It is I, Stella, here to give you a super quick two-minute update before my super friends notice I’ve temporarily flitted off without them.

I’m in a closet.

That’s not a metaphor.

Whoa—these comments move lightning fast. Uh, hi, xxCreepsterxx.

That person wanted me to say hi. So, hi.

Thank you, by the way, for getting my last video to almost ten thousand views. I’ll host the Q&A later tonight when everyone is asleep so we won’t be interrupted.

Anyway, I’m happy to report that my first challenge is in the ghostly bag. Fun fact: Turns out, I’m a believer in the supernatural. Didn’t know that before I got here. It’s, uh, been a day.

While I can’t speak on if any other pair found some new traumas to contend with, in Jewel’s words we all aced our challenges and got some nifty presents in return. Next step: deciphering a nonsensical recipe one step at a time, but first? I need your help again.

I know, I know. I’m asking for a lot. I’ve heard it all my life, but have you seen Nicole?

I mean, come on. Come on. I gotta bring the goods to get the girl. Help me help myself.

So, during my first challenge, two words popped up that I didn’t understand. Harlow did, but she refuses to tell me. Which is just so like her, you know what I mean?

Do the words Warden or Siren mean anything to any of you?

[pauses]

I’m seeing Ethan … and … Olive? Okay, but how? I don’t understand.

[pauses]

Wait, the comments are moving too fast. I can’t—

[pauses]

Okay, stop! Everybody stop! Will someone please type a full sentence and explain? And then if you must, everyone else copy that one sentence so I can see it.

[pauses]

Huh.

Well, that’s interesting.

BEWARE THE IDES OF MARCH HARE

FRIDAY, 12:19 P.M.

Jewel had the inspired idea to host lunch outside. The air had warmed up, the misty morning long gone, and a partly cloudy sky stretched overhead. With the map leading the way, they walked as a group across the too-green grass toward Tea & Croquet.

“This feels like walking in an arboretum,” Nicole said. “I can’t believe all of this is someone’s backyard.”

“I block it out. Pretend like it’s not,” Francis said. “I’ve had a lot of practice. Growing up with rich friends really messes with your head when you have less than nothing.”

Stella said, “That sounds dreadful. I wouldn’t know, though. I’m not allowed to have friends.”

“That’s probably for the best,” Francis said.

“Lloyd and Diane would like you. So, therefore, I do not,” Stella said, light and airy. “It’s the principle of the thing, you see.”

Francis asked, “Who are they?”

“My parents,” Stella said.