already giving out phones to everyone. Each phone had a sticker that had the name of each guest.
After ten minutes, the guests started to hike up the mountain with their luggages. Wendy, Maria, and Ana, who initially wore heels, had changed into flats.
They had packed a pair of flats to wear after arriving at the village. Yet, it was already time for them to make an appearance.
The three of them wore flats that matched their beautiful dresses. However, they couldn't be compared to sneakers.
Nigel and Thomas, ever the gentlemen, had taken the ladies' luggages for them.
On the other hand, Chad had politely asked Maria and Demi if they needed help with their bags, to which the two women rejected his offer.
George was carrying his own bag instead. He looked extremely relaxed as he gazed at the scenery during the walk.
Once again, Maria held Demi's arm and talked to her merrily as they hiked, as if they were old friends.
Seeing Demi and Maria holding their own bags, Ana held a hand out to take her luggage. "Thomas, let me carry my own bag."
She was afraid that the viewers would think she was spoiled.
After all, a show like this was meant to make the guests work hard. Most importantly, it was to establish a determined and humble persona for all their guests.
If Ana presented herself as a spoiled girl from the beginning, all her efforts would be in vain.
"This bag is way too heavy. You won't be able to carry it. I'll do it for you." Thomas didn't let go of her bag.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: A Second Life, A New Power