Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Noah jumped into the wide lagoon below.

He plugged his nose, curling in on himself to lessen the blow as he finally hit the water.

Noah forced his eyes open as he looked towards the ocean floor. Everything was blurring together as the salty water made seeing near impossible.

How exactly were they supposed to find anything without goggles. Noah didn’t understand it as he swam downwards, feeling around with his hand for anything metal. After coming up empty he quickly swam back to the surface as his lungs burned.

The water parted around him as he bobbed on the surface of the crystal clear lagoon. He inhaled deeply cherishing the fresh air. This was a stupid challenge why did Chris think this was a good idea.

Other competitors began jumping in around him as he swam to the large beach that snaked around a cliff. Noah hadn’t wanted to jump in but, Alejandro had insisted that everyone take their turn. Noah would’ve been content sitting to the side and watching them blindly reach around for a cheap trinket.

He cared about the competition but, not at the expense of his eyesight. Besides it was an advantage challenge, what was the point in trying so hard.

“Ohhh that’s gotta hurt..” Chris said from the top of the cliff as Heather did a belly flop onto the water. Noah had thankfully dragged himself out of the pool before small waves began to form on the surface of the water.

Now that he had failed he would have to trudge all the way back up the hill to do it all again. Aside from that he was freezing. The sun had felt nice for a little while but, it had hidden behind clouds casting the whole area in shade.

Noah groaned as he walked through the sandy ground. Shells pinched his feet and the cold nipped his skin even when he crossed his arms tightly.

Where were the clouds earlier when he was getting a sunburn on his face from standing around waiting for Chris to set up the challenge.

It was pointless to complain, he was in it to win it and he needed to tough it out.

Noah shook the sand off of his feet and walked up the steep cliff towards where the rest of his team was gathered.

“Ah Noah you’re just in time Tyler caught sight of something shiny near the coral reef..” Alejandro said almost daring Noah to punch him in the face.

Noah tried to protest before a sneeze suddenly overtook him.

“Bless you.” DJ said in the background.

“Thanks..” Noah said wiping his nose with his hand.

“Why don’t you go Al I don’t think I’ve seen you get wet yet” Noah challenged with an eyebrow raised.

“I was simply waiting for the right time my friend..once we know where the treasure is I can use my expert diving skills to retrieve it for our team..” he explained.

“Right..” Noah said stepping aside.

“Well if Tyler saw the chains then why don’t you go down and grab them I’m going to go sit down..” Noah declared ,sinking to the floor and propping his back up against a tree. His actions reminded him of the dodgeball challenge during the first season but, he wasn’t feeling up to fighting Alejandro.

Besides, his head was beginning to ache either from his blurry vision or the water sloshing around in his ears. The challenges had been getting more physically demanding lately and Noah wasn’t in the mood for it.

“Woah..in a shocking turn of events Gwen had recovered the prize..congratulations Team Amazon you will have an advantage in the next challenge!” Chris narrated.

Noah glanced down at the water below, seeing Gwen blubbering incoherently while electric eels wrapped around her. The pun didn’t go unnoticed by him.

“Hey dudes are you there all I see is blobs..” Tyler muttered reaching out for Alejandro who pushed him back.

“We are all right here my friend maybe try wiping your eyes off the salt water is impairing your vision.” He explained.

“Oh right that makes sense..” Tyler said pulling a towel from his neck and rubbing his eyes. It only served to worsen his pain as it was soaking wet.

“You were too slow..” Noah said glancing at Alejandro.

“I apologize..” Alejandro said through gritted teeth. The expression brought a smirk to Noah’s face. It was satisfying to see him struggle to maintain niceties.

“I guess we should head back to the plane while they treat Gwen, she didn’t look to good..” Noah said, hoisting himself up. At this point injury was just normal and everyone of them had gotten some sort of bump or bruise.

“Yes..that would be wise..” Alejandro muttered, directing Tyler in the right direction. Noah trailed behind them watching Team Amazon celebrate their victory.

The sun had slowly inched its way beyond the clouds, shining down on them. He had complained about it before but, now the light was making his head hurt.

The day couldn’t possibly be going any better.

••••••••••••••••

Owen had come back but, Izzy hadn’t.

Noah tried to get a straight answer but, he was a blubbering mess. Something about the military, Noah wasn’t particularly interested in opening that can of worms.

Aside from that they had won the challenge. Noah had seen Alejandro cheat but, he chose not to bring it up. He felt to physically exhausted to argue with him again. Noah was intent on making it further than last time and, taking on the most dangerous guy on the plane wasn’t exactly a bright idea.

He was content on enjoying the golden seats they had wrongfully won. He wasn’t exactly feeling guilty that the Amazons were taken down a peg.

The others seemed to have a similar idea, Owen was laying on the couch munching on some popcorn, Alejandro was writing something in a book and, Tyler was sobbing on the couch. Maybe they weren’t all on the exact same page but, Lindsey had made a sudden departure last challenge.

Noah couldn’t exactly blame him but, the sound was getting annoying. His head was already pounding and Tyler’s dramatic sobbing was only making it worse.

Noah reached in between his seat to grab a book. It was the only one he had managed to smuggle on the plane. Sure he had been over it a thousand times but, it was better than nothing. Staring into space was getting boring and, the pages usually helped him zone out when everyone was being annoying.

But, even the book wasn’t working when that sound kept ringing in his ears. Noah set his book aside and stood up, intent on giving Tyler a piece of his mind. The sudden action caused fatigue to overwhelm him.

Noah clutched onto the seat in front of him-legs shaking. He recognized the feeling. All day he had been ignoring it but, it was undeniable.

He was getting sick. That meant he was going home. The thought was scarier than having to deal with everyone’s antics while under the weather.

This was going to be a headache figuratively and literally.

“Hey little buddy do you want the rest of my popcorn..?” Owen asked from the couch next to him.

“I was saving it for Izzy but, I forgot that she’s not here anymore.” He said frowning.

Noah snapped his head towards him and gave him a dead look.

“I’m good thanks..” he said, laying back against the golden cushions to soothe his pounding head.

“Hey are you okay you look a little pale..” Owen questioned, tossing popcorn up in the air and catching it with his mouth.

“Fine..” Noah said apathetically. He quickly wiped the sweat that had beaded on his forehead.

There was no option he had to address this before it got worse. Noah recounted the various times his siblings had been sick and ran through a checklist in his head on how to deal with it.

The first thing was to drink lots of fluid. Noah reached for a water bottle that laid under his seat. While it was room temperature it would do the job. The sickly feeling in his throat made drowning the bottle difficult but, he managed- discarding the plastic in the cup holder next to him.

The next thing would have been eating something but, he wasn’t in the mood to stand. That brought him to the next step which was to rest. They had around a half a day until the next challenge so he had time to potentially sleep it off. Hopefully it was just a head cold and he would be back to normal when they landed at their next destination.

Noah pulled off his vest and jacket, reaching for a blanket folded on the seat next to him. A chill ran through his body as it was briefly exposed to the air vent that hung above him. Noah ignored the feeling, quickly wrapping himself in the thin fabric. He desperately wanted more warmth but, bundling up would only worsen the symptoms.

The fourth step would have been medicine but, Noah didn’t want anyone to know-especially Alejandro . That and he didn’t think Chris would be very lenient with handing out medicine.

This wasn’t going to take him out of the running. He knew he only had one more shot regardless and he wasn’t going to just hand it over.

He was going to fight for it, even if he did have the worst luck.

••••••••••••••••

Noah awoke from an uneasy sleep. His eyes felt crusted shut and, everything felt wrong.

Somehow he felt more tired. His thoughts had been a dark muddled mess of dreams and nightmares smushed together like a messed up mosaic. Noah was grateful to finally be aware even if the sensation cued him in to the fact that he wasn’t sleeping the cold off as quickly as he hoped.

There didn’t seem to be any light on in the place as he sat up from his recliner seat. What time was it anyways? He had probably gotten at least a couple hours before being jostled awake by turbulence. It definitely felt like it.

Noah squinted his eyes to glance around the room. Owen was snoring softly on the couch, Tyler was on the floor and, Alejandro was somewhere around. Noah didn’t feel like moving to find out.

He reached for another bottle of water, realizing his nose was leaking.

Of course things had only gotten worse, his nose hadn’t been running before. Noah glanced around the darkened room before spotting Tyler’s box of tissues on the table next to the couch.

There was no way he was going back to sleep without blowing his nose but, the thought of standing made his head spin.

Noah sighed and, grabbed onto the thin sheet tightly to hoist himself upwards. The motion caused his feet to shake but, he planted himself firmly- ignoring his throbbing head.

Noah trudged forward, barely lifting his feet off the ground, before snatching a tissue out of the multicolored box. The material was thin and reminded him of toilet paper. Leave it to Chris to cheap out on tissues. Noah pressed the paper to his nose and tried his best to relive the pressure that had built up in his head.

That was when a sound caught him off guard.

Noah crumbled up the tissue and glanced over at the small light that had flickered on from where the sound emanated.

“Noah?” Alejandro questioned staring at him with surprise written all over his face.

“Are you alright you look very pale..” he asked.

Noah jammed the tissue into the trash before glaring at him.

“I’m f-“ he began before letting out another sneeze. Noah quickly reached for another tissue.

“Fine..” he finished quickly. If Alejandro discovered that he was sick it would be a one way trip to the elimination room. That meant he needed to escape the conversation before his credibility dipped even further.

That was when the plane began rocking back and forth like a swing. Noah’s feet buckled, forcing him to grab onto the table to center himself. So much for being believable he could barely stand up straight.

“Please allow me..” Alejandro said, stepping closer and placing the back of his hand to Noah’s forehead.

“You’re burning up..” he said like it wasn’t obvious from the sweat dripping down his face. The smug look on his face was no comfort either.

“Maybe you should check your temperature?” He suggested.

“I’m not sick so don’t worry about it..” Noah said defensively. So much for playing koi Alejandro wasn’t an idiot, he knew.

“There’s no need to hide your illness..you are my teammates and I will not allow you to continue without assistance..” Alejandro said smoothly, picking up the box of tissue with one hand and placing his other hand on Noah’s back.

Noah blinked and let Alejandro guide him along. He was too exhausted to protest further he just wanted to go back to sleep.

“Sit..” Alejandro coached setting the tissues down next to him.

Noah complied begrudgingly.

“It’s just a cold I can deal with it..” he said in a small voice. It was just routine to try one more hopeless attempt at sending him away. It obviously wasn’t successful.

“But, you may get over it faster if you have someone looking out for you..” Alejandro said with his eyebrow raised.

Noah nearly laughed at Alejandro’s offer. He could see manipulation from a mile away. What exactly was his goal here?

“Pft..sure I saw you cheat during the final challenge I know your game..” Noah rambled. He wasn’t supposed to be saying any of it but, the words spilled out before he could stop them.

“Besides it’s a cold, it’s infectious..you don’t want to risk getting sick..then you’ll loose the shot at the million..” Noah argued, proud of himself for actually coming up with a logical argument.

“I have a very resilient immune system..it’s a family trait..” Alejandro rebuked with a smirk that almost excused his terrible reasoning. Noah knew why he was so set on helping him. He decided to shut up before he told Alejandro that too.

“And I am appalled that you think I don’t want what’s best for the team..”Alejandro continued in mock offense.

“Listen my head feels like it’s going to be split in two so if you don’t mind I’m going back to sleep..” Noah explained in a whisper feeling his eyes growing heavy. He was just so tired he felt like a walking zombie.

“Sleep my friend I will have some medicine to treat this illness in the morning.” He said with determination. Noah wondered what exactly he wanted from him. His trust? A favor?

Under normal circumstances Noah would have bounced around a couple more ideas in his head but, he was feeling lethargic. His entire body felt uncomfortable and no matter how many times he shifted that fact wouldn’t change.

“Do what you want..” he finally said, holding the blanket around him and shutting his eyes tight. They felt extremely heavy but, sleep wasn’t prompted. His body felt like it was betraying him as fire raged right under his skin.

Alejandro mumbled a response before standing up and walking towards his own seat.

Noah soon forgot all about him as his breathing calmed and his head relaxed onto the seats cushion.

This time sleeping would work.

It had to be better than dealing with the constant headache.

It was foolish to hope.

••••••••••••••••

The next time he awoke sunlight was streaming through the plane windows.

The light was blinding, Noah had to squint the second his eyes opened.

“Ugh..” he muttered sitting up and clutching his head which had suddenly thrown him for a loop.

“Little buddy how are you feeling?..” Owen said, popping up behind his chair.

“Dude don’t do that..” Noah said startled by his sudden appearance.

“I feel like hell..” he grumbled, reaching for a tissue and attempting to blow his nose yet again.

“I’m so sorry I should have realized you were sick yesterday..” he said frowning.

“I didn’t want anyone to know..and I didn’t want to be eliminated because of some stupid illness..” Noah admitted.

“Oh I’m sure Chris won’t take you out of the show just because you have a little cold.” Owen tried to comfort.

“It’s not Chris I’m worried about..” Noah muttered under his breath. Owen didn’t need to know about his suspicions. At least not yet.

“Well since I’m keeping an eye on you do you need anything Al said you should probably drink some water and eat something there’s plenty of options over here.” He said happily. So it was Alejandro that had sent someone to babysit him, typical.

“I’ll be fine I just need to sleep it off.” Noah said. He didn’t need help it was a head cold, that was it.

“Are you sure my mom always made this killer chicken soup whenever I got sick it always seemed to help..I think I remember the recipe I could make you some..” Owen said sounding like he had even more energy than the day prior.

Noah wanted to protest but the offer would give him some peace and quiet. Along with that he knew he needed to eat something if the illness really wasn’t going away.

“Actually that would be nice..” he said trying to muster up a small smile.

“You should probably stay away from me anyways..” Noah said before devolving into a coughing fit. The timing was perfect even if he really was congested.

“Alright leave it to me I’ll go get the ingredients, I’m sure Al will be back in a little while..” Owen said with a wide smile.

“Okay..” Noah said watching him walk away with a pep in his step.

Now he was back to waiting. With the peace and quiet he didn’t mind. His headache had reduced to a dull throbbing in the back of his mind.

It was tolerable. Hopefully enough that he could avoid it during the next challenge.

His time was almost up, he just had to face the music.

••••••••••••••••

“I assure you it will only be an additional day.” Alejandro said, words dripping with false sincerity.

Chris looked hesitant.

“Alright..you know what..I like you Al you make the show interesting so I’ll do it..” Chris said returning to a smile. Alejandro hated his smile, it was dripping in falsities. He wouldn’t be surprised if Chris truly had no feelings as no matter what the scene in front of him a wide grin was always on his face. It was unsettling. That and it made Chris nearly impossible to get any kind of reading from. Was he doing this because he wanted them fit enough for his next psychotic challenge or was it simply a way to make his show more interesting. Whatever the reason Alejandro knew he likely didn’t sway Chris in any meaningful way.

“Gracias..” Alejandro said through gritted teeth. This was all so much work. And for what? For the team? For Noah?

Neither option was true. The truth was that helping his fellow teammate would be sure to win him brownie points when the teams finally split. The more allies he had the better, especially since Noah seemed to have a glance behind the curtain of his polite façade. He had said as much last night.

“Oh one more thing..” Chris said before Alejandro even had a chance to turn away.

“I’m going to need you to make this interesting. I need some new content for an episode and watching everyone sit around doesn’t exactly boost the viewership.” He said flashing a sadistic smile.

“Sí of course .” Alejandro said returning the smile with a fake one of his own.

“I knew I made the right call bringing you on Al.” Chris said patting him on the back before turning to walk towards his private quarters.

Alejandro watched him leave with a scowl planted on his face. If Chris called him Al one more time he knew he might just loose it. It was bad enough when Jóse did it but, hearing Chris say it like he had no knowledge of his actual name pissed him off. Alejandro would be happy to bid goodbye to him once he won the million.

The plane rocked softly as Alejandro treaded back through the metal hallway. The next item on his to-do list was borrowing some cold medicine. It was vital to fast track Noah’s recovery process before Chris got impatient. Alejandro doubted he could convince Chris to give him another day to fix things.

“Ay..” Alejandro grumbled as he reached a small door with a cross on the front. He doubted anyone , aside from Chris, even knew it existed. That was why it was the prefect place to snoop around for what he needed.

It had been pure happenstance that he stumbled across the room. It was nestled away in a quiet area of the plane near the cargo hold. The instant he saw the sign in the door an idea formed in his mind. A couple lock picks later and he began using the supplies contained in it to his advantage. No more of his bruises or scrapes got ignored, he was always physically ready while the others were forced to resort to strange remedies. It was an arrangement he felt suited him quite nicely.

Alejandro creaked open the metal door and flipped the light switch. The colors of the room became more vibrant, spilling out like a water painting. The walls were tightly packed with supplies leaving little room for movement.

He bypassed most of the equipment, heading straight for the back. During his time in the room he had taken a vague note of where everything was for future use. It surprised him how well stocked the room was since it seemed like the rest of the plane was less than up to code. Alejandro supposed it was probably because so few people used it.

“Perfecto.” Alejandro said with a smirk as his eyes narrowed on a shelf. He picked up an unmarked bottled that laid on it. It was cold medicine, at least according to his documentation of the room.

He quickly slipped it into his pocket, fixing any bottles he may have touched so the room looked undisturbed. Alejandro wasn’t worried that Chris would find him snooping around but, it was better safe than sorry- especially with a million dollars on the line.

Alejandro flipped the light switch once again and shut the door carefully. It creaked loudly on its hinges but, the sound fell on deaf ears. Only the tiny echo of footsteps could be heard as he walked back to the first class cabin.

The area was silent, surprisingly. Owen must have deserted his assigned task, Alejandro wasn’t surprised. He couldn’t rely on anyone other than himself.

“Who’s there…?” A hushed voice called- Noah. His head popped up above one of the seats. It looked like he was having trouble even keeping his body upwards.

“Ah Noah.. I have the medicine that I promised..” he said with his patented grin.

“Where did you get that..? I doubt Chris would just hand some over.” Noah said before devolving into a coughing fit. The way he wheezed for air afterwords made Alejandro the slightest bit worried. He had no problem using people to his own benefit but, he wasn’t a sociopath.

“That’s neither here nor there my friend all that matters is I got it.” Alejandro said being as vague as possible. If he attempted to lie Noah would only shoot it down.

Noah glared at him as a shiver ran through his body.

“Rest my friend I will pour a dose for you to take.” Alejandro said pressing open the bottle after removing the cup on top of it.

“Just to let you know I talked Chris into giving you an extra day to recover.” Alejandro said with a victorious smile. Hopefully his willingness to help would at least deter Noah from growing to suspicious of his intent.

“Thanks..but, I’ll be fine in fact I think I’m feeling better already.” He said snatching the medicine from Alejandro’s outstretched hand and drowning it. Alejandro noticed the way his body relaxed. Clearly he was worried about the challenge.

“Isn’t it best to have the most time possible?” He questioned.

“Besides you need to take this until the symptoms clear..according to the instructions every four hours.” He explained , squinting his eyes at the fine print.

“Just in case I guess..” Noah said, narrowing his eyes at the light that shined down from above.

“How are you feeling.. honestly?” Alejandro asked more than a little bit skeptical that he was beginning to recover.

“Honestly? I feel like crap ..” he said sounding angry.

“I just want to sleep this off but, everyone keeps bothering me.” He said furrowing his brow as a coughing fit overtook him once again. He reached for a tissue and quickly blew into it.

Noah grumbled something under his breath before wrapping his blanket tightly around himself.

“This sucks.” He said in a raspy voice.

“It’s only going to get worse if you overexert yourself..take a deep breath my friend.”Alejandro coached calmly.

Noah for once listened to him. He inhaled shakily and exhaled out of his mouth. It was progress. Progress towards gaining his trust that is.

“Sorry..I guess” He said turning to face Alejandro.

“Está bien..” Alejandro said failing to hide the smile that grew on his face. He had him. It was almost too easy.

“I assure you I would act the same way..” He comforted. He was in his element now, the words were weaving together like a quilt.

“I doubt that.. I’ve rarely seen you without that dumb smile on your face..” Noah said playfully before his eyes shifted to the side.

Then his expression changed. It was wise not to get cocky Noah was still distrustful, it was only natural.

Alejandro was thinking up a response that would get things back on track when Owen burst through the curtain carrying a small ceramic bowl.

“Lunch is served!” Owen called, picking up the pace.

Alejandro sidestepped him before soup could cover his favorite red shirt. Maybe it was his only red shirt but, no one could resist the way the color contrasted his features.

“Dude slow down..” Noah said at a lower volume than normal. He already looked tired of dealing with Owen’s shenanigans. Alejandro could relate.

“Sorry I had to run before Chef found me …apparently the kitchen isn’t self service.” He said chuckling nervously before placing the bowl down in front of Noah.

He eyed it suspiciously, taking a spoon and sipping the mixture carefully. Alejandro watched him intently before shaking his head.

What was he doing?

Now that Owen was back he had to stall his plan. Nothing else as going to get done while he was there so why did he want to continue the conversation with Noah so bad? He was no different than anyone else, another pawn to step on. A rather feisty pawn.

“Excuse me gentlemen I am going to the confessionals..” Alejandro declared forcefully. He would have to continue later. Maybe when Noah’s next dose was due. He had purposely slipped the medication back into his pocket when Owen arrived. It meant that if Noah wanted to recover he had to find him.

The dependence would work in his favor. Now he had something to hang over his head.

Alejandro smiled as he brushed past both of them, stalking away as the plane continued to drift in the air.

Never mind the interruption his plan would work.

It would end when he got all of his teammates to finally listen to him.

••••••••••••••••

Noah huddled over the camera. A tissue was clutched in his hand as he sneezed.

“I’m sick..” he deadpanned tossing the tissue in the trash.

“It sucks..” he continued wiping his nose once again as it continued to leak.

“I’ve tried eating, I’ve tried getting rest and I’m even taking some medication Alejandro supposedly ‘found’..I don’t trust the guy but, I want to get back in the competition..” Noah said wincing as he moved.

“Speaking of Alejandro he’s been weirdly nice..I see the guy cheating the other day and all of a sudden he’s acting like my mother ..I don’t know he probably wants something..” Noah said with narrow eyes.

“Or he’s suspicious ..I did say some things things last night..” Noah sighed before transitioning into another coughing fit.

“This is horrible ..I can’t breathe out of my nose my head is pounding and, my throat feels like it’s about to close up..” Noah complained.

“Whatever it doesn’t matter I caught a glance at the label of the medicine Al gave me..it should work in the next couple hours if he didn’t swap bottles..” Noah muttered thinking deeply for a moment.

“I wish I could take his generosity at face value..I want to I guess it’s nice not being in a constant sparring match with him but, this won’t last. Once the competition is back on I bet he’s going back to normal..I will too if that’s the case.” Noah explained before sneezing again.

“I should probably go lay down..” Noah mumbled as his eyes began to droop.

……….

“My job is done for the moment so I suppose I have nothing better to do..” Alejandro explained leaning on his knees with both hands outstretched.

“It’s a slow process but, I think by the time we make it to the next challenge Noah will finally trust me..”

“I know it was foolish of me to cheat so openly but, Team Victory needed to go.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“They served there purpose and if I can’t have DJ then nobody can..besides once the rest of my team understands I’m in charge things will go a lot smoother. Owen and Tyler aren’t leaders but, Noah I’m not sure.” Alejandro said growing frustrated.

“He doesn’t do anything..he just sits in the background with his stupid jokes and yet he always knows exactly what I’m thinking..it’s like he’s to lazy to do anything about it..” Alejandro said taking a deep breath.

“This delay in the competition couldn’t have been more perfect..once I help him recover he’ll owe me and then it’s game over..no more wild cards.”

“Besides I rather enjoy his company..compared to the others anyways.” He admitted as a small smirk grew on his face.

“Chris might as well just hand me the million..I’ll give him his drama as long as everything goes well.” Alejandro said arrogantly.

No one else had even come close to stopping him. Even with his mess ups the further he got in the game the less it mattered- as long as no one in the competition was aware of his trickery.

Why would this time be any different?

Chapter Text

Noah yawned. It didn’t help anything as he already knew he was exhausted. He had felt groggy all day and even sleeping did nothing to deter the feeling.

The only positive thing to happen was his nostrils clearing up. Owen’s soup was no joke, the steam did wonders while the soup itself filled him with warmth. He didn’t feel better but, he didn’t feel any worse either.

For the past couple hours he had been resting in the same seat staring at the headrest in front of him. Owen had checked up on him every thirty minutes or so but, his answer remained the same.

‘I’m fine.’

It was to much of a hassle to explain how much being conscious was sucking. It was a constant cycle of discomfort. Sit still until he had to cough, move and his head began to hurt, then try to sit back down and ignore the itch in his throat until the cycle started all over again. It was a fun way to spend the day.

When the next round of coughing assaulted him Noah decided that he had finally had enough. He forced himself to sit up, ignoring the way his head began to sting. He needed to do something.

That something in question was taking a second dose of medication. He couldn’t see a clock but, clearly one dose wasn’t enough.

Noah glanced around his seat for the unmarked bottle. The last place he had seen it was when Alejandro was bothering him. The eel had probably taken it. That sounded like him. Noah wanted to facepalm.

“Dude..” Noah rasped, standing up in the aisle to get Owned attention. This was all Alejandro’s fault, him and his stupid manipulation. He wasn’t in the mood.

“Oh little buddy you should sit back down..” Owen said keeping his distance but, looking worried.

“I’ll sit in a second do you know where Al is he has the cold medicine..” Noah said, failing to hide his annoyance.

“Oh I dont know but, I could go find him …I bet he’s just finishing up lunch.” Owen said.

“Wait it’s the afternoon already?” Noah questioned. It felt like he had just woken up.

“Yeah you were sleeping for a while so I just let you be .” Owen said sheepishly.

“Right..” Noah said trailing off. It was hard to focus with the bright first class lights.

“Just find Alejandro..please.” He said.

“Okay you got it!!” Owen yelled louder than he probably intended to.

Noah scrunched up his face in pain.

“Uh..sorry I’ll just go..” Owen said sheepishly before brushing past the curtain that divided first class from the rest of the plane.

Without another word Noah trudged back to his seat which didn’t particularly invoke a lot of joy. The small conversation had taken a lot out of him and he just felt like going back to sleep.

Getting sick was always a tedious affair. It involved relying on others when Noah liked to keep to himself. Being coddled was more humiliating than helpful and left him feeling worse. He didn’t want to rely on Alejandro but, if he wanted the discomfort to go away he had to trust that he had his best interests at heart. The thought made him laugh.

Trust Alejandro? That had worked out so well for everyone else. If he had to play defense he would, this was a strictly transactional trade. Alejandro had made his move and now Noah was merely pretending to give in. It wasn’t that he wasn’t given another option. He could have dealt with the sickness but, then he would be letting his team down. He wasn’t going to make that mistake again, alliances were the most important part of total drama-vital to the shows intricate workings. Like it or not Noah knew he needed friends to survive.

“This sucks..” Noah muttered to himself, body suddenly racked with coughs. It felt like he was choking until the feeling finally subsided. Noah took deep breaths suddenly aware of a noise coming from above him.

“Tell me about it..” A voice said softly. It was coming from the vents. Noah could think of only one person who would be small enough to fit.

“Don’t you have better things to do than stalking people..I thought that was Sierra's job..” Noah deadpanned in a raspy voice. He wondered vaguely how well the sarcasm was conveyed.

“I wasn’t stalking anyone I swear.. I’ve been in here awhile and I couldn’t help but, hear you..I guess I forgot I was supposed to be hiding..” Cody rambled, popping his head out of a vent cover.

“You scared me..” Noah said with annoyance.

“Sorry..but, Uh are you alright that cough sounded pretty bad..” Cody asked observing his face with concern.

“It’s nothing just a little head cold.” Noah said wrinkling his face slightly to prevent a sneeze from coming. He had just cleared his nose up why was it all of a sudden coming back.

“Okay..that doesn’t happen to be the reason Chris delayed the challenge right?” Cody asked only to confirm what he already knew.

“You can thank Al for that he wants all of us on Team Chris is Really Really Really Really Hot to be ready for the next challenge.” Noah said rolling his eyes and drawing out their team name. It was important to keep up the charade, no matter how much relief he had felt at the news.

“O-oh..at least he cares I’m stuck with the girls they’re always gossiping and leaving me out of it.” He said frowning.

“You are part of Team Amazon what did you expect..?” Noah asked.

“I didn’t choose that name.” Cody said sourly.

“At least yours makes sense..” Noah said.

“Regardless… I’m guessing you aren’t in the vents because you want to be.” Noah commented. He didn’t feel in the mood for conversation but, he didn’t see a viable way out. Sure he could just shut him down quickly but, that was harsh and they already had a rocky history for barely even speaking. Noah didn’t particularly feel like drudging up old memories. They should stay dead and buried on live television for everyone to rewatch to their hearts content. The sudden thought made him shift uncomfortably as he stared into Cody’s eyes. He needed to escape this conversation he was to sick to deal with this. He had been avoiding Cody for that exact reason. That and he was annoying.

“No I’m not.. Sierra wanted me to join her at lunch but, I crawled in here..” he said, eyes glancing around like a deer in headlights.

He was afraid, that made what he was about to do easier.

“You do know that lunch ended an hour ago right?” Noah said, bluffing through his teeth. His sense of time was thrown off by being in a plane and drifting in and out of consciousness. He didn’t have a clue but, Cody didn’t either.

“R-really..” he stuttered out, Noah could see his head withdraw slightly back into the metal tube.

“Yeah I’m just waiting on Al to get back it should be any second..” Noah said smoothly before a sneeze overtook him. Cody visibly ducked even as the sound was directed away from him. Noah found an even easier approach to get him to go away.

“Sorry my nose has been leaking for a while just a symptom I guess..” he said grabbing a tissue and blowing his nose dramatically. He crumpled up the paper and tossed it in the direction of the trash can. It just so happened to be directly below Cody. The paper ball flew, nearly touching him before landing perfectly in the trash can. That was definitely a lucky shot.

“Well..uh..” He began. Noah raised an eyebrow as he retreated even further back into the vent.

“I’ll let you get some sleep or something I think I hear someone coming..” he said, Noah could tell he was making up excuses.

“Oh alright we’ll see you la-“ Noah began before coughing into his arm. He couldn’t hide the smirk that grew on his face when Cody finally disappeared. Finally he could be rid of his legacy on the first season of total drama- at least for the time being.

Noah relaxed back into his seat when another voice decided to throw his head for a loop.

“That was quite manipulative my friend.” The way the voice oozed with an accent cued Noah into exactly who it was. Not that he wouldn’t have been able to guess by the looming shadows that was cast over him.

“Have you heard of this thing called a greeting..maybe you should try it some time to act less like a serial killer..” Noah deadpanned, leaning his head against his hand as a new wave of pain ran through him.

“And before you say anything else it’s called knowing how to read people..besides I don’t use it like y-“ he began before his mouth stopped moving. He had finally turned to stare at Alejandro, he finally noticed the malice behind his eyes. He wasn’t any friend of his and admitting that he knew his tricks would be like feeding blood to a shark.

A look of confusion crossed Alejandro’s features as Noah narrowed his eyes.

“It doesn’t matter..” he scowled, wincing as he turned away. There really was no winning with his headache. Screw that it was a full on migraine. Why was one little cold being such a pain.

“I see you are not feeling much better, it is a good thing I came when I did.” Alejandro said. He sounded like he had just saved Noah’s life. He couldn’t even see the guy and he knew exactly the expression that would be waiting. He could picture Alejandro’s face in his mind clearly, it was a look of victory.

He would wipe that smug look off his face eventually. After he wasn’t dealing with a 40 C temperature.

“Yeah.” Noah breathed, keeping his eyes locked on the carpet. It was to much effort trying to look up, the lights only hurt his eyes.

“Well I have not heard the magic word my friend..” Alejandro said. Noah wanted to punch him in the face and make him understand just how much his head hurt.

“Por favor..” Noah said, voice grating. Alejandro was too pretty to have this annoying of a personality.

“Sabelotodo..”Alejandro muttered before forking over the bottle. Noah glanced up at him long enough for Alejandro to see his smirk.

“Gracias.” Noah said wiping the sweat from his forehead and removing the cap with his now shaky hands. Talking had taken a lot out of him, being sick sucked.

Noah tried to focus on the bottle as he eyeballed the dose Alejandro had poured earlier. It wasn’t perfect but, he figured the more the better. Anything to get him up and moving, away from Alejandro’s manipulation. He still wasn’t sure what to do about that.

“Sí anything to help one of my teammates recover.” Alejandro said almost sounding cold the way his phrasing seemed so impersonal. Noah wondered why it annoyed him so much that Alejandro wasn’t being specific. He didn’t want to be singled out if he wanted to last longer than last time. He had already beaten his record from the last season,one little cold wasn’t going to stop his streak. One hot Spanish guy stereotype wasn’t going to stop him either.

Why did he keep calling him hot? It wasn’t helping, in fact if Alejandro could read his thoughts it would probably boost his ego.

Noah sighed as he pinched his nose and drank the liquid. He knew it was flavorless but, the texture was uncomfortable and nearly made him gag.

“This better work.” Noah said, still annoyed that Alejandro had made him go through all the extra steps just to get some medicine.

“I think you meant to say thank you Alejandro you are truly the most generous and caring person on my team..” Alejandro said almost begging Noah for a sarcastic remark.

“Humble too.” Noah snapped back, bundling himself tighter in his blanket as a breeze ran through the cabin. It would take a while for the medicine to kick in, that meant he was exposed to Alejandro’s ‘help’ for longer than he needed to be. Maybe if he fell asleep he would finally be left alone. Noah wanted to try but, his eyes felt glued open.

“That is the most important trait my friend.” Alejandro finally responded.

Noah only rolled his eyes in response. It was nearly impossible to win against Alejandro. He tried too hard at everything. Noah wasn’t lazy he was just apathetic. Where Alejandro saw a challenge Noah saw a means of survival. Be the snappy kid with the one liners or be nobody at all.

“Tell me the truth..how bad is it I see you’re shaking.” Alejandro asked with concern lacing his voice. Noah had no comment on whether it was genuine or not.

“I’m fine.” Noah said, the lie rolled off his tongue easily. It was a generic response that he doubted anybody believed but, it was all he felt like saying.

Alejandro gave him a look like a parent scolding a child. Noah hated how he felt like the stubborn one. Maybe it would be best to just give in, then he would go away.

“The lights hitting my eyes could you turn it off?” Noah finally asked, hesitant as Alejandro smiled. He had given in, only a little but, by Alejandro’s standards that was like throwing in the towel. Noah just felt so tired. He could only watch Alejandro walk towards the far end of the cabin. His pace was even, almost soothing as Noah reclined back in his chair. He needed to sleep away all the bad feelings. He could do it.

Noah vaguely saw a blur of red standing over him once the lights were flicked off. Alejandro’s hand felt his forehead for a moment before another display of rhythmic tapping sounded around him.

A cold sensation was suddenly set over his head. Noah forced his hand to move towards the source, finding a damp rag.

“This should help you’re burning up my friend.” Alejandro said carefully, Noah was grateful.

“M’ fine..great..I can just sleep it off..” Noah muttered, barely making any effort to move his lips.

“I will stay and watch over you.” Noah could have sworn he heard Alejandro say.

He was seriously screwed when he woke up.

Alejandro reached over him and shut the window, the last source of light next to him. The room was now a mellow color of darker shades that didn’t make his head pound as terribly.

Noah wanted to focus on Alejandro’s movements but, he also needed to sleep. He curled in on himself, shifting his position to allow the blanket to cover more square feet. The sickly feeling in his throat made him wheeze as if something blocked his airway. Even with every obstacle he still found his breathing slowing, his eyes shutting and, his grip on the medicine bottle loosening- he had made sure not to let it out of his sight.

The last thing he heard was the sound of the bottle hitting the carpeted floor.

Then he was gone, at least until his body decided to torture him further.

••••••••••••••••

Noah jolted upwards, removing the rag from his forehead and glancing around. Spots clouded his vision as he adjusted to the rooms lower lighting.

What time was it this time? At least his head was no longer pounding. The medicine was finally working, maybe the rag had helped too.

The cabin looked empty, aside from Alejandro who was passed out on the table near him. Noah took a sigh of relief. It was one less thing to deal with, although it was strange that Owen and Tyler were still no where in sight. Maybe it was dinner time? His sense of time had been lost in his feverish haze.

The thought of food suddenly made Noah’s stomach grumble. He wasn’t hungry yet he felt weak. It was annoying. Noah shoved the blanket off of his torso and stood up, pulling his white sleeves down until they nearly covered his hands. The thin fabric did nothing to help the goosebumps that inevitably went up his arms. The sickly feeling wasn’t gone but, it had lessened slightly. That didn’t stop his legs from buckling as he treaded forward, keeping one arm on the seat.

He had to eat something, anything really. He knew exactly what he wanted when his eyes landed on a table in the far corner of first class. It must have been placed there hours before but, the cart was still laid out with fruits and other snacks on golden platters. Chris really went all out on the winners. Noah decided that everything he did wasn’t all bad. Just most of it.

One step after another Noah finally got into a steady pace until he reached the table. His eyes scanned the options before he reached for a granola bar. It tasted stale as he bit into it but, he didn't care.

Noah didn’t stop until he finished the entire thing, crumbling up the wrapper with shaky hands. He was too focused to realize that Alejandro’s soft snores were no longer filling the cabin.

“I see you are feeling better.” He began. Noah turned around to see him stretching, a casual smirk remained to taunt him.

“A bit.” Noah said shoving up his sleeves before Alejandro commented on his state of being.

“I guess the medicine helped...” He said, knowing it was exactly what Alejandro wanted to hear. Instead of a smile Noah noticed his expression faltered for a moment, like he had just remembered something. In fact he looked a bit out of it, probably because he had just woken up.

Noah decided it was time to press for information. If only to satisfy his curiosity and, one up Alejandro. The more knowledge he gathered the better.

“Hey..uh how did you get the medicine anyways I doubt Chris just kept some lying around..and he’s too sadistic to just give it to you..” Noah asked casually. He couldn’t repress the smile that worked its way onto his face as Alejandro tried to formulate a response.

“Ah..I suppose I should inform you..I ‘borrowed’ it from the nurses station near the back of the plane.” He said carefully before a smile returned to his face.

“The nurses station? I didn’t even know Chris had the budget for that.” Noah said slowly inching back to his seat. Standing was simply too much work. His body still felt weak from the constant stress the virus was putting on it.

“It is most likely for insurance reasons..” Alejandro said, shutting down. Noah could tell by the look on his face that he wouldn’t be getting any more information. Clearly there was more truth that he wasn’t getting.

Noah opened his mouth to backtrack when he suddenly fell into a coughing fit. How convenient. This time it felt worse as he bent over, wheezing to catch his breath.

“Are you okay my friend?” Alejandro asked, rushing over to him.

Noah would have protested further if he wasn’t gasping for air. He hated colds.

“Fine…..”he breathed.

“I’m fine..” he said.

“Don’t worry I’m sure I’ll get better and then are team will be back to being mediocre soon enough.” Noah quipped to ignore the way every word strained his throat. It was meant to be a throwaway line but, it seemed like Alejandro was taking his sentiments seriously. Noah didn’t mind changing the topic, he didn’t want Alejandro to think he was suspicious of him. That was dangerous.

“Nonsense I am sure after this we will only be stronger.. team Amazon will not stand in my- our way.” He corrected with a smile. Alejandro’s quick recovery annoyed him. He was too smooth, too perfect. It was unfair.

Noah attempted to clear his throat before his body decided to change tactics and he sneezed. How wonderful, maybe it was a good thing he hadn’t moved the tissues. At least his head wasn’t clouded, in fact the headache he once had had been reduced to a dull throbbing in the back of his mind. It was much needed relief.

“I’m fine..this time..” Noah said blowing his nose. Now it was just humiliating, he hated the way Alejandro was staring at him with pity. Like he was weak. Admittedly he did feel small but, it wasn’t by choice.

“Maybe I spoke too soon about your recovery…” Alejandro said with an eyebrow raised.

“How do you think you even got sick in the first place my friend?” Alejandro asked, it was like he was genuinely curious, like he wanted to hold a conversation with him. Why was he even bothering?

“I don’t know..I can’t see at a microscopic level..” Noah responded. Whatever he wanted he wasn’t going to play games. He felt miserable enough without being outwitted by the eel.

When Alejandro didn’t respond to his sarcastic remark Noah only got more annoyed.

“It could have been anything..” he said honestly. Alejandro wanted an answer he would get one. Noah was done, he just wanted to stop thinking so much.

“The ventilation in here is probably blowing mold out onto us, that water during the last challenge definitely wasn’t tested for purity and, the numerous other locations we visited weren’t exactly sanitary…New York especially.”Noah deadpanned.

“Ah… it was the luck of the draw..” he said.

“Sure..guess I should buy a lottery ticket when we get home..” Noah snapped. It slipped out but, he was used to being a one liner machine. It wasn’t like the line was out of character.

“You are quite charming when you want to be..” Alejandro rebuked with a scowl, slowly slinking back to his seat across from him. His sarcasm was actually having its desired effect, repelling people.

“Glad you get it..” Noah said clearing his throat again. Maybe he needed to drink more water, he eyed a water bottle under his seat as Alejandro continued talking. He was persistent- Noah would give him that.

“Well we need to be at are strongest once the competition is back on..” he said seriously.

Noah nearly laughed as he chugged the bottle of water trademarked with Chris’ face. “Good luck with that, no offense to Owen or Tyler but, I don’t think any of us will be winning any medals anytime soon for team work..” he said.

“Look…you forgot me in New York, Izzy almost helped the other team in Egypt and let’s not forget you wouldn’t get your hair wet this last challenge.” Noah said with a small smirk.

“But, what about the commercial in Japan or the challenge in France..” he argued with an eyebrow raised.

“Even a broken clock is right twice a day..” Noah quipped, squishing the water bottle and placing it neatly in the trash can next to his seat. It was therapeutic to crush Chris’ face. Now he just needed an Alejandro version.

“Just because we suck as a team doesn’t mean we can’t win I’m just stating facts..” Noah finally clarified, meeting Alejandro’s gaze with tired eyes.

“I do want to win..” he continued in case Alejandro wasn’t aware. He knew that he wouldn’t be voted the most driven in the competition but, he had always had hope. Hope that was hidden behind a wall of apathy.

“I don’t doubt you.” Alejandro said with a blank expression. At least he understood.

“Regardless I think it is wise that we all stick together..isn’t it better to have allies than enemies?” He asked. Noah only crossed his arms.

“I don’t see much of a difference the second we lose a challenge everyone turns on each other..” Noah said furrowing his brow. The topic was getting a little to real for comfort.

“It doesn’t really matter..” he said suddenly. Had Alejandro caught the way he was glaring at him? Noah wanted to punch himself in the arm. Talking with Alejandro was almost never helpful, getting friendly with him was an easy way to accidentally reveal his suspicions. Even if he managed to befriend him then what? Become his yes man, Noah wasn’t particularly interested in that. Noah wasn’t sure if Alejandro had caught the message, he seemed to be trying a little to hard to get on his good side. Why was he bothering?

“You think a lot harder than I gave you credit for..” Alejandro said like he was surprised.

“Glad I’m up to your standards..” Noah said cringing at the way his voice squeaked.

“I mean I can actually have an intelligent conversation with you..no offense given to Owen or Tyler but, they make…rather dull company.” He said, words rolling off the tongue like he was in some Spanish soap opera.

Noah wondered why he was reading his words as seductive-it was a simple compliment. A backhanded one at that.

“They’re not all bad..” Noah said softly, thinking back to Owen’s soup. Tyler wasn’t terrible either although his sobbing had been the start of his headaches.

“Of course..” Alejandro said, shifting his face to an agreeing smile. Noah knew he didn’t share the same sentiments. It was obvious from his body language how much he despised Owen’s jokes and Tyler’s lack of common sense. Noah didn’t particularly like either of those qualities but, he didn’t waste his time hating them. Owen had stuck by him during most of the challenges and he owed him that much. And Tyler was harmless, although Noah had seen him and Alejandro whispering to each other on multiple occasions. Maybe it was to late for Tyler.

“Well I should probably go find Owen and Tyler..their absence is getting a bit worrisome..” Alejandro said with as much grace as always.

“Right..could you bring me back something..from the dinning hall.” He asked. It felt unnatural to actually ask but, his appetite was slowly returning and the amenities of first class weren’t going to cut it.

“Of course.” He said with a smile that made Noah’s heart beat quicken. His eyes were filled with happiness, glee in fact and that scared him.

He was getting to friendly but it was almost natural talking to him- even if they disagreed.

“I will let you keep that medication I must have forgotten to give it to you…” Alejandro said, lying through his teeth. Noah wanted to snap back that it wasn’t an accident but, it wasn’t worth it.

He was so sick of this back and forth with the dull ache in the back of his head.

“Thanks.” Noah said bitterly, glancing around for the bottle that had fallen from his hands. It laid discarded on the carpeted floor.

Alejandro stood up and pushed his chair back against the table. His eyes glanced out the planes window before he walked out of the cabin.

“You know there are things called goodbyes too.” Noah deadpanned to the empty space.

With nothing left to do he laid back against his seat and tried to shut his eyes. The rocking of the plane prevented him from truly sinking into sleep but, he was stubborn. So he laid there trying not to squirm in discomfort as pain radiated through him.

This wasn’t how he pictured the competition going.

Not in the slightest.

••••••••••••••••

Alejandro wanted to slap himself. He figured a lot of the other contestants shared the same sentiment.

Everything had been going great until he decided to stay and get friendly. He didn’t need to talk to Noah, he could have just pretended to be asleep and that would have been the end of it. Why was talking with him so…enjoyable?

He was supposed to make Noah dependent on him, not the other way around. Now Alejandro felt like he was craving conversation with Noah. Maybe it was just a lack of intelligent conversation for most of the competition. That had to be it.

There was no way his teammate was that Interesting. Or that attractive.

The thought had worked it’s way into his head before he could stop it.

It shouldn’t have been hard to deny the feelings. Noah’s nose was red from sneezing, his voice was raspy and, his eyes were lined with dark bags that marked an uneasy sleep. It wasn’t like he was there with a suit and holding a rose in his mouth, he was huddled up on a golden chair with a green blanket wrapped around him. Truly front cover worthy and, truly worth observing when Noah wasn’t looking. Now he was acting like Sierra. He was supposed to be better than this.

Although, the more he thought about it the more he wanted to see Noah in a suit- for curiosity’s sake. He only ever wore the same thing, on Chris’ command of course.

Alejandro figured he should stop his train of thought before it got out of hand. Besides that he was nearly at the dinning area. It was the last place left Owen and Tyler could be. He had passed the confessionals on the way and even peaked his head into economy class just in case they had somehow wandered in. Alejandro didn’t even want to know what they were still doing there, it was nearly dusk and, the kitchen was about to close.

Alejandro was inches away from the door when footsteps sounded behind him.

“Ah Al just the person I was looking for!” Chris said with a smile. Alejandro noted the way his eyes scrunched up and his face twitched like he was mad. What could he possibly want now.

“Chris, what can I help you with?” Alejandro asked trying to keep his voice light.

“I need to talk to you about something..interesting.” He said with an announcer smile. He was definitely bothered by something, Alejandro could see it as his face mirrored his own.

“Of course..” Alejandro replied with a serious expression. There was no point in putting up a charade with Chris, he watched everything they did.

Chris suddenly began walking down the hallway, leaving Alejandro to follow him. The direction he was heading looked like he was going towards the editing room although, Alejandro couldn’t be sure.

“I was reviewing footage earlier in my Chris McLean brand hot tub.” He began.

“And..I saw something.” He said cryptically. Alejandro suddenly thought of all the things he had done over the past day. He wasn’t worried about getting eliminated but, every example wouldn’t exactly put him in good standing with Chris.

Chris paused for a moment to unlock a door that was blocking the way.

“I figured I might as well just show you as I have nothing better to do.” He said shrugging before walking into a mostly dark room.

Alejandro squinted his eyes as Chris flicked a light switch. The room was rather plain, the walls were a neutral shade of blue. Screens lined three of the walls depicting different rooms of the plane. In the center was a control panel with a chair pulled up to it. One of Chris’ interns was jostling a control stick when his head turned towards them.

“M-Mr. McLean..” He squealed fumbling with the controller before standing up straight.

“Go on your break intern I need the room for a bit.” Chris snapped.

“Five minutes.. I want the next episode done by tonight no excuses if I catch you slacking guess who’s testing the parachute for the next elimination ceremony!” Chris yelled with a smile that only served to make the moment more unsettling.

Alejandro felt awkward watching the whole thing go down. He hadn’t expected to be ambushed by Chris, let alone dragged to a room that he had never laid eyes on.

Chris watched the intern leave before taking his place on the swivel chair.

“Welcome to the control room.. a.k.a the editing room this is where I stalk you for money.” He said bluntly. It was rather unsettling that nearly every place on the plane had some sort of camera. There was even one in the vents, Alejandro assumed that was because it was Cody’s new hiding place.

“While this is..interesting what exactly do you want to show me..” Alejandro asked gritting his teeth in annoyance. He hated being kept in the dark.

“Ah yes..I got a bit caught up..” He said messing with some buttons on the panel until all the screens displayed one video feed. According to the time stamp it was an old recording. The second Chris pressed play Alejandro knew what it was.

“I didn’t realize there was a camera down that hall.” He commented without emotion. Chris wouldn’t kick him out for bending the rules, if he knew anything about him he loved drama and Alejandro cheating was certainly drama.

“Well I was going to show everyone how you kept this little medical bay to yourself but, where’s the fun in that. I like you Al and you’ve given me great ratings because of your ruthlessness.” Chris explained.

“Then what is the point of this little meeting..” Alejandro muttered, trying to resist punching a wall at the use of his nickname.

“I just need you to do something for me.” He said with a smile. Alejandro suddenly got a bad feeling.

“Since Duncan left there’s no drama..sure there was Owen and Izzy but, she got taken away..I don’t have any more couples to mess with..and no Cody and Sierra don’t count I think half of what she does it borderline illegal..yikes” he said whining like a toddler.

“What am I supposed to do about it..” Alejandro asked with his arms crossed.

“Find someone and kiss them.” He said bluntly.

Alejandro was momentarily stunned.

“I’ve already done that don’t you think the audience will get bored.” He argued. He didn’t particularly feel like being involved with relationship drama. Manipulating emotions was one thing but, doing that while being intertwined with someone else didn’t exactly sound appealing to him.

“Not just kiss them I want you to love them..give me something… I don’t care who maybe Heather she clearly had a little crush on you..I’m sure the audience would love that.” Chris said, looking like he was already plotting out how he would frame everything.

“Heather isn’t exactly my biggest fan are you sure you’re not mistaken..” Alejandro asked , resisting Chris’ request. He had kissed people before on the show but, it was out of necessity not love. Chris clearly knew that.

“Come on you can’t be this dense she clearly hates you in a flirty way so go for it..” He explained.

“I don’t-“ he began.

“It has been decided..I need to find someway to boost these ratings while we find Duncan.” He explained, looking annoyed at the search parties failed efforts.

“Fine..but, if I am going to do all that for your show I think I deserve something in return..more than the video not getting shown to anyone.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Ugh okay..what do you want an advantage in the next challenge? Immunity? Name your price just don’t mention it to anyone else.” He said.

“I want a healthy team.” He said knowing Chris would understand.

“That’s kinda lame but, okay..I guess this whole being sick thing has kinda run it’s course.” Chris said waving his hand around.

“I’ll send Chef to check out Noah tomorrow and make sure his recovery is fast tracked..we got some rapid relief medication for emergencies.” He said waving his hand nonchalantly.

“Thank you.” Alejandro said genuinely. Maybe it was a little bit brash but, his reasoning still stood. If he helped Noah Noah would help him in the long run. If Noah was on his side then Owen would be and Tyler was practically under his thumb anyways. There was no way Heather could beat him then, seeing as no one on her team even liked her.

“Well that’s all go do whatever you usually do now I need some me time while my interns edit the footage for the next episode.” Chris said breaking apart the screens to different footage again.

“Sí of course.” Alejandro said bowing gratefully.

“I suppose I will find ..someone.” He said finally agreeing to it in wording. He felt almost uncomfortable at the thought of what Chris had just asked him to do. It was risky and would turn the tables on him if it ended badly but, at the same time Noah’s health was important for the teams success. It was a sacrifice he had to make.

“I knew I could count on you Al now make sure to shut your door on the way out!” Chris called happily.

“Mierda.” Alejandro cursed as soon as the door shut. He had just tried to find Owen and Tyler that was all. Leave it to Chris to make things complicated.

Alejandro felt his head began to ache as various ideas spitballed around in his head. He could try his luck with Heather who was clearly in denial about her own feelings or he could try someone else and hope for better success.

Courtney and Gwen were out of the question as Duncan was still set to come back, Sierra was beyond obsessed with Cody, and Tyler and Owen both had Lindsey and Izzy respectively. That left one person other than Heather. The someone he had been desperately trying to ignore.

Alejandro sighed as he paced through the narrow airplane halls.

Maybe he should try his luck with Heather. He liked her fine and she was rather similar to him. It was for the best, the safer option.

All Alejandro had to do was resist.

It was easier said than done.

••••••••••••••••

Owen sat in the confessional eating a bag of chips.

“Man I hope my little buddies doing okay I know he has Al but, I don’t know if he’s getting better."

“I would have gone to check on him sooner but, I may have dropped a plate..chef doesn’t like when you break stuff..” Owen sighed into the camera.

“I didn’t know you could fit so many dishes into one sink.” he shivered as he reached for another handfull of chips.

“Tyler didn’t break anything but, he offered to help..I don’t know I think he just wanted something to get his mind of Lindsey…I understand..I still miss Izzy’s little love bites..” he said reminiscing.

“Well I should probably go..I think Chris said the competition is happening tomorrow.. I hope Noah isn’t feeling to bad then..I don’t want him to get hurt.” Owen said.

……….

“Heyyy surprise it’s everyone’s favorite host Chris McLean coming to you live from
The confessionals..”

“Man it must suck having to spill secrets while sitting in this dump..” he said chuckling.

“Anyways I just wanted to get a feel for this place while telling you all to keep your eyes on the screen …the competition is going to heat up real fast..”

“Steps have already been taken to insure that.”

Chapter Text

Noah awoke in a cold sweat. His hands shook and his heart beat rapidly.

The fever dreams should have at least dulled in intensity so why had his dream once again turned into such a nightmare. He was recovering, with help from the medication. At least that was what was supposed to be happening.

Noah sighed and wiped the sweat off of his forehead. The plane was sheathed in darkness, even the windows were an inky shade of black. Noah went to move the blanket off of him when his arm brushed up against a plate that nearly fell onto the carpeted floor. It was balanced precariously on his arm rest covered with samples of all the food the dinning hall had to offer. Noah felt his stomach twist into a knot. Now he owed Alejandro even more, he shouldn’t have even asked. It was too late now.

He grabbed the plate and set it on his lap eyeing the food cautiously, before taking small bites with the fork that was also left on it.

It was vital that he eat something, if he wanted the medicine to do it’s job. Never mind that Alejandro had helped him get it. That was something he would have to deal with later, just like everything else. He still felt exhausted.

He hadn’t even been hungry but, before he could blink the food was gone. This sickness was really throwing him for a loop. He stared down at the plate for a moment, image blurring in his mind. He couldn’t just leave it and go back to sleep. No that was to easy.

Noah discarded the blanket wrapped around his waste and stood up, feet swaying back and forth as he attempted to steady himself. He had to get rid of the evidence that he had ever asked Alejandro for a favor- another one that is.

That and he was afraid that he might break it if he left it next to him. Chef didn’t take kindly to broken dishes and Noah wasn’t particularly in the mood to be lectured.

While the thought of walking all the way to the dinning hall made him dizzy, he had already made up his mind. Besides maybe it would be good to stretch his limbs, they felt weak from lack of use and if the challenge was physical tomorrow he was screwed.

Noah picked up the plate and walked out into the first class alley. A gust from the ratty old air conditioning sent goosebumps up his spine. Clearly he wasn’t feeling much better, assuming that one day would change anything was stupid. What was even more stupid was the way his eyes lingered on the table across from his seat- the one were Alejandro had sat. Something felt wrong with him not being there, Noah wasn’t sure what to make of that feeling.

One step at a time he began walking through the cabin, past Owen’s deep snores and Tyler’s weird pose. Noah couldn’t help but, glance over at Alejandro who had secured himself a spot in the front row. His eyes were relaxed, his mouth set into a peaceful expression, and his body was curled to the side almost hugging the seat. Noah almost had to pull himself away from the sight.

What was his problem? Here he was stalking Alejandro like some sort of Sierra clone instead of focusing. Getting distracted was how people got eliminated. Noah wasn’t about to be one of those people.

Without another word Noah trudged forward, holding the plate in a tighter grip than necessary to ensure nothing went wrong.

The transition from carpeted flooring to metal ridges caused Noah to shift uncomfortably with only his socks as protection. Days went by and slowly Noah was starting to feel more like a hospital patient wearing his white long sleeve shirt and thick socks. Next he would be hooked up to an IV. He sincerely hoped it wouldn’t get that far.

The planes quiet humming was calming as he continued down the halls- hugging the wall as a means of support. His legs felt like a baby deer, every step was tedious and required a lot more effort than normal. To make matters worse spots danced in his vision while darkness filled in the blanks. How he even knew where he was was beyond him. The only thing that was guiding him was the cold metal wall that he recognized. Noah figured he would be more than happy to get off the plane after the competition was over. Maybe even take a break from air travel, it wasn’t like he went anywhere anyways.

The plate began to grow heavier in his hand the further he walked. He was delusional for thinking he could make it this far. He hadn’t signed up for what felt like a full tour of the plane.

Noah could hear the engine groan with every step he took. He was almost there, in the dim lighting he could see the curtain to economy class billowing in a breeze omitting from the vents. He had known he had to trek through economy class but, actually staring it down felt intimidating. He brushed aside the pale green curtain and eyed everyone’s sleeping form wearily. Thankfully even Sierra was passed out, hugging Cody tightly. Noah almost felt bad for him as he moved even in his sleep, arms flailing around trying to escape her.

He quickly reached the other side, taking a breath once he was out of ear shot. It was just a couple more steps until he saw the dinning hall. It laid empty, looking lifeless. Chef didn’t keep the main hall locked, only the kitchen which was secured with a chain. He was serious about them not touching his things.

Noah simply walked over to the counter that laid just outside of the kitchen and set the plate down carefully. It made a slight clatter upon contact which caused Noah’s breathing to hitch. He didn’t feel like explaining himself to anyone in the dead of night.

Without another word or even observation of his surroundings Noah began to backtrack, across the tiled floor. The constant walking was making him feel woozy, he put a hand to his forehead to gauge how worried he should be. It didn’t feel particularly hot, maybe it was just the strain of interrupted sleep over the past day and a half.

Unfortunately the reasoning didn’t matter as his foot caught on the ledge leading to economy class. The sudden motion caused him to loose balance and reach out for the curtain in front of him. He grabbed on tightly, thankful the curtain was held up by a thick metal rod that prevented him from falling. Noah quickly stood back up. His heart beat rapidly in his chest as he peered through the fabric that had fallen over him. This was a very bad decision. His little freak out hadn’t been silent, Team Amazon was beginning to stir- one of them anyways.

Noah quickly shoved the fabric off of him, trailing through economy class taking short controlled breaths. He wasn’t going to talk to anyone he just wanted to go lay back down and forget exactly why he was in this whole mess.

“Hey what are you doing in here you creep?” A voice snapped. Noah recognized it instantly.

While every part of him wanted to keep walking, ignore the eyes that were glaring daggers at him, he stopped and turned around; his face was set in a frown. So much for peace and quiet he was apparently to clumsy for that.

“Chill I wasn’t stalking you..why would I bother watching you snore..” he deadpanned.

Heather looked offended that he had even responded.

“Ugh you will take that back..” she huffed. Noah was surprised at how quickly she had started to berate him. Wasn’t she trying to be nicer? Although maybe he was judging a little to harshly, he wasn’t even on team Amazon and he was sneaking around the plane.

“If you weren’t spying on us then what exactly are you doing?” Heather asked, seeming to calm down as she rubbed her eyes.

“Nothing..just taking a walk…” Noah began. The sudden usage of his vocal cords caused him to cough. Being sick apparently wasn’t ideal for sneaking around.

“Yeah sure and Alejandro isn’t a lying snake..” Heather said clenching her fist.

“What’s with the hospital get up anyways?” She questioned, clearly getting down to business. It was his own fault for even getting into this conversation.

“None of your business why would I tell you?” Noah asked defensively, arms crossing over his chest as more goosebumps creeped up his arms.

Heather stared at him with daggers in her eyes. She seemed to be observing him like a bird about to dive towards its prey. Noah swallowed hard, trying to ignore the way the back of his throat tickled.

He couldn’t ignore it for long as he sneezed, covering his mouth in an attempt to muffle the sound.

“Wait I know what’s wrong with you ..ugh stay back I’m not getting some sickness from you..” she demanded.

“Calm down I’m not trying to get you sick.” Noah muttered. It was his fault for making it so obvious.

“Was this seriously why Chris postponed the challenge..this is outrageous your team is getting special treatment!” She accused, connecting the dots quicker than he expected.

“Don’t look at me ask the eel you have a crush on..he’s Chris’ favorite..” Noah said apathetically. Bringing up Alejandro was sure to set her on a tangent but, at least she wouldn’t be focused on him anymore.

“Of course he’s behind this…how dare he invade on my turf..” Heather seethed, teeth gritted.

“You know he’s just using you ..he needs loyal followers and the rest of your team are perfect sheep for the job..” She spit out like Noah wasn’t already aware.

“Obviously..I’m sick not dumb..” Noah said, failing to mention the way he had previously doubted his suspicions.

“If care so much why don’t you deal with him..he’s been bothering me for the past day and a half.” Noah admitted sourly. He again failed to mention how he didn’t hate every second of it. That would mean-

Nothing. It meant nothing.

“What makes you think I care?” Heather asked, fists closed at her side trying hard not to move. Noah wanted to give her a million reasons why she cared but, he held his tongue. All he wanted to do was collapse back onto the seats of first class.

“Whatever..do what you want I’m going back to sleep we have a challenge tomorrow and I need to be well rested so I can screw everything up.” Noah said sarcastically. Hopefully she would get the memo.

Noah turned his body away from her and began walking through economy class. The silence was peaceful and Noah almost thought he was done with the conversation until Heather called out after him.

“Wait..” Heather said drawing to a standing position.

Noah turned around, body off center from all his sudden movements. Why was he even entertaining her he should have just kept waking. Let her get mad, it didn’t matter she wasn’t even on his team.

“I have a proposition.” Heather explained, choosing her words carefully. Noah was surprised that she was even considering making a deal with him. Maybe he was hallucinating he did have drugs running through his system.

“I’m listening..” Noah said, airing on the side of caution. It was Heather after all, even with her supposed new leaf turned over he still had the common sense to be distrustful.

“Clearly we both want Alejandro gone..” She said, eyes gleaming

“Unfortunately he’s too smart to fall for anything we can come up with by ourselves..” She said putting her hand to her chin.

“What’s your point?” Noah questioned growing impatient.

“He’s on your team and clearly if he’s going to great lengths to help you he wants something..” she started.

“If you don’t want to spend the rest of the competition playing defense I might have a plan.” She suggested.

Noah eyed her with disdain. Trusting Heather was almost dumber than trusting Alejandro. But, she did have a point, a good one. By himself he had no shot at any plans succeeding, Alejandro kept a close watch on all of them, he was to smart for that. It would at least be wise to hear her out.

“Alright I’ll bite..” he said, keeping his arms crossed lazily over his chest.

“Alejandro’s in the middle of trying to get you to join his side.. that means if someone else where to try to change some of your teams mind he might miss it..” She said with a smirk growing on her face.

“You want me to be the decoy?” Noah asked, already hating the idea of entertaining one of Alejandro’s schemes. Not to mention the fact that his emotions might get in the way. That was a scenario he hoped would never see the light of day.

Heather sighed. “You distract him before the challenge tomorrow and I try to talk to Tyler..I noticed Alejandro had him under his thumb.” She offered.

“What about Owen he’s not convinced that Al is a manipulative eel.” Noah threw back at her.

“I can’t be in two places at once..besides I’m sure that oaf would vote for whoever you wanted.” She muttered. Noah held his tongue hearing her call Owen an ‘oaf’.

“So this plan basically involves me doing 90% of the work not to mention that you might not even change Tyler’s mind..” he protested.

“And what happens if everything goes as planned then we would still have to loose the challenge to eliminate him…and more importantly what if it’s another reward challenge?” Noah asked feeling his breathing become sporadic. He already felt pathetic but, the fatigue was sending him over the edge.

Noah took a deep breath. Being sick was such a pain, it made things way more complicated than they had to be.

“Can you think of a better idea… nothing in this damn show is guaranteed when Chris is at the helm..besides I’m offering to help you and you’re not even on my team.”

“Yeah you’re so generous no matter what my team loses a member while you guys are sitting pretty.” Noah complained.

“Then I’ll ask you this..how badly do you want him gone?” Heather asked raising an eyebrow. She really did have a point.

Noah looked away from her, processing all the information.

“How do I know you’ll follow through and talk to Tyler? No offense but, you aren’t someone I’m just dying to put my trust in..” Noah asked.

“You don’t.” She said bluntly.

“But, if you want a shot I’m giving it to you..I’ve had enough of his antics.” Heather huffed, Noah could have sworn he saw her cheeks tint pink.

“Are you referring to his flirting?” Noah asked gesturing to her face.

She scoffed in response.

“No of course not only an idiot would fall for him.” She said.

“Yeah..right..” Noah said as they both looked away from each other.

“So do we have a deal?” Heather asked, eyes looking determined. Maybe she had changed, although it was still up in the air.

Noah wanted to spend more time thinking about it but, it was really his best shot. Heather had a way with words and Alejandro wouldn’t keep a close eye on Heather while he was busy attending to Noah’s every need. All he had to do was lay into it a little more, act less suspicious.

“Deal.” He finally said. He hated the way the words rolled off his tongue like they lacked any thought. He may have well just accepted an all expenses paid trip off the plane.

“I’ll let you know if I manage to get you a vote.” She huffed, relaxing back into the bench with her arms at her sides.

“And I’ll keep Al busy.” Noah said nodding his head.

“Now go away you aren’t going to interrupt my beauty sleep!” Heather snapped.

“You don’t have to tell me twice..” Noah grumbled, turning around and trailing towards the exit.

The second the curtains closed behind him he released a breath he didn’t know he was holding in. What had he just done? Had he seriously made a deal with Heather of all people.

Maybe it was the only way anything was going to be done about Alejandro.

Maybe it was time to fight fire with fire.

••••••••••••••••

Noah’s eyes fluttered open as blinding light covered him. He quickly sat up, hands shielding his face as black spots danced in his vision. The sudden movement forced him to acknowledge that the sickly feeling hadn’t faded. Nothing had changed with more restless sleep, big surprise there. At least the fatigue had somewhat diminished.

That meant he almost instantly recalled his conversation with Heather. It hadn’t been some sort of sleep induced dream, Noah wasn’t sure whether he was thankful of that fact or not. Like it or not he was teamed up with Heather, it was strange to actually think.

He could only hope that she would actually follow through. In the mean time that, unfortunately, meant he had to act his part. If Alejandro wanted to play he would play him right back.

Noah was still hesitant but, he took comfort in the fact that he could back out at anytime. He didn’t owe Heather anything and her hatred of him was nothing new. Maybe he held more power in the arraignment than he thought.

“Noah how are you feeling?” A familiar voice asked drawing Noah from his thoughts. He noticed how the charm was laid on thick.

“Better..” he finally said. He almost set his face in a frown before deciding against it. He needed to distract him, make him think his plan was working. It would take some getting used to.

“But it doesn’t matter because we still have a challenge today..” Noah said cynically. Maybe he could ease himself into it. Although it seemed like no matter what he said Alejandro’s minty green eyes were glued to him. They were nice to look at when they weren’t curved to fit his smirk. Not that Noah noticed.

“Ah that’s were you’re wrong my friend.” Alejandro said with a light smile. Noah noticed his eyes glazing over, what exactly did that mean? Even on his best days Alejandro was confusing but, Noah couldn’t escape the feeling that maybe he had missed something important. He only hoped it wouldn’t throw off what was already in motion.

“I spoke with Chris again and managed to convince him that your illness will not improve his viewership.” He said proudly. For some reason Noah noticed Alejandro staring directly at him. There was no casually break of eye contact like in most conversations-- his eyes remained trained on Noah, like he was lost in thought and only happened to stare right at him.

“Hey are you good?” Noah asked, having to address the obvious.

“Oh.” He said blinking suddenly.

“Apologies Owen’s snoring wasn’t exactly paramount to a good night sleep.” He said allowing the sparkle to return to his eyes once again. Noah only sighed. It was to early for dealing with Alejandro.

“As I was saying Chris agreed to have Chef help you recover before the challenge today.” He said with a wide smile.

“Right..thanks but, how will I recover by the time the challenge starts?” Noah questioned. He couldn’t help the pessimistic question but, Alejandro wasn’t dissuaded.

Noah acknowledged how impressive it was that Alejandro could hide his true personality. Even pretending to care was exhausting, Noah would be more than happy to slip into the background once the whole charade had ended. He only hoped he would have a chance to resume it.

“Apparently Chris has been hoarding some sort of medication to get rid of the symptoms..normally for his own personal use.” Alejandro said. Noah found that believable. The man had a hot tub with his face on it of course he had access to questionable drugs to delay any inconvenience to his filming schedule. Noah still wasn’t sure if he wanted to test whatever medicine Chef had in mind to treat him with. Then again he had to distract Alejandro and if Alejandro went with him then maybe Heather could talk to Tyler.

“Okay..” he said, trying to hide behind his passive expression when a sharp pain cut through his skull. Maybe the medicine wouldn’t be such a bad idea.

“I will help you to the nurses station if you would like.” Alejandro offered extending his hand outward. Normally Noah would have made some sort of sarcastic remark but, he held his tongue. This was for the greater good. His greater good.

“Do what you want.” He decided on, trying not to sound to needy. Noah slowly stood up, holding onto the seat in front of him. Once he felt balanced enough he reached for the blue shirt hanging over his seat. He had had enough of wearing nothing but, his thin cotton shirt. It wasn’t even that comfortable. Maybe if he had won the million the first time around he would have been able to afford something nicer. Then again it was probably a bit pathetic to only think about buying a new shirt with a million dollars.

Noah pulled the blue shirt over his white undershirt. He felt slightly better- more like himself; or maybe more like his TV persona. It wasn’t like it was to far off.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen that style on you before.” Alejandro commented with a self assured smile.

“Just wait until I put my sweater vest back on.” Noah said rolling his eyes. A couple of quips wouldn’t stop Alejandro from trying, besides it was hard to suppress them as they came to mind.

“It looks nice.” Alejandro said just as he stopped speaking. Noah tried not to let surprise show on his face. Was Alejandro complimenting him? There was nothing much to be impressed by, he knew how he looked, he had seen his reflection in the window a couple times- it wasn’t pretty.

“Sure..” he said stepping out of the row of seats.

“Lead the way I guess.” Noah said slowly buttoning up his shirt with shaky hands. They hadn’t seemed to stop since Alejandro appeared. Why was he even bothering with a convoluted plan? He felt exhausted in every since of the word from a simple interaction. Was it how Alejandro felt every time he spoke, he seemed to have manipulation down pat. Maybe Noah was a bit rusty, usually he sat back and let the others do all the work.

Noah noticed Alejandro’s hand was still outstretched. Did he really have to? If Heather was in his position she would have done it easily despite her crush. He could clearly do the same. Besides keeping him close by would mean he couldn’t spy on the rest of Team Chris is really really really really hot. Noah wanted to facepalm for the hundredth time as he recited the name in his head.

The second their hands connected Noah noticed the strange warmth that emanated from him. Noah would have expected it to be cold, maybe he was still burning up from his fever.

Instead of continuing to focus on Alejandro’s very real hand attached to his he looked up at him.

“Well..?” He asked apathetically, or at least attempted anyways.

Alejandro grinned like he had won something.

“This way.” He said gliding forward.

Noah knew that Alejandro had fallen into his trap.

••••••••••••••••

Heather sat with her arms crossed against her chest. One leg dangled over the other as she eyed the other members of her team with disdain.

Gwen had been complaining about a sunburn on her hand for the past day and a half so Courtney he decided it was a great idea to put together a home remedy that consisted of bird poop. The smell had wafted through the entire cabin causing Heathers nose to wrinkle.

“Ugh keep that disgusting crap away from me..” she said glaring at them as the planes rattling caused it to slide closer to her.

Courtney only shot her a look that made Heather even more annoyed.

“Hot hot hot..” Owen suddenly cried out causing her eyes to snap over to the other side of the plane.

What was it this time? To make things even worse Chris had shoved everyone into economy class while he prepared some sort of special surprise. While she wanted to get as far away from Owen as possible she knew she wouldn’t have a better opportunity to talk to Tyler.

Noah was clearly holding up his end of the deal as neither he nor Alejandro were anywhere in economy class. She momentarily wondered what exactly they were doing.

It hadn’t been her first thought to strike a deal with someone she almost never thought about but, opportunity knocked and she wasn’t about to ignore it. Besides Noah was proving to be someone that was at least semi-competent.

They both wanted the same thing regardless. Alejandro gone. He was becoming a nuisance. This would be her finally scheme before she finally turned over a new leaf. Perhaps it was time that she actually win something for once, the right way. Clearly it was possible.

Heather finally stood up and walked over to Tyler. He was dozing off under the old air conditioning that had been a constant annoyance to Heather.

“Hey!” She snapped her fingers in front of his face, scowling as his eyes slowly opened.

“Wha..uh..Heather?” He asked sitting up.

“We need to talk moron.” She said glaring daggers at him.

“Why?” He asked looking confused.

“I’ll explain later just come on..” she said pulling him up by his collar and dragging him to a standing position. Why was she even putting up with him. A better question was how did Lindsey put up with him? He wasn’t even that cute.

“Wait I like girls..no I have a girlfriend.” He muttered, still dazed.

“Chill out it’s not like that.” She said softly, trying not to draw attention to their little interaction.

“Oh..” he said scratching the back of his head.

“It’s about your alliance with Alejandro.” she whispered gesturing to the economy classes curtain.

Tyler frowned but, gave her a nod. She hadn’t expected him to put up much of a fight. He was simply partnered with Alejandro because who else would help him? Heather knew the type. He was the same as Lindsey, although she had gotten a bit unruly the second season of the show.

Heather shoved the curtain open and trailed out into the hallway, beckoning Tyler with a harsh gaze.
It would be easy to convince him to switch sides. She had noticed how close he had stayed to Alejandro the past couple challenges but, she had never had an opportunity to talk with him privately without Alejandro around to undo her work.

Heather crossed her arms and began her work. The words flowed out, smooth as silk.

“I just wanted to let you know that Alejandro is playing you.” She said casually.

“What Al? Why would I believe you?” He said looking doubtful.

“Because I know him..he’s me..” she snapped.

“There’s no way dude..he hasn’t done anything ..” Tyler said.

“Besides he’s been helping me stay in the competition.” Tyler added.

“You mean you’ve been helping him, waiting at his every beck and call?” Heather asked.

“No!…well I guess..” he acknowledged, eyes darting away from Heathers gaze. Maybe she was coming across a little to strong. It wasn’t like she usually went with the gentle approach.

“But, it’s an alliance and I trust that everything he does is for a reason.” Tyler said. Clearly he was clueless to Alejandro’s master plan.

“Sure but, do you want to be a stepping stone to his victory? Do you really think he plans to keep you around once you give him what he wants?” Heather demanded.

“Well we’re a team he wouldn’t backstab me..” Tyler said looking doubtful of his words.

“He had no problem doing it to anyone else what makes you any different once you become useless?” Heather questioned, poking him square in the chest as he stumbled back. Being gentle wouldn’t get her anywhere she needed Alejandro gone.

Tyler frowned, eyes returning to Heathers with a realization.

“I..guess you’re right..” he said looking perplexed at the conclusion he had come to.

“But why are you telling me this?”He asked.

“Because I need something from you you idiot.” She snapped , failing to control the insult. Calling him names wouldn’t exactly win her any brownie points.

Tyler only gave her a dumbfounded look. He was good at those.

“I need you to vote for him during your teams next elimination ceremony..I can guarantee that the others also want him gone.” Heather said finally getting somewhere.

“Are you sure what if he finds out?” Tyler asked, looking afraid. Maybe Alejandro was ruling team Chris with more of an iron fist than she thought.

“He won’t as long as you don’t run your mouth.” She snapped.

“Right..I guess I could give it a try…for Lindsey” he said. Heather had no idea where the topic of Lindsey had come from. Clearly her departure was still doing a number on him.

“But, why do you care about Alejandro so much..aren’t you two like dating or something ?” He asked.

“What?! No, I just want Alejandro gone I don’t care how it happens. He’s standing in the way of one of us winning the million.” She said, keeping her voice low even as anger bubbled to the surface at the thought that she would ever date that slime ball.

“Okay.” He said nodding his head rapidly.

“Good I just need you to do one more thing..” Heather said with a wide smile. She had actually done it. Alejandro was going down. As long as Noah didn’t screw anything up maybe her hastily put together plan would work.

The thought filled Heather with joy but, also a strange aching. It was just artificial feelings, Alejandro was only standing in the way. In the way of her victory. She wouldn’t let that slime get one up on her, she was Heather for crying out loud she had ruled the first game.

This season would be no different.

She would win the money and finally get what she deserved.

That was a promise.

••••••••••••••••

Noah sat in the confessionals tapping his knee anxiously. In his hand he held a small bottle that contained a couple white pills.

“So..uh Chef gave me some supposed ‘fast acting relief’ medicine..he said it would clear my symptoms up in less than an hour..” he explained.

“I doubt that’s scientifically possible but, it’s worth a shot…apparently Chris takes these to ensure the shooting schedule isn’t delayed…maybe that’s why he looks so dead all the time these can’t be healthy..” Noah muttered glancing at the bottle.

“Anyways I’m supposed to take the rest of these in twelve hours or so to make sure the cold is cleared up.”

“I guess we’ll see.” He said shrugging.

“At least I kept Al distracted for as long as I could..” At the mention of Alejandro his eyes drifted to the side, face tinting pink.

“I may have held his hand..I don’t know why I did it but, I think it worked.. we even talked on the way back to economy class..he thinks I fell for him…for it ..for it..” he clarified taking deep breaths.

“I don’t know I feel so energetic all of a sudden..” he said breathlessly.

“One second my head feels like it’s splitting in two and the next I feel normal..better I guess ..it’s great compared to the alternative..maybe I can actually help in the challenge this time..” he said.

“Chris has been super secretive about whatever he’s using first class for so hopefully it isn’t something physical.” Noah said taking a moment to calm down.

“Whatever it is I’ll have to keep and eye on Alejandro..I doubt he’ll be leaving me alone anyways now that he thinks he’s won.” Noah said.

“One more challenge and he’s gone.” Noah said with determination.

His eyes betrayed his words.

……….

“I don’t know about everyone else but, I wish Chris would just start the challenge already..” Cody said in a squeaky voice.

“Only because Sierra wouldn’t leave me alone last night..she was hugging me so tight I barely got a wink of sleep..” he said sighing.

“Although I did hear something weird last night..maybe I was just dreaming but I think Heather was talking to somebody..” he said.

“I don’t know the words all blurred together it was probably nothing..” he said cautiously.

“But, maybe Heather is still scheming..I know she’s supposed to have turned over a new leaf but, she still acts exactly the same..I kinda wish I had paid more attention what if she was plotting to backstab the team?” He asked frantically.

“Maybe I should tell Courtney..if she’ll even listen to me..” he said.

“Oh codykins where are you?” A voice called from outside the stall.

“I should probably go..” he said looking at the camera nervously before opening the door and slipping out.

The camera only shook gently as the door was slammed.

Chapter Text

Alejandro stared at Noah who was currently seated next to him. The action had remained unmentioned between the two of them but, they both realized how strange it was. Noah’s leg was almost brushing against his and every shift of the plane caused them to scoot closer to each other.

It didn’t matter as Alejandro had finally won. Noah had put up a good fight but, he knew the more he pushed the more he would bend. Alejandro was now content to sit back and watch the challenge unfold. As long as he kept an eye on Noah everything would work in his favor. Maybe he could finally go after someone new, if only to get his mind off the other feelings that had cropped up

It wasn’t fair that his thoughts had been solely dedicated to one person, that was how things slipped by him. He was Alejandro, he didn’t miss anything.

It wasn’t like it was intentional, it was just that anytime he tried to shift his attention elsewhere Noah appeared, face blank and eyes twinkling like he wasn’t the most attractive person on the plane.

Alejandro wanted to continuously smack himself until the thoughts would leave. He was sick of putting up charade after charade, keeping Noah in the competition was a dangerous gamble. Alejandro wasn’t sure if he could keep up his perfect act with him around.

The thought was confirmed as a weight was suddenly pressed up against him, Noah. He was pushing himself into Alejandro’s side to dodge the downpour of milk that came from Owen’s nose.

“Come on dude not so close to me..” he grumbled, brow wrinkled up in disgust as he shook the arm that hadn’t escaped the blast.

Alejandro resisted the urge to flirt with him. It would have been natural, how he would respond to anyone else, but Noah wasn’t anyone else. The words would have had a lot more truth to them than Alejandro would have liked to admit.

“How dare you!” Courtney exclaimed as something green dropped down the wall behind her.

Owen chuckled nervously, shoving more peppers in his mouth. Why was everyone on the plane so strange?

“Sorry..” Noah said as he slowly retreated back into his own bubble. Alejandro noticed the stagnant nature of his movements, clearly his cold was still having an effect on him.

The pills might have done what Chef had promised but, the wear of not moving for a day and a half had clearly done a number on him. If they were to succeed in the challenge it couldn’t be an athletic one. Alejandro hadn’t done all that work just to be met with another elimination ceremony.

Why had he put so much work into convincing Noah to be a team player? Everyone else there had been a quick, almost easy, solution to get under their skin and make them bend to his will. Maybe it was just Noah’s strangely stubborn personality or the fact that Alejandro wasn’t sure what to make of him.

It had barely been a week since his first conversation with Noah that wasn’t hollow encouragement or a generic response to his endless one-liners.

“Hey little buddy how are you feeling? I heard Al took you down to chef.” Alejandro heard Owen whisper to Noah. He had clearly finished eating all the peppers he had in hand, thankfully. Alejandro didn’t want to risk getting his crisp red shirt tainted by that vile substance.

“I’ll be fine..Chef gave me some medicine so I’m good for the challenge today..” he said in a monotone voice. Alejandro wanted to ask the same question Owen had. Maybe Noah would give him a more truthful answer.

“Hey guys look I think I see something out the window!” Cody said pointing.

“Hey no peaking!” A voice suddenly cut through the intercoms.

“Why are you stalking us? Who cares if we know where the next challenge is?” Courtney questioned, wrinkling up her face.

“Have you ever heard of show business? Ugh it doesn’t matter..” Chris said.

“I just wanted to let you know that we have been denied permission to land at our next destination..” Chris paused for a moment to let the information sink in.

“I think you all know what that means… you’re going to have to jump!” Chris announced happily.

“You’ve got to be kidding me..” Noah muttered next to him.

“Oh and Chef may have miscounted the parachutes so I’d get to the exit as quickly as possible if I were you!”

“I’m a chef not a mathematician..” Chef said defensively as the plane began to swerve.

Noah and Alejandro both stood up at the same time, eyes meeting each other in solidarity.

“Come on we must get there as quickly as possible.” Alejandro called to Tyler and Owen who were different shades of green.

“Not again man I hate skydiving..” Tyler said standing up.

“Good then you and Owen can bond over that while you’re free falling..” Noah said rolling his eyes as he guided Owen forward. Owen looked one second away from freaking out and Alejandro doubted any hypnosis would help at the moment.

“Come on my friends wouldn’t you rather sky dive with a parachute?” Alejandro suggested, feeling antsy.

“You don’t have to tell me twice man let’s go.” Tyler said running ahead like his life depended on it.

“Out of my way I will be getting one of those parachutes!” Courtney called out, shoving her way through the small crowd.

Noah sighed as Owen babbled incoherently. They had to get those parachutes first or one of them could get injured. Alejandro knew they didn’t need anymore set backs.

In order to make sure everything went as planned he trailed behind them, watching to make sure none of them got lost along the way, somehow Tyler always managed to get himself turned around while on the plane. Alejandro didn’t even understand how that was even possible.

He wasn’t the slightest bit worried about not getting a parachute, if all else failed he could always ask Tyler for his parachute, or Noah- maybe that was pushing his boundaries a bit to much. No matter what he did Noah wasn’t about to become a yes man just because Alejandro wanted it. He had known the limitations when trying to get into Noah’s head. Both of their positions right now were the best he could hope for.

Alejandro finally crossed through the door to the cargo hold. A giant trapdoor was open blowing wind every which way. Noah stared it down apathetically, arms crossing slightly at the chill. Why was he focusing on him? He might as well grab a parachute while there were still some left.

Alejandro quickly dodged some of the other competitors, using his height to his advantage to retrieve one.

The rest went quickly with Tyler grabbing one and Owen holding onto one like a lifeline. He really did have a fear of heights.

That only left Noah who’s parachute was promptly snatched by Sierra before he could say a word.

“Gee you could have just asked.” Noah said, watching her walk off.

“Ah..I suppose you were to slow.” Alejandro said trying to look apologetic.

“It’s fine I didn’t expect to get one anyways.” He said. Alejandro wanted to snap at him, without a parachute he could get hurt.

That would mean he wouldn’t be able to help in the challenge. That and he didn’t want to admit it but, he cared about his safety.

Alejandro glanced around as the others began to jump, one after the other. Screams could be heard as they fell. Alejandro wasn’t a huge fan of sky-diving himself but, he wasn’t going to be seen as weak, screaming into the void and frantically pulling the parachute cord before he hit the hard ground. No he was more graceful than that.

The parachute in his hand suddenly felt heavy as he realized that he and Noah were the only ones left in the cargo hold. He knew the jump window had to be closing soon so he flung the parachute over his back and neared the hole in the ground.

He could feel Noah’s eyes trained on him, that familiar look of suspicion was showing itself again and Alejandro wasn’t sure if he liked it.

“We’ll have to share this parachute.” He offered, turning back to him while his hair whipped every which way. So much for a perfect hair day, he would have to comb it back into his laid back style later. Keeping up appearances was key to any good scheme after all.

José had taught him that. It was probably the only piece of advice he had listened to.

Noah looked like he was biting back some sort of sarcastic comment. He hesitated, slowly drawing closer to Alejandro.

“Are you sure you actually know how to skydive? I’m not getting crushed again because you decide midway to use me as a landing pad..” he said, clearly referring to Owen’s unfortunate habit during the past challenges.

“I assure you I have experience.. everything will be controlled.” He promised. He couldn’t stand there all day trying to give Noah a list of reasons why he, at the present moment, could be trusted.

Noah opened his mouth to protest further but, he never got a chance to speak. Alejandro was already moving forward, grabbing onto Noah’s waist before leaning backwards, diving into the open expanse of sky that laid below them.

The feeling that cut through his stomach was uncomfortably but, he kept a neutral expression on his face. Noah on the other hand gripped onto his arm tightly, eyes widening as the wind folded around them.

Alejandro’s other hand remained trained on the cord that protruded from his pack. He knew that he had to stay focused. Even with Noah so close to him he had to keep up appearances. He was simply helping his teammate, that was all.

All around him the other contestants had activated their parachutes but, he stood firm, waiting until the last possible second before pulling the string and freeing the giant billowing fabric that formed a dome above them.

They slowly glided towards the bridge below them.  Alejandro finally relaxed his muscles, it was hard not to tense up as they were plummeting towards the ground. Noah in the other hand only tensed further, arms clutching Alejandro’s forearm tightly. Alejandro didn’t mention how the feeling in his stomach hadn’t gone away, it had only changed.

It was a couple more minutes until his feet finally touched the ground, transitioning softly to a standing position as the parachute fell behind him.

Alejandro quickly released Noah from his hold, causing him to slide to the ground with a scowl.

“Next time can you not grab me without a warning.” He said, eyes trained directly on him. Alejandro noticed how red his cheeks looked. Maybe it was from the wind beating against both of them, it was rather rough.

“I’m sorry but, we were getting left behind and you weren’t cooperating.” He argued, wondering what exactly they were fighting about.

“That isn’t an excuse to grab me..I don’t need your-“ Noah began before his eyes suddenly darted away.

“You know what it doesn’t matter.” He grumbled, observing the double decker bus that they had landed next to.

Alejandro wanted to press it but, the other competitors were landing around him and he didn’t particularly feel like damaging his image just to get information.

“I did it I’m alive!” Owen cheered as he hit the floor, throwing the parachute off of his back and kissing the ground.

Noah noticeably tensed up. Alejandro shared his sentiments.

“Welcome my latest victims..I mean participants..to London!” Chris announced, the bus door opening as they slowly formed a circle around the vehicle.

“What are you all waiting for hop on board!” He said happily.

They all eyed each other wearily. Alejandro decided to take the first step and walk up the stairs to the second story. He was the leader, the one the others admired. He wasn’t about to follow someone else up the stairs.

Noah begrudgingly followed after him, glancing at Chris’ false smile with disdain. Noah’s variety of facial expressions, all displaying annoyance, amused Alejandro. How was it that he managed to get away with showing such complex emotion with only a few muscles on his face.

Alejandro slid into the aisle closest to the front. He spared a quick glance out the window at the stretched out city of London. It looked magnificent.

Alejandro had hope that maybe the challenge wouldn’t be physically taxing given its introduction. After all when was the last time Chris had given them a tour of the place they were visiting. There must have been a reason for it.

The bus continued to fill up as he thought over all the potential challenges Chris had in mind.

“Hey not to be that person but, I think someone’s missing..” Noah said as he reached the front of the bus. He looked around at everyone to confirm his statement.

Alejandro realized he was right, how had he missed her demanding presence.

“He’s right where did Heather go? I could have sworn I saw her on the plane..” Gwen said sitting next to Courtney.

“Mwahahah..ahem I mean I’m glad someone finally noticed..I’m sure she will turn up later..I’d be more worried about you right now.” Chris said keeping a smile on his face. So Heather’s disappearance was his work, he should have realized.

“Hey Chef hit it..” Chris whispered as the bus finally took off.

“Now..in the mean time relax take a look around at the magnificent city of London known for a variety of things from their fish n’ chips to Big Ben..not to mention the Queens Jewel’s!” He said pulling out some convenient picture frames that showed images of the things in question.

Alejandro desperately wanted him to just get to the point. Clearly the little slide show was building up to something.

“But, there is one thing London is known for that isn’t so nice..” he said trying to look scarier by holding a flashlight under his face.

“He haunted the alley ways of this very city, knife in hand as he gutted his victims..to this day no one has even come close to unmasking his identity” Chris said.

“I think you known who I’m referring to.” He said glancing over at all of them.

“Jack the Ripper?” Gwen offered as Chris grinned.

“Ding ding ding.” He said pointing over at her.

Chris quickly reached for another frame to hold up.

“Yes..exactly and that brings me to the point of all of this.. your challenge if I may.” He explained.

“Your job is to hunt down the famed serial killer Jack the Ripper.. you will follow the clues provided starting at your first destination.. but be careful you’re not the only one hunting tonight..” he said grinning as he shinned his flash light on a portrait of a figure in a dark black cloak and hat.

“Oh this is perfect.” Gwen squealed as she and Courtney made eye contact with each other.

Alejandro glanced over at Noah who looked far away from everything.

“Were you paying attention my friend?” Alejandro asked jostling him slightly before his eyes snapped over to his.

“Sure..” he said toying with the blue collar of his shirt.

“Are you feeling better?” Alejandro asked as the bus continued to drive towards their destination.

“Tired.. but, hey at least the symptoms are gone..”he deadpanned, looking at Alejandro before correcting himself.

 “I’ll manage ..” he clarified.

“Besides  this challenge clearly isn’t going to be that difficult..just a couple riddles...” He said shrugging his shoulders and crossing his arms once he noticed he was fidgeting.

“Yes I suppose you’re right..” Alejandro said drawing silent once again. Noah was hard to talk with when he had no interest in holding a conversation.

Thankfully Owen popped up behind them, startling Alejandro.

“Is there really going to be a serial killer chasing us!” Owen exclaimed, arms held together as a look of terror crossed his face.

“Don’t worry Chris wouldn’t send an actual serial killer to hunt us down….I think.” Noah comforted, glancing over at Chris who was whispering to Chef.

“Yes we must remain calm and stick together so we can succeed in this challenge.” Alejandro said feeling like a motivational poster on someone’s wall.

“Yeah what he said..” Noah cheered with zero emotion in his voice. He didn’t have to try so hard to be enthusiastic.

Alejandro found himself staring out the window as Owen and Noah continued to talk. It was strange how friendly they were when their personalities seemed as different as night and day. Maybe Owen had simply stuck by Noah against his protests but, it seemed deeper than that. A friendship took two no matter how annoying the fact was.

Alejandro wasn’t sure how he felt about their bond. It could be seen as a form of alliance. One that could easily be turned against him if he ever lost his grip on Noah.

“Hey Al did you know they have this amazing dish here I’ve always wanted to try.” Owen said excitedly. The nickname caused his jaw to tighten. He had to breathe or he might just punch something.

“Are you seriously calling fish n’ chips and amazing dish..?” Noah said rolling his eyes.

“Aw come on how can you say no to the delicately breaded fish mixed in with perfectly seasoned fries..all served in an easy to hold paper cone..” Owen said beginning to drool.

“I think it’s a heart attack waiting to happen..” Noah said.

“I just want to try it once..an authentic dish..” he said staring out the window as Chef continued towards their first destination.

“I doubt Chris will give us enough time for that to happen..” Noah said.

“Besides we must focus on the challenge we need to avoid the elimination ceremony.” Alejandro said, trying to remind him that this was in fact a competition. He may have been laying it on a little thick but, he wasn’t worried about Owen figuring anything out.

“I guess you’re right..I’m sorry but, it’s not meant to be..” Owen said dragging his hand down the window in a dramatic display.

If only he had been allowed to pick his own team. Then he wouldn’t have to deal with this. Then again he couldn’t have imagined a better team to bend to his will. Anyone on Team Amazon would have caught on to him before he really sunk his teeth in.

Alejandro turned his gaze back to Noah, intent on enjoying the lull of background conversations until he would be forced to take charge again. Maybe he was also intent on enjoying something, or someone, else.

It was hard to describe the emotion that bubbled to the surface observing Noah sitting there with his arms crossed. Something about it just felt right. What was so alluring about him that Alejandro hadn’t noticed before.

 It was annoying.

He had already done the heavy lifting so why was he stumbling so close to the finish line. He had to stay strong and control his team- control himself. He was Alejandro. He hadn’t gone through every crazy challenge so far just to lose because of one stupid crush. It was childish to call it that. It wasn’t even that it was simply admiration, an intense feeling that made his ears turn red.

Alejandro was grateful when Noah finally snapped him out of his thoughts.

“Is there something on my face?” Noah asked catching him staring.

Alejandro was annoyed at how little emotion he was showing on his face. He needed something to gauge how he was feeling but, now that he was essentially recovered he was back to the same old Noah; inexpressive and sarcastic. The Noah with so many walls put up that Alejandro didn’t have a chance to understand how he was really feeling. What was he going to do now?

“I’m sorry I was just looking at the sight behind you..” Alejandro said despite the fact that there was nothing but bridge cables behind him.

Noah gave him a look before sitting back against his seat. The way his movements were fatigued wasn’t lost on Alejandro.

“Alright this is getting boring can you all stop talking because we’re here.” Chris announced as the bus suddenly slowed to a stop, sending them all flying forward.

“Ow..” Tyler muttered, face pressed up against the bus seat.

“Oops.” Chef said with a smirk.

“Now get out… once you make your way to the front of the building I will announce your first clue.” Chris said as they all groaned.

“Great walking.” Noah complained, standing up with eyes trained forward.

“I  don’t think those peppers are mixing with that milk very well..” Owen muttered, squeezing himself out into the aisle. He looked around panicked before fleeing out the open doors.

Courtney wrinkled her nose as she and Gwen followed after him.

“No my nose!! now I can’t smell my sweet Cody..!” Sierra cried out, swatting her hand in the air.

Alejandro decided that the faster they all get off the bus the better. Without another word he stood up and shuffled out into the alley way,

“Lead the way I guess ..” Noah muttered, glancing over at Tyler with a shred of worry. He did look like he had gotten what was probably his third concussion of the show.

“Uh are you okay?” Noah asked.

“Totally..” Tyler said standing up dazed. If they were in a cartoon stars would be circling around his head.

Alejandro sighed and walked down the aisle. If they didn’t hurry the other team would get a head start. He wasn’t going to loose a team member because he didn’t try hard enough. He had worked to hard to achieve the perfect balance.

As he was once again greeted by the crisp weather he turned back to find Tyler stumbling forward, only held up by Noah who wasn’t exactly in peak form himself.

“Sorry..” Tyler said as he finally stood up, shaking his head until his eyes refocused.

“I think something got knocked loose..” he said stretching out the band around his head to feel for damage.

“Come on we don’t have time for this right now..” Noah said bluntly, walking after Owen who headed towards the front of the building they had stopped at.

It was the Tower of London as Alejandro had seen in a variety of books. It looked even more impressive in person with its giant spiral towers and limestone exterior.

Alejandro stared into the distance at the others, picking up his pace until he was right next to Owen. No more set backs he would be winning this challenge with or without anyone’s help. Although maybe Noah’s help would be nice. After all there wasn’t a time Alejandro hadn’t seen him with his nose in a book.

“Finally you guys are slow.” Chris said.

“Anyways I’m sure you’ve noticed the two guys standing over  there..they’re part of the British Royal guard, trained not to react to anything you say or do.”

“Which is why they are the perfect place to hide your first clue.” Chris said trying to shield a grin from his face.

“To put it bluntly if you want to have a shot at finding the Ripper you have to strip them.” he said.

“What?!” They all exclaimed, faces in various forms of shock.

“Oh get over it the clue is hidden somewhere on their persons..good luck!” He said.

“By the way did I mention that you have to sing..?” He said as a high pitched ding cut through the air signaling a musical number.

“You have got to be kidding me..” Alejandro muttered as the rest of his teammates shifted uncomfortably.

“Great more embarrassment this day just can’t get any better..” Noah said eyeing the guard in front of them wearily.

“Any day now guys if one of you doesn’t start singing I’ll randomly pick who I’m eliminating.” Chris said watching them intently.

They all groaned, eyeing one another wearily.

Thankfully Owen cleared his throat and sang a verse to start the song. Why Chris ever thought making teenagers sing was a good idea was beyond him.

“Man it’s creepy how they stand there, and don’t even blink..” he began trying to keep rhythm.

“I don’t wanna see anything he’s got underneath..”he continued reaching his hand out hesitantly before withdrawing it.

Noah rolled his eyes but, drew closer to Owen preparing a verse.

“Hey buddy..can we bribe you to strip yourself down..” he asked, waving his arms around while maintaining a dead look. Alejandro would have laughed if he wasn’t in the middle of planning his escape.

“Yum Yum Happy Go Time Fish..?” Owen offered holding the bag up as Noah scowled.

“Don’t kill him you clown..”

Alejandro watched as the others began singing, face remaining rigid as he tried to consider his options. He didn’t hate singing but, he found it wholly unnecessary. If he could avoid it he would, as long as it didn’t draw suspicion to him.

“No way I can strip him Duncan will freak..” Courtney began.

“Well I’m critically injured-“ Gwen chimed in.

“Okay that’s just weak..” Courtney snapped.

“I made a vow that Cody’s the only one for me..!” Sierra sung, trying to grab Cody as he dodged her advances.

“What does that mean I have to do it? Uh I think Sierra will kill me..” Cody protested as she gave him a look. It was strange to hear an angelic voice come out of Cody, Alejandro was still amazed at how well he held rhythm.

Gwen sighed.”If we’re gonna find that clue…”

“There’s only one thing to do..” Courtney continued.

“Force someone to strip him down…”

“And sorry Cody man that’s you..” Courtney and Gwen said as Sierra hugged Cody protectively.

“Wait don’t, instead let me..” Sierra cried as their team was once again forced into the spotlight.

“Well I guess if we’re gonna find that clue..”

“There only one thing to do..” Noah and Owen both sung.

“Wait we shouldn’t force someone to strip him down another plan will do..” Alejandro butt in, stepping in for Tyler who stared at him vacantly. Keeping everyone from turning on each other was exhausting.

“Noah look let’s figure this out..” Alejandro began trying to keep rhythm.

“No need for us to shout..”

“We’ve all been through enough I think it’s time we make this quick..” he sung, face grating. He was putting in more effort than necessary.

“Yeah we’re gonna find that clue each take a piece of him..” Alejandro said.

“This is just what Chris proposed..” Courtney said as Sierra stripped the guard in front of her.

“No need to bicker strip him down..”

“Or else we’re all screwed..”

“Totally scr ew-ew-ew-ewed..” they all sung. How they held a high note was beyond him.

A moment later the  music cut, causing the entire cast to sigh in relief.

“Finally..” Noah muttered glancing at Alejandro who only gave him a small smile.

“Mi amigos let’s all search a clothing item..” he said directing his attention back to the challenge at hand. Before anyone could protest he snatched the guards hat. It was only fair seeing as he had thought up the idea of cooperation in the first place.

He quickly flipped the hat over, revealing an old fashioned envelope.

“Good news looks like we won’t need to go any further..” Alejandro said with a smirk, fumbling with the envelope before opening the parchment inside.

“Full tot atop the southern spire.” He read quietly to the others.

“Chris really didn’t try at all with these did he?” Noah asked snatching the note and scanning it one more time.

“Come on I know where it is..” he said storming away.

Alejandro watching him walk away for a moment before gesturing  for the rest of the team to follow.

“Noah is so smart..” Owen said with a wide grin.

“Yeah dude..” Tyler said. Alejandro watched his gaze flit between him and Team Amazon like one of those weird cat clocks. What was that all about?

It was probably nothing.

Alejandro didn’t push it further as they ventured into the building. Noah was clearly ready to be done with the challenge as he was nearly at the top of the staircase when  Alejandro walked through the door.

With long strides Alejandro bounded up the steps until he was right next to Noah.

“You walk rather fast for someone who just recovered from a cold..” he said playfully.

“Or you’re just slow..” he rebuked, looking at the door that stood in their way.

“Hopefully Chris will actually have a difficult clue up here..” Noah said as he shoved his body against the thick wooden door. Alejandro wanted to step in and help, seeing the sweat beading on his forehead but, the door was flung open before he could do anything.

“Wait for us..” Owen huffed as Tyler walked next to him. Alejandro wanted to roll his eyes. This wasn’t some leisurely puzzle game.

“Don’t tell me we have to use that..” Noah grumbled, finger outstretched towards a torture device in the center of the room.

“Knowing Chris I’m surprised it’s not worse..”. Alejandro said, observing  the various other devices hanging from the walls.

“Oh..I don’t know about this..” Owen said as he and Tyler got a good look at the room.

“The faster we do this the faster we can find the next clue.” Noah explained observing the stretching machine carefully.

“So who wants to volunteer?” He asked.

“Count me out man..” Tyler said.

“I can’t ruin this physique sports season is coming up..” he said stretching his leg into some sort of yoga pose. Alejandro wanted to tell him that the chance of 1 million dollars would far outweigh the risks but, he was winning the money. There was no other result.

Alejandro looked at the machine in front of him and turned to Noah.

“Maybe you should do it my friend..you are the shortest one on the team after all it may help..” Alejandro teased, feeling joy when Noah glared at him.

“I’m perfectly happy with my height..” Noah said defensively.

“But, seeing as no one else is going to do it..”  he began hopping up on the wooden table, tired expression on his face.

Alejandro wouldn’t deny the annoying twinge of worry he felt at the thought of Noah hurting himself. It was a torture machine for a reason and there was no telling how far they had to stretch him to reveal the next clue.

“Hello..can you hook me up..?” Noah asked breaking his train of thought.

“Are you sure about this little buddy what if you break a bone or something?” Owen asked, genuine concern could be heard in his voice. Alejandro envied his pure unfiltered display of sympathy. He didn’t have to think about the implications of expressing certain things. He just expressed them and everyone, well mostly everyone, loved him.

Alejandro quickly reached for the large metal cuffs and cracked them open; the dust coating the inside of them tickled Alejandro’s nose.

“Your hand mi amigo..” Alejandro asked, extending out his hand. Noah only glanced at him before offering up his wrists. He handled Noah’s arms carefully, placing them inside the cuffs before slamming them shut.

“I got his feet..” Owen said as the metal clamps clicked down on the end as well.

Noah relaxed on the wooden board looking uncomfortable.

“This is going to be fun..” he said looking annoyed that he had gotten himself into the mess in the first place.

“I’ll start turning the wheel.” Alejandro offered, eyes lingering on Noah as his hands brushed over the thick wooden spool.

“Are you ready?” He asked.

“The faster you start the faster we can get the next clue..” he said looking a bit worried for his safety. Alejandro shared his concern.

Trying not to have another thought, Alejandro began pushing the wheel forward, straining his limbs.

“I feel taller already..” Noah said sarcastically as the rope holding both ends of his body went taut.

“Who’s idea was this anyways..how did it even get approved?” Noah muttered as Alejandro pushed the wheel harder.

“That’s gotta hurt man..” Tyler winced, walking closer to the box located at the top of the machine. Alejandro figured the clue would pop out once they had efficiently torn Noah in two.

“Stay strong little buddy I believe in you..” Owen said munching on some sausage that he had snagged from the plane.

“I’m thinking tall thoughts..” he said rolling his eyes. Alejandro could see the grimace on his face as the machine pulled his body up in the air.

Why was he getting so worried, had it been Tyler he wouldn’t have cared. Maybe he should have just forced Tyler to do it. Then he wouldn’t be feeling such unnecessary worry.

Finally, before Noah’s limbs could become dislocated, the box above him opened. Inside was a worn envelope with a red seal. The machine instantly relaxed, Noah wincing as his back touched the ground.

“Ow..” Noah  said as Alejandro grabbed the clue, trying to ignore his present suffering. He was growing to attached. He was meant to help him, not coddle him.

“I got you just hold still..” Owen said.

“No dude wait it’s fine I don’t-“ Noah began before Owen unlocked the cuffs. His body relaxed, a groan echoing around the chamber as he slowly sat up.

“Note to self never volunteer for anything again..” he muttered

“I think you all owe me one..” he said as he stood up.

“We can discuss that later we need to read the clue.” Alejandro explained before a high pitched scream echoed throughout the castle.

“What was that?” Owen whispered.

“Motivation.” Noah responded, eyes wide

“Woah..” Tyler muttered, stumbling back and accidentally hitting the wall. The sound of shattered glass could be heard before the room was coated in a heavy darkness.

“Seriously?” Noah snapped.

Alejandro sighed and placed his hand on the wall to feel his way around the room. He figured the easiest solution would be to open the door that if somehow closed while they were scrambling to complete the challenge. Although, he found it strange that the rooms many light sources had only been reduced to one lantern. Maybe he had been mistaken, the room was already dark making every fine detail hard to make out.

“Don’t worry I’ll open the door..it must have shut at some point.” He explained, shoes tapping against the stone floor as he imagined the room in his mind.

He was close, he knew that. He was beginning to see the light, literally.

His hand gripped the metal handle with a blanketed grin.

Alejandro pressed his body up against the door. It began to move when a sack was placed over him, forcing him to loose his balance.

What the hell was happening?  

Had someone seriously put a sack over him? He struggled around for a moment before giving up. His teammates would notice, right? He should have seen this coming it was all to convenient. Chris had said they weren’t the only ones hunting something. Alejandro hated when Chris was right about things.

He had hope that the rest of his team would figure things out, after all he had somehow dropped the clue as he was shoved into the sack.

That had to count for something.

Alejandro sighed and relaxed against the fabric, feeling every bump as he was carried away. This was going to be a long day.

•••••••••••••••

Noah blinked his eyes rapidly as the door was shoved open, casting the room in light.

“Thanks Ale-“Noah began before noticing how oddly silent the room was.

“Where did he go?” Noah asked looking around. Was this the work of the serial killer they were supposed to be hunting?

His suspicions were confirmed when he spotted an old fashion envelope on the floor, seal roughly opened but, paper still secured inside.

“The Ripper got Al!” Owen cried out dashing towards the door and shoving Noah over in the process.

“Ow-“ he  grumbled as pain racked his body. Volunteering for the rack was a bad idea,  he had just been annoyed that no one was jumping at the challenge. It might have been strategically better to throw the whole thing, and get rid of Alejandro as soon as possible, but he wasn’t going to become another Trent. That wasn’t the condition of his and Heathers alliance regardless. Not to mention that  Alejandro wasn’t stupid, if he started acting weird then red flags would be raised.

It didn’t matter, he had made his bed and now he had to lie in it, even if his decision left him feeling stretched out like some sort of spring.

Noah sighed and walked over to the entrance, picking up the envelope carefully.  Seeing as Alejandro got taken, it was up to him to take charge.

He had no doubt in his leadership abilities but, Alejandro’s presence always overshadowed any attempt he made to control the team. It would have been pointless to butt heads with him anyways seeing as Noah was trying to convince Alejandro that he had won. Of course all his effort would be for nothing if he couldn’t figure out if Heather had done her part; She had been taken before any words could be exchanged. That left one person who he had been silently eyeing since they jumped off the plane.

“Do you think Al’s okay?” Tyler asked breaking the silence that settled after Owen’s departure.

“It doesn’t matter we have to keep moving..I bet Owen’s headed to the dinning hall which is exactly where we need to be.” Noah said having already read the clue.

‘If your teammate can still use their feet bring them down for something to eat’

Why were the clues getting easier? Noah wanted to facepalm. It was basically telling them where to go. Owen already had a head start, he was probably trying to find some sort of comfort food and, they had passed the dinning hall on the way up.

“Oh okay..” Tyler said following after him with a strange expression on his face. He looked like he wanted to say something but, was scared to, it was unsettling to see that something was on his mind. Noah hoped it was the information he wanted to hear.

Noah tried to ignore it in the mean time, forcing Tyler to talk sounded like to much work when they were on a race against the clock. Instead he began walking down the stairs, freezing when he heard the sound of someone coming up the stairwell.

“Come on how did you loose track of Sierra?” Courtney snapped.

“I don’t know she was trying to sneak away with me and then there was this flicker and she was gone” Cody explained. So it had been him screaming.

Noah didn’t particularly care about hearing more so he walked off the staircase where he had seen the dinning hall.

“Uh..wait..one second..” Tyler began once they were away from Courtney and Cody’s arguing.

Noah turned to face him, brow furrowed in annoyance. He would have crossed his arms if not for the pain he felt every time he moved.

“Al’s gone right..? Uh Heather told me to tell you something..but, I couldn’t say anything..” he stammered.

“What is it?” Noah asked wishing to spare the theatrics.

“Don’t tell Al but.. I’ll vote for him during the next elimination ceremony..” Tyler agreed, looking around sporadically. He didn’t have to act so confident about it.

“So Heather did talk to you..” Noah said raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah..talked.” He said nodding his head.

“Okay..don’t let anyone else find out..I mean it..leave the rest to me..” Noah said, gaze landing on the dinning hall where sounds emanated.

“We have to hurry..team Amazons catching up.” Noah said.

“Hey buddy..? Are you in there?” Noah asked slowly walking into the room he had quickly caught a glance at. Now that he could see it in more detail the room was magnificent with banners lining the walls and a fire place in the center. Food covered the tables along with treasure that caught his eye. Owen was standing atop the long table, sausage in hand as dogs surrounded him.

It was embarrassing to admit that he had seen weirder.

“Oh..Noah..wait don’t-“Owen began before all the dogs eyes landed on him.

“Seriously corgis?” Noah asked, jumping up on a table as one made a dive for his ankles. Tyler took a little longer to respond, one grabbing his shoelace and even getting the whole shoe off before he managed to grab onto a suit of armor on the other side of the room.

“I’m good..” he said clumsily, kicking one of the dogs off of his pant leg.

“How did you guys know where to find me?” Owen asked still eating the sausage as one of the dogs barked at him.

“The next clue led here..” Noah explained glancing around the table for any clue as to where the next hint was.

“Have you seen anything that resembles a clue?” Noah asked.

“I don’t know but, I think that dog has something..I may have thrown a couple things to distract them..” Owen chuckled nervously.

Noah glanced over at the sea of corgis, ignoring the one eating Tyler’s shoe and focusing on a golden egg in the corner that one was playing with. A beige piece of paper was sticking out of it.

“Oh come on..” Noah said formulating a plan.

“Alright dude I need you to give me that sausage.” He said stepping over plates until he was next to Owen.

“I’ve already tried feeding them I don’t think it’s the sausage they want..” Owen whispered.

Noah knew otherwise, in Owen’s back pocket was one more roll of sausage that he had seemingly forgot about.

“Here boy.” Noah called out, holding the sausage that he snagged from Owen’s pants.

The dogs eyes all met his in a stalemate until one of them jumped at him. This had gone on long enough.

Noah quickly threw the sausage into a corner of the room. The dogs all dashed over to the source of the overpowering smell. While they were distracted he quickly gathered the decorative cloth that laid on the center of the table. It was big enough to be used for what he had in mind.

Without another thought he held the corners and threw the sheet over the dogs. As expected they didn’t like that he had suddenly turned out the lights. Noah ignored their barks and grabbed the swords held by the suits of armor that surrounded the room,  Tyler’s included. Ignoring the pain he jabbed the swords into different sections of the fabric, securing the dogs under the cloth with ease. He was almost impressed at how well the plan had worked.

Noah took a breath and stepped back, snagging the egg with his hand and reaching for the clue. That would be sure to get him internet points, who was the favorite character now.

“Woah that was crazy..” Tyler said, hopping down from his spot on the suit of armor.

“That’s my little buddy..” Owen said happily, ruffling Noah’s hair. So nothing had changed.

Of course not.

It wasn’t like he expected them to treat him any differently.

Noah’s face returned to a neutral expression as he read the clue in his hand.It was time they win something because of him and not Alejandro. Tyler had agreed to vote for Alejandro during the next elimination ceremony, that didn’t have to be the outcome of this challenge.

“It says that the Rippers most natural place has two levels that make up the space..” he described.

“Sure..easy peasy..” Noah said to mask how badly he was blanking.

“Double decker bus?” Owen suggested, trying to subtly push one of the corgis back under their temporary prison. Clearly Owen had rubbed them the wrong way.

“Yeah..maybe there is a brain in there..you’ve been holding out on me..” Noah said only half joking.

“Holding out? I told you I smuggled some wieners from the plane..” Owen protested reaching into his back pocket only to find it missing.

“I must have dropped it..” he said sadly.

“Eh it’s okay dude I think Chef is making more tomorrow.” Tyler suggested to cheer him up.

Noah rolled his eyes. How had Owen been so helpful a second ago. They had been on the same page but, now it felt like the rest of his team had flipped the book upside down and started scribbling all over it.

Was this how Alejandro felt most of the time?

“Alright we don’t have all day let’s go before another one of those corgis figures out how to escape.” Noah said shoving the clue in his pocket and turning back towards the entrance.

“Come on we’re wining this thing.” He encouraged, echoing Alejandro. Noah didn’t want to admit that leading the team felt good. They could certainly manage without the eel.

A strange aching filled him at the thought. Would the competition even be the same with him gone?

If we everything went well he would know soon enough.

•••••••••••••••

“Well color me surprised..” Chris said as Alejandro was dumped onto the ground.

“Mierda..” he muttered clutching his head. Whoever was tasked with nabbing them had not made being gentle a priority. The entire journey back to the plane had been filled with bumps that made him see stars.

Alejandro finally looked up, observing his new surroundings. He had been taken back to first class along with Heather and Sierra, who currently had her face pressed up against a screen. The screens in question were displaying various footage of the other competitors.

“Welcome to the hall of losers..for all technical purposes you’re dead.” Chris explained with a vacant grin.

“What about the rest of my team?” Alejandro asked looking at the four mini screens for answers.

“Currently trapping my guard dogs..” Chris muttered, a brief look of annoyance crossing his face.

“I paid good money for those corgis too..”

Alejandro finally noticed one screen displaying a dinning hall of sorts with Noah holding a giant tablecloth and Tyler holding onto a suit of armor for dear life.

“I would have thought of that.” Heather commented, watching the feed intently. She must have been sitting in first class watching them for the entire challenge. Alejandro was only thankful he had managed to help somewhat before being taken.

“So what are we supposed to now?” Alejandro questioned, combing through his hair with his fingers. It had become unnecessarily ruffled after being jostled around in a sack. Appearance was everything even when no one particularly cared.

“Well since you’re all losers you get to watch from the sidelines as one of your remaining teammates unmasks the killer.” He said happily. Alejandro was annoyed at how helpless he felt. His team could lose, all because he was stuck in first class watching things unfold. The arrangement had its perks of course, he could hear what his teammates might say about him behind his back. That and maybe he could watch Noah.

To see what he was capable of.

With the Corgis successfully trapped he was talking to Owen, giving him a small grin as he held the clue in his hand. Alejandro enjoyed seeing Noah smile.

“Team Amazon better hurry up I am not going to the elimination ceremony tonight.” Heather scoffed in the corner of the room. Alejandro turned his gaze towards her. She had been staring at him subtly since he’d arrived. He could tell that they weren’t looks of admiration. It was best he address whatever she wanted to say before it got worse, that and Chris had suggested that he kiss her. He would work out the details later.

Alejandro planted a light smile on his face and strolled over to Heather, after glancing into one of first classes silver dishes to ensure his hair was up kept. He toyed with the collar of his white undershirt, exposing more of his bare chest. It was already low cut for a reason but, ‘accidentally’ showing a little more would only help his case. He might as well exploit Heathers crush on him that he had observed on multiple occasions.

In some universe perhaps they would have made a good couple, they were both smart and manipulative after all. The only problem was he was better. While she could brute force her way through social scenarios he could masterfully weave a tale that molded a conversation to his liking. Soon enough she would fall just like all the others, he just had to exploit that one gaping whole in her defenses. That was what truly made him different from her, he had no weaknesses.

It wasn’t necessary to think otherwise.

“So how did the famed Ripper nab you first?” Alejandro asked, eyes twinkling as she involuntarily glanced at his chest.

“I don’t know I was just using the bathroom and then some moron put a sack over my head..” she grumbled, averting her gaze from him. It wouldn’t be that easy but, it was a start.

“Do you have any idea who it was?” He asked slipping back into his normal persona, light and friendly. She knew the truth of course but, to anyone else it would be a conversation between colleagues. If things devolved she would be seen as the bad guy, it was fun to have insurance.

“No they were wearing all black and this stupid top hat..I mean seriously that’s just lame..” she said.

“I see..so you’ve been here that whole time..” He summarized.

“Unfortunately and, next they left me stuck with Sierra who starts freaking out every time Cody’s on screen.” She complained.

“He’s mine don’t you dare touch him..” Sierra yelled out as Gwen put a hand on Cody’s shoulder to stop him from falling down the staircase.

Heather sighed and turned away.

“Is something the matter, you look conflicted?” Alejandro asked testing the waters.

“No..” she said softly before turning back to glare at him.

“I’m just glad you got taken out of the running.. maybe it’ll take you down a couple pegs.” She taunted with a confident smirk returning to her face. She had closed back up. Alejandro knew that there was a chance he would get nothing. He would have to roll with the punches.

“It doesn’t matter it’s already to late for team Amazon Noah’s  already gotten the last clue..”he bragged, face nearing hers. It was a success in his book when she backed up slightly. He couldn’t get information from her but, he could make good on his deal with Chris. It had to be done. Noah was out of the question and,  he wasn’t about to actually put feelings into it. That wasn’t to say he didn’t like Heather but, they were to similar, nearly the same person in fact. They were both equally ready to put others down to win, at least she had been before apparently turning over a new leaf.

“Hmph..I doubt that.” Heather responded with no hint of exaggeration.

“Think what you want my friend but, your team will be the one taking the plunge.” He said gleefully. Her face was red now, she looked conflicted. Alejandro noted the way her eyes darted over to the screens. He couldn’t pin point exactly what she was looking for but, his eyes were drawn to Noah who was walking up the stairs of the double decker bus, Owen on his tail.

“I guess we’ll have to see..” she said confidently, putting her hand up and walking past him. Just like that she had slipped through his grasp.

Alejandro watched her walk away bitterly, hand fixing his shirt collar that was only making him cold.

Alejandro sat back against the wall, lazily watching the screen in front of him. He would have to keep an eye on Heather once the challenge was over. She was planing something. The only question was what.

His gaze narrowed onto Noah who was being attacked by the Ripper look alike. Instead of getting captured he pulled down the figures hat and shoved him backwards into a sack Owen was holding.

He really was quite intelligent, lazy, but intelligent. Noah was also like him, like Heather, but he never did anything. He didn’t waste his time playing with people, maybe he wanted to be liked or maybe it was to much work to be the villain. Alejandro couldn’t tell.

It wasn’t like he knew much about him outside of a couple basic facts. He didn’t even know if what he saw was the real Noah. Was he different outside of the game?  Alejandro reasoned they were all a bit different in real life, toned down at least.

Some part of him wanted to know more about Noah, for curiosity’s sake. Was it a dream to think they could have been friends, or maybe more, had they not met under the specific circumstances.

It was hard to ignore the ache in his heart anytime he thought about what he would eventually have to do to win.

Was José right? Maybe he wasn’t better than him. Had he been in his shoes he wouldn’t have hesitated to shove him off the plane.

Was it time to take a page out of his playbook?

Alejandro wasn’t sure if he should take notes or burn the pages. Could he win without following his advice?

He hoped he could. He wasn’t José, he wasn’t a copycat.

He was Alejandro Burromuerto and, he had his own plans.

One that would show the world that he was the better brother.

•••••••••••••••

The adrenaline rush from their fight against the Ripper hadn’t worn off. Noah kept tapping his arm as they arrived back on the plane. He just felt excited, was it out of character? Noah didn’t particularly care. He hadn’t felt this happy about something since he found out he’d won the election for student council president. Then again that was guaranteed, he had everyone’s vote with his solid school politics.

The thought of his normal life felt like a dream. It had been so long since his life had been relatively normal. Being away on a reality TV show meant that things changed. He had changed. He still wasn’t sure if it was for the better.

Noah took a deep breath as he, Owen, and Tyler faced everyone. Noah holding tightly onto a burlap sack.

“My friends there you are.”Alejandro said looking relived that they had all come back unharmed.

“We caught the Ripper!” Owen blurted out hands raised and a smile worn on his face.

“Yeah what he said.. “ Noah said setting down the moving burlap sack on the ground. His eyes wandered over to Gwen and Courtney who also had someone hidden behind thick fabric.

“Well who caught the Ripper and who caught an imposter?” Chris announced.

“We caught him.” Noah said wasting no time ripping of the sack to reveal the person underneath.

“Old man Jenkins?” They all gasped as the Ripper look alike stared at them.

Chris walked over to him and ripped the mask off of his face revealing a scraggly green skinned contestant underneath.

“Ezekiel?” They all gasped again as he began to mutter incoherently. What was this, Scooby Doo?

“Chef found him in the cargo hold feeding off scraps..I said he could rejoin the competition if he didn’t get caught but, clearly that didn’t happen..” Chris explained nodding to Chef who picked him up and walked towards the planes exit.

They all watched as he was tossed out of the plane screaming.

“Wait if that was the Ripper who did Courtney and Gwen catch?” Heather asked.

“Well Chris said he wanted a criminal and we found one..” Gwen said.

“Although clearly not the right one..” She added chuckling nervously. She quickly ripped the sack off the imposter’s head to reveal someone Noah hadn’t expected to see again.

“Duncan?” everyone gasped in unison.

“Hey thanks for bringing me back on this stupid show now where’s the exit?” He asked with a scowl.

“Not so fast quitter.” Chris said poking him in the chest. Noah only rolled his eyes as Alejandro rejoined them from the other side of the room.

Behind him were four screens that displayed various video feeds. They showed various areas that they had visited during the challenge.

He had been watching everything.

Noah breathed a sigh of relief when Alejandro’s face only displayed happiness. He could have been acting but, there was no hint of malice in his voice or his eyes. Somehow he had squeaked by. Then again it had probably taken some time to transport Alejandro to first class. Noah kept that fact as his insurance in case he wasn’t as good at reading Alejandro as he thought.

“Great work mi amigos we are on a winning streak.” Alejandro began before Chris cut in.

“Not so fast..your team may have caught the Ripper but, Team Amazon caught something far more valuable..Duncan!” Chris began.

“That is why I have decided to give the win to team Amazon.” He said with a smile.

“What?” Noah said, eyes snapping over to Chris.

“That’s not fair..” Owen protested.

“Hey I don’t make the rules..oh wait I do ..to make you feel better I’ll give you Duncan as a consolation prize..” he said shoving him towards them.

“Great another team member.” Noah grumbled as Duncan only glared at him.

“Now Team Chris is Really Really Really Really Hot your elimination ceremony will be held tonight. One of you should say your goodbyes now… this could get messy.”he said with a grin.

“Great..this is just great.” Noah said feeling his adrenaline finally crash. He just wanted to lie down but, now he had to factor Duncan into his plan. There was no way he could screw things up, not now. Even with the low odds Noah knew better than to count him out. There were so many variables it was exhausting.

“That’s not cool dude..” Tyler muttered looking down at his missing shoe with a sad look in his eyes. He had been down ever since he lost it to one of the corgis. Something about them being his favorite pair of white sneakers. Noah wasn’t sure what he was whining about, they looked generic to him.

“Great I just got back and I’m already on the loosing team.” Duncan snapped.

“Let’s not fret my friends I’m sure we can figure this out.” Alejandro suggested trying to keep the peace like he usually did. Noah was suddenly feeling annoyed at how tangled up his emotions were. Was it so hard to just eliminate someone, it was a business transaction, nothing personal.

Noah knew that was far from the truth.

“Look I’m not in the mood I have to go make up with my girlfriend before she kills me so I’ll see you guys tonight..until then don’t talk to me..” Duncan said,  walking over to the Amazons who were celebrating in another corner of the room.

“Uh I should probably go find my spare pair of shoes…” Tyler said seeing the group slowly dissolve.

“I guess that’s my cue to leave as well..” Owen said with a wink aimed at Noah. What was going on in his mind. Noah didn’t want to know the implications of Owen knowing about his difficult feelings for Alejandro. The more he thought about it the more he felt like he was in a cheesy teen drama. He would die before admitting how similar the plots felt.

“You don’t have to-“ Noah pleaded as it fell on deaf ears.

“What is his problem?” Noah asked turning back to Alejandro who looked lost in thought. Maybe he could talk to him just for a little bit, just to quell whatever was causing his cheeks to warm.

“Uh..are you okay..?” Noah asked feeling obligated to ask. He had nearly forgotten that Alejandro had been kidnapped by Ezekiel.

“Ah..yes my journey only gave me a slight concussion and messy hair.” Alejandro said sounding more annoyed at his hair being ruined than potential head trauma.

“Oh no..the humanity.” Noah deadpanned with a small smile.

This was a mistake, he should have been talking to Owen and making sure his plan went smoothly. Instead he was talking to the enemy like they were best friends. No matter how badly Noah wanted to have a casual relationship with Alejandro  it wasn’t going to happen. It was Alejandro he wasn’t someone you could let your guard down with.

“I’m sure you would be absolutely devastated if my perfect face were ruined.” He said messing with his undershirt slightly. It looked accidental but, caused Noah’s eyes to become drawn to the movement.

Noah was afraid to see the color his face had turned.

“I think the world would simply implode.” Noah said as they both drew silent.

“On that same note are you feeling okay my friend it has only been a day since your fever went down?” Alejandro asked. Without any sort of warning he pressed the back of his palm up to his head to check his temperature.

“I-I’m fine.” Noah spit out to distract him from the fact that he enjoyed Alejandro not acting like a complete asshole.

“Let me know if anything changes I will make sure you are fully recovered..it’s only fair we all have an equal chance to win.” He said.

“Yeah..sure if I even make it that far.” He said cynically.

“Nonsense have faith my friend I’m sure things will work out.” Alejandro encouraged like he actually cared. Noah tried to resist the hollow guilt that cropped up in his stomach at Alejandro’s seemingly genuine words.

“Yeah sure..” Noah said.

“Well I need to go take the rest of these pills and then maybe lay down.” Noah said.

“Of course.. don’t worry I’m sure you won’t be eliminated you won the challenge after all.”he said yet again like he wanted him to stay.

Noah tried to keep his eyes trained to Alejandro, searching for any signs that he was lying.

He came up empty.

Noah nodded his head slowly not knowing what else to do.

“I guess.” He finally said bitting back what he really wanted to say. What he really wanted to do when Alejandro was standing there acting so genuine.

So caring.

So..

Nice.

It was just a dream.

A fever dream.

He just needed to wake up.

•••••••••••••••

Cody sat in first class, face pressed up against Sierra who held him like a stuffed animals

“Oh Cody I missed you so much when we were apart.” She whispered into his ear sending a shiver up his spine. How many more episodes would he have to put up with this.

“I can’t believe that you had to deal with that challenge without me I’m so sorry my love I didn’t mean to get kidnapped I should have fought him off.” She said, eyes watering.

Cody only shifted uncomfortably, eyes glancing for an escape route.

“It’s fine Sierra, Courtney and Gwen were still there..” he said as if that would actually stop her from cutting off his oxygen intake.

“Right..” she said gritting her teeth.

“Will you two love birds keep it down I’m trying to get my beauty sleep!” Heather huffed.

Cody suddenly remembered what he had heard, trapped in Sierras grasp. With Heather going to sleep he wouldn’t have another chance to talk to Courtney.

Sierras antics would pale in comparison when he won the million. He had to or else why did he suffer through all of this. He wasn’t going to risk Heather backstabbing the team. Maybe if he exposed her he would get some kind of immunity, something that would protect him from Sierra. Maybe that was wishful thinking brought about by the lack of oxygen to his brain.

“Uh Sierra..” Cody choked out.

“Could you please let go for one second..” he muttered.

“Oh I’m sorry stay with me I didn’t mean to hug so tight..” she said slapping his cheeks lightly until he regained the consciousness he had lost.

“It’s fine I was just wondering if you could get me some food from the dinning hall I haven’t eaten since the challenge started..” he said carefully. He wasn’t sure whether or not she was listen but, it was worth a shot.

“Of course stay right there I’ll be right back!” She said excitedly, jumping up and darting through the first class curtain without another word.

Cody took a second to stretch his limbs and take a deep breath. It was rare that she wasn’t hovered over him like he was some kind of zoo animal. Was it so bad to enjoy it for a moment? Maybe he had wanted someone to like him for him but, Sierra wasn’t exactly what he meant.

When he finally got comfortable enough to move he slowly stood up, eyes scanning the rows for Courtney. She was in the front row scribbling on a piece of paper. Cody assumed it was for Duncan he almost felt bad for the guy, almost. He would take Courtney over Sierra any day.

“Hey Courtney uh-“ Cody began before she started yelling at him.  Maybe he should have led with groveling at her feet.

“Cody go away I’m trying to relax.” She exclaimed.

“Sorry I just need to talk to you before Sierra comes back..”he said acting squeamish.

“What is so important?” She snapped.

Cody sighed. Would she even believe him? It was worth a try.

“Um..I just wanted to tell you that last night I heard Heather taking to someone in economy class.” he began glancing over at Heather who had her eyes shut tight.

“And?” Courtney asked setting her pen down.

“I think she was planning something..an alliance with someone..I don’t know what for exactly but, didn’t she say she had changed?” He asked.

“Ugh that two timing liar..I should have know ..” Courtney snapped.

“Who was it I’m sure it was that slime Alejandro..” she seethed.

“Uh..I don’t know I didn’t get a good look but, it was d-definitely a guy I don’t know whoever it was was talking quiet..” he said frowning.

“Did the other person sound at all like Alejandro?” Courtney asked.

“No..not at all.” He said trying to recall as many details as he could..

Courtney thought for a moment.

“I’ll have a chat with Heather later and see what exactly she’s trying to do.” Courtney said pressing extra hard on her pen as she continued to scribble down notes.

“Don’t tell her I told you okay I don’t want her to kill me..” Cody begged her.

“Calm down I’ll just say I overheard something..now go away from me I don’t feel like getting into a fight with Sierra.” She said rolling her eyes.

Cody nodded his head slowly. At least he had tried.

Cody backtracked until he was once again in his seat. Sierra would be back but, for now he would enjoy the silence.

He glanced up at the curtain only to see a flash of red behind the fabric. Maybe he was more tired than he thought, or seeing things from Sierra’s strangulation earlier.

It had been the same red that was recognizable on Alejandro’s shirt. He shouldn’t have been anywhere near first class.

Cody shook it off and relaxed back against his seat.

The steady strum of the planes engine caused him to drift off until he was once again entrapped in Sierras grasp.

•••••••••••••••

“Look I didn’t want to be back on this *bleep* show.” Duncan snapped, eyes narrowed.

“But, hey you all saw what I did..I don’t regret it either Courtney was becoming a real control freak..besides Gwen’s cute..I could certainly settle for worse..” he said crossing his arms.

“Maybe I’ll stick around a bit..I doubt the team will eliminate me right off the bat I got some weird vibes from everyone anyways..”

“Especially Noah and that new guy Alejandro..am I the only one that senses some romantic tension between them.?” He asked.

“Honestly I don’t even want to know..” he said scowling.

“They can do what they want and I’ll play for my own team..just because I’m on team Chris doesn’t mean I have to care about any of them..” Duncan said.

……….

“I wish I could ignore this....” Alejandro began.

“But, I have to..I have to unravel this.” He continued.

“I didn’t mean to hear Cody blabbing but, I forgot my things in first class..” he muttered looking away from the camera.

“Heather was making deals..I should have known that was what she was hiding..” Alejandro took a moment to stare at the camera.

“She had to have made a deal with Noah..”

“It had to have been him..She wouldn’t make a deal with her own team, Owen would have woken up the entire population of economy class, and Tyler doesn’t have the brain power for anything of that caliber.”  Alejandro clutched his fist tightly, eyebrows furrowed.

“Maldito..” he cursed.

“Why do I feel so betrayed..this was what I would do..I have to give him credit..”Alejandro said. When he turned sunlight covered his face, eyes reflecting the harsh rays.

“He almost slipped one by me.” He said calmly.

“ I have to confront him about this before the elimination ceremony..I can still play damage control.” He explained.

“I don’t know what he thinks but, I am not jumping off this plane..not until I have that brief case in my hand.” Alejandro said slamming his hand down on the confessional counter..

“I will figure this out.” He said with determination.

He wouldn’t admit that the thought of Noah turning on him scared him more than jumping out of the plane. Did Noah really hate him, the feeling then had to be mutual. He couldn’t afford to care. It was foolish to think he could get everything he wanted without consequences.

It was either Noah or the money in a sleek silver brief case.

By the time Alejandro left the confessionals he had made his decision.

Chapter Text

Alejandro paced the hall near the confessionals. His hands were set behind his back and his face was in a perpetual frown. He knew what he had to do but, that didn’t mean he was happy about it.

“Oh hey Al are you waiting to use the stall?” Owen asked behind him, causing him to jump.

Alejandro turned around and gave him a polite grin. It was hard to glue one to his face but, he would manage.

“No my friend it is all yours I am simply ..exercising.” He explained. If he said it with enough confidence maybe Owen would believe it.

“Oh I should have known..I’ll get out of your way hehe..” Owen chuckled nervously opening the door and slipping into the confessional.

Alejandro relaxed the muscles in his face and went back to pacing.

It wasn’t like he was one hundred percent sure of Noah’s plan. He had only assumed given Cody’s conversation with Courtney. She still could have been talking to someone else. Or Cody could have been lying. But, why would he lie? No one knew he was there and he hadn’t even intended to be there if not for the one remaining luggage case he had stashed up above the others. It was still there now, he didn’t feel like retrieving it.

A part of him knew he was correct in his assumption. Heather wouldn’t have made a deal with just anybody. That brought up another question, who’s idea was it? Was Noah really the mastermind behind the whole thing or was that Heather? He needed to know even if it didn’t change what he had to do. If only to quell the storm of uncomfortable emotions brewing in his chest.

What was wrong with him?

This wasn’t how he was supposed to act, he never got thrown off guard he was Alejandro. Even the name rolled off the tongue. He was effortlessly perfect.

“You will not best me amigo.” Alejandro said to himself as he finally left the hallway.

The rational part of him was telling him to wait- that he had time to get under Noah’s skin and turn his little plan on its head- but another part of him propelled his feet forward before he could stop it.He had to know if Noah was seriously going to do it. Had what he done meant nothing? Caring for him when he was sick, making deals with Chris for his benefit. He was beginning to slip up, Burromuertos didn’t slip up. If he was truly better than José he needed to get back on track.

That was why he was talking to Noah. Get him to lay out his plan bare, if he was missing something he would figure it out. It was strategic after all. If all else failed he could always find some way to subdue Noah until the elimination ceremony- leaving plenty of time to persuade the rest of his team to change their vote. Something told him the rational part of him still wasn’t leading the charge. He would deal with it later.

Alejandro stopped in front of the curtain to economy class, fingers itching to rip the curtain off its hinges. He had to remain calm. Calm and proper like José always walked. Not that he had ever watched his brother walk, he didn’t mimic.

Instead of reliving the untapped anger he knew was bubbling under the surface, he carefully pulled the curtain open, eyes roaming the mostly empty cabin for Noah.

He sat in the corner, book in hand. He was alone, perfect.

Alejandro stepped into the room, boots clomping against the thin metal floor until he was standing next to the someone he had spent way to much time caring about.

“Alejandro..” Noah commented, eyes barely sparing him a glance. He was playing koi, Alejandro could admire his acting skills. He thought his little plan was going off without a hitch. How could Alejandro ever figure out his deception?

“You just missed Owen’s attempt to burp the ABC’s…backwards.” He said pain evident on his face.

“That sounds very enlightening..” Alejandro muttered. He couldn’t just barge in, he wasn’t thinking irrationally he had everything under control. Smooth and steady, plant himself into conversation before striking. It was his nature.

“Where have you been anyways?” Noah asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Ah..I was simply grabbing my luggage from first class..Chris helpfully reminded me I had left some behind.” He said, teeth gritted. Helpful was a stretch, Alejandro would have called it a borderline threat when he cornered him outside of the confessionals. Despite saying otherwise Alejandro could tell Chris wanted him to try his luck with Heather a second time. The action only caused him to hate Chris even more.

Thanks to him he was in the right place at the right time. Thanks to him he wasn’t floundering.

“Well did you loose it along the way?” Noah asked making an obvious observation. Why was he overthinking such a simply conversation he had done this countless times before. Control the conversation, take it by the reigns. Breathe Alejandro.

In and out.

Don’t do something you’ll regret.

Noah meant nothing to him, he was another pawn who was going to get dropped out of the plane. It may not have been his originally plan but, he could adapt.

It didn’t matter that he felt a hollow feeling in his chest every time Noah’s warm brown eyes glanced his way. He no longer acknowledged the small movements Noah made when he spoke or the genuine enjoyment in his voice. That was all a lie. If Noah hated him then Alejandro had to hate him right back. He had to.

Why did the idea feel impossible?

“Hey..not to sound contrived but, are you doing okay?” Noah asked raising his eyebrow.

“I mean you haven’t even commented on this..” He said, dramatically pointing to the red sweater vest that hugged his torso. Alejandro looked it over, trying to find some sort of fault with it- with him. It was impossible he was looking through a broken lens, one that only had eyes for Noah. How had he fallen so hard, he had simply wanted to befriend him maybe use him until he wore thin- like Tyler. Like he wanted to do to Owen.

How had his plan spiraled out of control?

Take the reigns Alejandro it’s not difficult. Josè’s voice. It sounded just like him.

“Ah sorry mi amigo I was lost in thought..” Alejandro explained, thumbing the necklace that hung low on his neck. He could do this, no feelings involved. Get the information and get out. Ignore the beating of his own heart or the panicked pace of his breathing.

It wasn’t that difficult.

Alejandro knew he was seriously going to freak out if he didn’t get his tornado of emotions under control. It felt like a pendulum was swinging between each emotional extreme- anger to love and back again. He didn’t want either of them he just wanted to be calm. It was rare that he overthought things so much, it was scary. The thoughts were flying faster and he couldn’t stop them, he needed to gain control.

No, he was in control.

In and out.

Breathe deep.

“It’s fine if you don’t want to talk I get it.. I could use some peace and quiet anyways those pills Chef gave me are making my head ring..” Noah complained massaging the roof of his nose.

“No..we should talk.” Alejandro said shoving his words along a set path. He slowly relaxed his posture, letting his smile drop. He couldn’t keep up this act anymore the false smiles got tiring around Noah. Especially since they were both using them now.

“Alright.” Noah said, doggy earring a page in his book and slipping it under his arm. Finally full attention was directed on him. Alejandro would have smiled if he wasn’t fighting against every emotion that had currently bubbled to the surface.

“What is it?” He asked. Why did it look like he actually cared? That was a stupid thought.

“I may have heard something potentially damaging to our team...something Team Amazon was whispering about right before I walked into first class..” He explained like it wasn’t painful to think about. What would have happened if he had waited a minute? A second?

“Oh do tell.” Noah said in his signature full tone. Alejandro would have exhaled through his nose if talking didn’t feel like walking on a thin tight rope. How did people think through the thick array of thoughts? This was why he didn’t grow attached. It’s strategical he kept telling himself, over and over again in his head.

He was tying up loose ends, making sure Noah’s alliance wouldn’t throw him for a loop.

Another one that is.

“It was something Cody said when rambling to Courtney..apparently Sierra left him alone for a moment-“ Alejandro began. Noah would regret ever thinking of aligning himself with Heather. It was the logical part of him thinking that, he didn’t need revenge. Kicking him off the plane would be revenge enough. Why was the thought not as satisfying as it normally was? Alejandro knew the reason.

“Wow I’m surprised Courtney was actually talking to him..last time I checked he got left out of most of the Team Amazon meetings.” Noah commented

“Yes well I think there was a reason she was hearing him out..he was saying some…interesting things..” he said.

“And those things were?” Noah asked. He looked bored, he didn’t get to look like that. He deserved to over think everything just like Alejandro was doing. That was what manipulation was, careful placement. Alejandro was an expert at it, he had to be if he was going to win. This was just a hurdle.

“Apparently Heather is making alliances again..” he said, eyes glazing over.

The words settled into the air like smoke. Alejandro nearly grinned when Noah’s eyes shifted away from his. He was getting nervous, Noah knew what he was talking about.

Alejandro wasn’t sure if he was happy at the information he received. The foolish part of him had been holding out hoping that what he had heard was a lie. That he had somehow misheard. That wasn’t how things went for him. They never did.

“Is anyone really surprised it’s Heather I’m just shocked anyone would actually go for it..” Noah said carefully. Alejandro could see sweat beading on his forehead. Had it been any other conversation he would have asked if he was feeling okay.

At the moment he didn’t care.

He couldn’t care.

“Yes.. very few people would stoop to that level.” Alejandro said glaring at Noah with daggers in his eyes. He was beginning to understand how much Alejandro was hurting. How much pain he was in despite the attempts to push it down. His betrayal hurt. Alejandro felt heavy, he felt blindsided.

No, he had lost focus and almost paid the price. This was a consequence for his actions. Of which he was righting, getting the burning pile of rubbish he called a plan back on the track. Once again pulling the strings

“In fact..” he said, hand moving to his hip to make his presence feel more intimidating. He was almost there, so close.

“I can only think of one person who she would want to make a deal with..”he said. Noah was squirming now. Good, he was feeling guilt- maybe shame at his trickery. Was it fair to relish in his misery? Alejandro didn’t care, he was miserable. It didn’t matter that his reaction proved that he cared.

It didn’t matter because Noah didn’t care.

He couldn’t care.

It was the only way Alejandro could still stomach the pain.

“I mean clearly her own team hates her..and I wouldn’t exactly count Tyler and Owen as alliance types..”he finished, putting the nail in the coffin. If it was unclear before it wasn’t anymore. Noah could put the pieces together.

“Oh.”he said like he had read something interesting in his book and not just heard Alejandro’s words.

How could he?

Noah sighed, standing up to meet Alejandro’s gaze- pausing to steady himself against the uneven ground. Alejandro couldn’t help but reach his hand out to make sure he didn’t fall. Thankfully the logical part of him pulled it back before he could touch Noah’s shoulder. He couldn’t get close now. He had him, he would get his information.

“Well..” he said rubbing the back of his head.

“This is awkward.”

Alejandro wanted to punch something. Anything really to diffuse the anger that was bubbling up to the surface, the pain. He couldn’t imagine the conversation going smoothly when it felt so deafening.

“Sí.” Alejandro said crossing his arms. He furrowed his brow as Noah took a breath.

“What were you trying to do mi amigo.” His words were stale, eyes gleaming as Noah began to buckle.

“Why would I bother telling you clearly you already know everything.” Noah said, eyes dull. He was back. He had put up his walls again and even Alejandro couldn’t get past them. He should have predicted this.

“I want to hear it from you..before I crush your little plan to dust.” He spit out. The niceties were discarded now. Noah would tell him and then he would destroy it. That was what he was good at- although he was usually less blunt.

Noah’s eyes betrayed his face. How dare he doubt his plan now. He didn’t get to do that it was to late. Alejandro ignored the conflicted feelings that rose up.

Noah hated him.

There was no other way to put it.

“Yeah sure I’ll just tell you the inner workings of my master plan that’s a smart decision Alejandro.” He said. The way Noah said his name made Alejandro hesitate. It was so impersonal, he hated it.

“You are unbelievable..” Alejandro spit out. The pain was at the surface now. He couldn’t do anything to stop it. It hurt.

It hurt so much. Was this how betrayal felt? It felt like a knife had stabbed him in the back.

“Congratulations you tried your best..I almost missed your scheming while I was busy caring for you..”his voice dripped with venom. Alejandro clutched his fist to his side. It was all for nothing.

“It wasn’t- it wasn’t like that.” Noah said defensively. Why did he care how Alejandro interpreted it? The facts spoke for themselves. Noah had never cared he wanted him gone. Alejandro knew it was hypocritical to feel betrayed. He had done it to everyone else.

“Then how was it?”He asked, voice stagnant

“It doesn’t matter..you’ve already made up your mind…” he said taking a shaky breath.

“Why do you care so much what I think anyways? Don’t pretend you weren’t trying to do the exact same thing.” Noah snapped. Alejandro could have sworn he saw hurt in Noah’s eyes. Good but, it did nothing to dull the anger and pain he was feeling.

“I never wanted you gone.” He spit out not caring whether Noah would believe him. The words were meant to make him squirm. Make the guilt eat him up so Noah felt as terrible as he did.

“Sure and you just cared so much about my health bending over backwards for me..sorry if that’s not a little bit suspicious..we hadn’t even talked before this week.” Noah explained keeping a cool head. Would it kill him to show some sort of emotion, something so Alejandro could understand how he was really feeling.

“I cared about you because you were my teammate nothing more..don’t pretend like you’re special.” He said bitterly if only to hurt him. That seemed to be the intent now no matter how far most of his words were from the truth.

Noah faltered. His words had their desired effect. Alejandro only felt worse. The conversation was supposed to be strategic. He should have just listened to himself and ignored Noah. Then he wouldn’t be feeling like this.

“Right..of course how stupid of me to think anyone could like me.” Noah finally said. Alejandro could hear the hurt in his voice now.

“This was inevitable..don’t pretend like you’re innocent I saw what you did to the others..this is how it had to be...” Noah said, sticking up his nose.

“My goal was never to toss you off the plane use your brain my friend!” Alejandro said yet again. Why was he doing this, why did he care so much that Noah knew? He wasn’t saying it to guilt him anymore. He just wanted him to understand. Understand how horrible he felt.

No it didn’t matter because Noah hated him.

Why else would he align himself with Heather?

Why else would he stick close to him and even befriend him?

There were no feelings

None that Alejandro cared to mention as he stared into Noah’s eyes. The ones that were filled with hurt and confusion. They were feeling the same now. It didn’t make him feel any better. He just wanted to understand no matter how much he knew he deserved it.

“If you didn’t want to toss me off the plane then what did you want? For me to join your band of musketeers? For me to vote with you? I’m not going to be used out of convenience!” Noah protested, Alejandro finally hearing him. Hearing his side of things.

“I was just getting a head start before you tossed me off the plane like the others.” He said still defending his actions. Alejandro understood but, he couldn’t rid himself of the anger. Anger at Noah and anger at himself for ever thinking he could have Noah under his thumb.

“Maldito just take responsibility for what you did.” Alejandro said, voice breaking.

“Not until you stop pretending that you cared..you can just say it I already know you want me gone.” Noah snapped with the same malice.

“You are infuriating!” Alejandro raged extending his hands out. What were they even arguing about anymore Alejandro felt lost.

“Says the guy who always has some kind of alternative intent..if you wanted me to admit that I fell for it then I will..I actually thought you cared okay until Heather snapped me out of it..”Noah said his back pressed up against the wall. He had fallen for it? There had been a moment when he wasn’t acting? Alejandro hated the hope that flooded him. It was a useless feeling that lessened the harsh tone of his voice.

“If I wanted you gone I would have gone behind your back and unraveled your plan with you being none the wiser…Instead my first thought was to confront you…” He said softly. This was foolish. He had done all this just for some piece of mind.

Noah’s eyes were trained on his, the silence was filled by the beating of his own heart.

“I didn’t think of that.” He said carefully. His brow furrowed in thought.

“Did you really want me gone?” Alejandro asked. He hated how vulnerable the question sounded. He just needed a straight answer. The anger had finally diffused leaving him tired.

Noah shifted uncomfortably at his question, eyes roaming around the room before landing square on him. They were inches apart now, noses nearly touching. All he wanted to do was lean in closer.Why was he fighting it so hard? Why were they both so intent on arguing. That time he had spent next to Noah, talking to him really hearing him. Alejandro wished he could go back. He wanted it to be like that again. He wanted to be friends with him again- he wanted more than that.

“No...”Noah finally admitted.

“I never wanted you gone…it just… had to be that way…” he said, voice barely above a whisper.

They were both staring at each other, eyes connected and breathing in sync.

Alejandro no longer felt angry at Noah. He had started the mind games when he barged his way into his life intent on gaining his vote. Now here he was, cheeks flushed and heart nearly beating out of his chest at the thought of taking another step forward. At the acceptance of the fact that he liked him.

No words were exchanged yet they both leaned in closer, unspoken longing shared between them. He just wanted to be close to him, to share one genuine moment with him before he had to figure out how to salvage the tangled web of alliances that had been formed due to him.

All thought was banished from his head when their lips finally connected. It was like magic, fireworks exploding between them, body heat making him feel all warm and tingly. He felt perfect, at peace for a moment and not overpowered by anger or pain. It was nice, it was what he had wanted to do for a while. He didn’t want it to end. He wanted him closer, as close as he could be.

Noah didn’t seem to protest as Alejandro wrapped his arms around his waist, holding him tight so that they were practically hugging. Noah did the same, arms slinking behind Alejandro’s back. The second Noah’s skin brushed against him he felt like melting. It was perfect. Amazing even, he had never kissed someone like this before. It was different, comforting not needy. The feeling was addictive- was this how kissing was supposed to feel?

Alejandro knew he probably would have stayed like that forever if not for the burning in his lungs.

Noah pulled back first, eyes glancing over at him looking conflicted. He was cute when he was flustered, Alejandro couldn’t help the smile that worked its way onto his face.

"I--that was... what was,..“Noah stammered. It was rare to see him at a loss for words.

Alejandro didn't know how to respond, afraid to see how red his face had turned. Why did he suddenly feel self conscious. .

“Was this your real plan to seduce me?” He asked out of the blue. Alejandro understood after he laid witness to Bridgette and Leshawna’s untimely exit but, it still stung. To make matters worse he had no idea what to do next. He didn’t particularly feel like crushing Noah’s plan to dust anymore but, that would leave him vulnerable. Kissing him had been a moment of weakness, his sense of self preservation was back. It had to be, only he wanted to do it again, and again. He had felt so strongly about kissing someone before.

“If that were true I wouldn’t have had to put in all that work..you did most of it yourself querido.” He finally responded. The word slipped out before he could stop it but, he couldn’t deny an opportunity to tease him. It almost reminded him of hours earlier when they had been talking like old friends. Before everything got seriously screwed up.

“I’m taking Spanish for my four year language credit just so you know..I can translate that.”Noah snapped raising his eyebrow.

“So you don’t mind me calling you darling to your face..I didn’t take you for the type to enjoy pet names.” He said slyly.

“Alright enough this doesn’t change anything..You’re still..You can’t stay..”he said sounding like he was trying to convince himself of the fact.

Alejandro put a hand to his chin. Maybe feelings were clouding his thoughts but, he wanted a chance. A possibility that maybe he could work things out. They had both started out with the aim to manipulate the other, it wasn’t exactly the foundation for a healthy relationship. Alejandro wished for a moment that he didn’t have carefully laid out plans meant to propel him to the top. He wished that he could just enjoy the competition and not obsess over his chances of winning. But, that wasn’t who he was, wasn’t what he had come to do.

Maybe he could compromise? It wasn’t fair that he couldn’t get what he wanted. Screw José he would have picked one. Alejandro could do both.

“But, what if you waited?” He suggested. They were both in a stalemate. Alejandro could tell Noah was conflicted, if he could hold off one of their eliminations then he could potentially solve things.

“What are you talking about?”Noah asked crossing his arms.

“I’m saying give me a chance..if someone else gets eliminated this time we will have more time to come to a stable agreement..no?” He offered up, extending out an olive branch.

Noah looked him up and down, eyes lingering on the necklace he was currently toying with. It was a nervous habit that José had endlessly tormented him for. Alejandro had always wanted to snap back at him and recount the various times he had woken up with sweat on his face from a bad dream. But, he didn’t. He was better than him, at least he had to tell himself that.

“Who said I wanted to come to some sort of agreement..you’re an eel no offense and there’s no way I can trust you..”He argued.

“I’m only asking you to wait..one ceremony…”he said sounding more hopeful than he intended.

Noah looked conflicted, finger tapping on his arm with a frown set on his face.

“I’ll bite why should I not just eliminate you.. why should I wait and give you a chance to turn the team against me?” He asked.

Alejandro looked at him uncomfortably.

“Tengo muchas ganas de besarte de nuevo..”Alejandro muttered.

“Because I don’t want to fight with you mi amigo..I was telling the truth I only wanted an alliance with you with the rest of the team..I did manipulate the others but, that was to make sure we all stayed in the competition.” He explained.

Noah sighed.

“So what you wanted me to happily vote with you until I served my purpose?”

“No…I changed my mind..”he said. It was ironic that he had walked into economy class with the sole mission of hurting Noah when now he was explaining the reasons why Noah should trust him. He would make this work, put duck tape on the gapping hole.

“Okay.”He said bluntly, surprising Alejandro.

“I meant what I said I didn’t want to eliminate you but, I didn’t see another option..”He said.

“But, I still can’t just trust you… so I need insurance..”Noah said, looking like a lightbulb had appeared over his head. Alejandro swallowed down the anxiety that was floating to the surface once again.

“I’ll talk to Tyler get him to change his vote for the ceremony tonight..meanwhile you’ll sit here and trust that I’m doing it..no talking to anyone and no alliances in the meantime..”he said.

“Then we can talk about whatever..this..is..”he said looking like he was trying hard not to stare at him.

Trust Noah?

How could he?

He barely trusted himself. Why had he fumbled the ball he should have just listened to the logical part of his brain. Yet before he could think of all the reasons why he should be hesitant to trust him he said something stupid. Something that had definitely not originated in the part of his brain dedicated to logic and reasoning.

“Deal.”

Noah looked surprised, his face settling back into a neutral expression.

“Okay.”He said carefully.

That was that.

What was he doing?

He was throwing his plan in the garbage.

••••••••••••••••

“Um sir I have some news f-for you.”

“How many times have I told you not to interrupt my sauna time intern?” Chris snapped, grip tightening on the cup of coffee in his hand. They had just finished filming the challenge so he had retired to his private quarters to make use of his personalized hot tub. The jets were on and he had just gotten comfy when one of his newest interns decided to pester him.

“B-but you told me to give you an update if A-Alejandro did what he promised..”The intern stammered.

“Oh why didn’t you tell me hand it over.” Chris snapped.

“Of course.” He said forking over the I-pad he had clutched in his hand.

Chris played around with it for a moment before displaying a video of Alejandro and Noah in economy class. A smile coated his face.

“I will admit I did not expect this.” He said laughing to himself.

They looked like they were arguing, eyes roaming until they inched closer to each other. Chris only smiled wider, the feed becoming his only focus.

“Interesting ..”he said as they finally kissed.

“Why didn’t you tell me sooner intern everyone loves a good enemies to lovers story!”he said.

“Al blew this out of the water do you know what it’s going to do to the ratings intern?”He asked excitedly.

“Uh I don’t know sir..”he muttered.

“It will mean more money in your pocket.” He said.

“Uh sir I don’t get paid.” The intern complained.

“Quiet this is my moment...” He said shoving the tablet back towards the intern.

“Whatever you say should I prepare the elimination ceremony?” The intern asked.

“Yes..but make it quick I can’t wait to much longer.” He said gleefully. Making a deal with Alejandro had paid off big time. That meant he could finally afford that mansion he had had his eye on.

Life couldn’t be more perfect.

••••••••••••••••

Noah walked down the hall, hands jammed into his pockets and face dead set in a frown.

What had he just done.

What the hell had he just done?

Noah wanted to smack himself. Who was he Bridgette? When did he just kiss someone, let alone the guy he had been plotting to eliminate.

Now here he was helping him, out of the goodness of his heart. Maybe it was because of his heart.

It would be so easy to just leave things how they were, leave Alejandro floundering as the votes stacked up against him. That would be the smarter play but, Noah wasn’t thinking smarter.

He wasn’t thinking with his head at all. That was the real issue.

Why did it matter even if he jumped over the hurdle that was Alejandro someone else down the line would probably eliminate him, it wasn’t like that many people liked him.

It was the smarter play to keep Alejandro around, he was a strong player sure but, he could protect him until Noah decided he had served his purpose. Noah hated how much the thought sounded like Alejandro. He was nothing like that eel.

It wasn’t like the kiss meant anything anyways it had been a heat of the moment thing. It wasn’t like he could resist when Alejandro was batting those stupidly long eye lashes and staring at him with those annoyingly handsome mint green eyes. Closing the gap had almost been second nature. Never mind that his eyes lit up like some sort of sparkler the second they embraced, or that his skin tingled when Alejandro pulled him closer. That didn’t matter, all it was was embarrassing. He would have died if anyone had walked in on them. He wasn’t someone Alejandro was going to seduce- he wasn’t going to just melt at the guys touch. Noah voted to ignore the fact that he did.

Right now he had more important things to worry about, mainly finding Tyler. Noah had never told Alejandro who he planned on eliminating but, the answer was obvious. Duncan. It wasn’t because the guy was annoying, no it was purely strategical.

Noah was shaken out of his thoughts by a door being slammed open, by Duncan none the less.

That was strange, what was he doing near first class? He had said he was going to talk to Courtney before ditching them. Noah wondered how that went having seen the way she acted when he was brought up. Noah wasn’t particularly in the mood to delve into that drama . In fact a part of him hoped Duncan would just ignore him like he usually did as they passed each other in the hallway.

Unfortunately that didn’t seem to be the case as Duncan caught him staring.

“What are you looking at nerd?” He snapped, smile dropping from his face. Why did he insist on being annoying. He hadn’t even said anything.

“Your piercings..what are they a cry for attention from mommy?” He quipped crossing his arms. Duncan could have taken his head off but, Noah couldn’t resist taunting him. If his new plan went well he wouldn’t have to worry about him for long.

“You’re lucky I’m in a good mood or you would be dead.” He said sauntering closer to him with his arms raised. Noah would have rolled his eyes if the sight wasn’t unintentional hilarious.

“This Is you in a good mood?” Noah questioned, stepping back slightly.

“You wanna try that again?”Duncan threatened. Why did he start taunting him, Noah wasn’t afraid but inconvenienced. Maybe he was trying to distract himself from what had just happened.

“Not particularly..”Noah muttered glancing at him apathetically. He had gotten him backed against a wall, fist outstretched and ready to take a swing.

“You do know battery is a crime?” Noah said.

“Do I look like I care about that.”

“If you want my true opinion you look like you listened to one My Chemical Romance song and made it your whole personality.” He said firing off insults. It was almost to easy. Noah hated Duncans attitude, it was clearly him trying to prove to everyone that he was tough. It wasn’t believable. He may have been a delinquent but, it was an obvious cry for attention. Noah didn’t think Duncan would appreciate such a thought provoking analysis of his internal psyche at the moment.

“Look I don’t want to talk to you and you don’t want to talk to me..”he said before Duncan could actually punch him.

“Can you just tell me if you’ve seen Tyler I’m trying to find him.”Noah said putting his hands up Instinctively. He had always been curious what it felt like to get punched in the face but, he wasn’t ready to find out in the present moment.

“ I already told you just because we’re in the same team doesn’t mean I care about your little fetch quest.. He spit out.

“I’m not asking you to care but do you really feel like getting arrested because you decided to express your feelings through violence.” Noah asked.

Duncan looked especially ticked off at Noah’s latest comment.

“Whatever..”He said shoving Noah against the wall and backing up.

“I don’t know I’m not his babysitter ask Gwen..or Courtney..ugh really any of them I’m going back to economy class.” He said storming away before Noah could get another word out.

“Ow..”he muttered, watching him leave. Was it so hard to be civil? Now his head was ringing like he was just shoved onto a tilt a whirl.

Normally Noah would’ve picked up on Duncan’s sudden freak out when mentioning Gwen but, he had already seen them making eyes at each other. He didn’t particularly feel like diving into that when he was dealing with his own romantic drama. It felt weird to think about. The kiss hadn’t been awful. In fact it had been wonderful. It also might have been his first real kiss- with a guy none the less- but it didn’t matter. He didn’t care it was insignificant.

Why did it have to be him of all people?

Noah ignored the thoughts bouncing around in his head, arguing that walking into first class would be more productive than thinking. He would have to deal with his feelings on the matter later, right now he just wanted to focus on something else. Something that would distract him from realizing how in love he had fallen.

Why had he gotten himself into this mess again?

It didn’t matter. Noah shook his head and pushed through the first class curtain, almost dreading the stares he would receive.

“Noah what are you doing in here this is the winners only section.”Courtney said smugly. Of course she was the first to speak.

“Aw then what are you guys doing in here cause last I checked you didn’t catch the ripper only a washed up punk who tries to pretend he’s tough.”Noah said with a fake high pitched tone. He couldn’t help the smile that grew on his face with Courtney’s frown. Noah figured Duncan was probably the reason she was acting extra hostile. Usually she was tolerable when she wasn’t acting like she was better than everyone else.

“Alright enough..why are you here I thought you already got your stuff?”Gwen asked, eyes drifting over to Courtney guiltily. Noah felt slightly better at the sight. It was refreshing to know he wasn’t the only one suffering from conflicting feelings.

“I just need to find Tyler I figured you’ve seen him if he isn’t in the back half of the plane.” Noah explained having already done a walkthrough where he tried desperately to ignore Alejandros presence in his mind.

“Oh oh oh I saw him!” Sierra said standing up with Cody curled in her arms. He looked like a babydoll, arms flailing around helplessly. Noah had no complaints, he deserved it for ruining his carefully laid plan.

Now he was starting to sound like that eel. He didn’t want to admit that they were similar, it would mean that he was also in the wrong.

“Where?” Noah asked crossing his arms.

“I think he was using the confessional in the cockpit he walked through here earlier!” Sierra said.

“Thanks..”Noah said, glaring at Cody who looked to him for help. It seemed like Sierra would be revenge enough. It wasn’t like he had done it on purpose but, it was still annoying. It seemed like everything was annoying him lately.

Noah stormed passed the rest of Team Amazon, ignoring the smell of fresh baked cookies and the sounds of cheery conversation. They should have won, it wasn’t fair. Then again the entire show wasn’t fair, the rules were bent any time they suited Chris’ agenda.

The transition from carpeted floor to metal cued Noah into the fact that he had arrived. He had nearly forgotten about the camera placed hastily in the cockpit. Chris had mentioned it but, Noah doubted any of them had used it more than once. It was a long walk and it meant dealing with the engines noise.

Noah opened the door and looked around the small space. Tyler was crouched down on a loose crate, mouth open and eyes rolled back in his head.

“How long has he been out?” Noah asked. How he was even asleep with all the turbulence amazed him.

“The kid came up here an hour ago, said two words about Lindsey and then passed out..”Chef said eyes on the sky in front of him. Noah was thankful that he was actually piloting the plane and not the infamous blow up dummy other wise known as auto pilot.

“Figures..I need to talk to him so..”Noah said snapping his finger in front of Tyler’s face.

“Huh..wha..?”He said, head jolting up and eyes spinning like a top.

“Noah? Man how long was I out for?”

“Around an hour..next time try sleeping where it’s easier to find you.” Noah said, annoyance lacing his voice.

“Sorry..I was daydreaming about Lindsey and next thing I know my lights go out..”he said shaking his head.

“Right.. come on I need to talk to you about what you said during the challenge.” Noah said as Tyler slowly stood up, legs shaking.

Noah opened the door and stepped out into the hall, holding it for Tyler who stumbled out.

“Look there’s been a change of plans.” Noah said as the door shut with a loud clang.

“I need you to vote for Duncan now..no questions asked.”he said bluntly.

“What why..? If Alejandro finds out I tried to vote for him he’ll vote me out..”Tyler said eyes widening. Noah hated when he actually put thought into something.

“Look he already knows Cody went and blabbed mine and Heathers little plan..I’m dealing with it. In the mean time Al’s staying for now..”Noah said

“Cody..? How did he even-“

“It doesn’t matter right now just vote for Duncan he’s a wildcard..I can promise your safety if you do.” Noah said. It wasn’t exactly the truth but, the team had no reason to target Tyler at the present moment. Besides as long as they kept winning challenges they would be fine.

Tyler looked conflicted for a moment but nodded his head.

“Alright dude..that guy is bad news..”he said.

Noah slipped on a relaxed smile.

“He won’t know what hit him.”

Just like that he had helped Alejandro. It felt nearly effortless yet all he could imagine was his smirk as he tossed Noah out of the plane. Why was he helping the eel? So he could kiss him again? That didn’t seem like a good motivator. Yet Alejandro could have backstabbed him.

He could have gotten rid of him.

That had to count for something.

And it did.

Even if Noah was intent on denying that fact.

••••••••••••••••

Heather wouldn’t have considered herself a villain.

Not anymore.

In the first season maybe but, she had changed-forcefully. Despite that she was still living with the consequences of her actions. It was annoying- Infuriating even. To top it all off she had to put up with a guy that was even better at scheming than she was. How could no one see how fake he was.

It was a never ending battle to make her idiot teammates aware of what he had done to most of Team Victory. The irony of the name never got old.

Her latest attempt to get rid of the slime had involved dipping her toes back into the water and making an alliance. It wouldn’t have been her first choice to make one with the guy she knew almost nothing about but, she would take what she could get. He hated Alejandro as much as she did.

And she hated him a lot.

To make matters better she barely had to do any work, pick apart Tyler’s straw man argument holding Alejandro up and her job was done. Now she could finally relax as he was thrown off the plane. She would have considered it a job well done if she didn’t hear Noah asking for Tyler.

She had been trying to get her beauty sleep when his signature dead voice echoed across the cabin. Before she got a chance to rip her face mask off he was gone. Now she sat hunched over in her seat, eyes glued to the curtain separating first class from the cockpit. There was only so much plane to hang out in so he had to pass back through eventually.

Normally she would have ignored any disturbance but, her ears instantly perked up hearing Noah in first class. To make things more confusing he wanted to talk to Tyler. Heather found that suspicious in itself. She had done the work and Tyler had already told Noah he had changed his alliance so what more was there to discuss? Noah wasn’t someone to talk with people frivolously, there had to be a reason.

Speak of the devil Heather thought to herself as the familiar sound of footsteps echoed down the hall. Heather’s eyes narrowed as Noah came into sight.

“You.”Heather said stepping into the alley way.

“What do you want?” Noah asked maintaining his normal sarcastic tone.

“Why are you talking to Tyler?” Heather asked dragging him into the built in kitchen located in first class before the others could eavesdrop. She didn’t need them finding out about her alliance. They already didn’t trust her, little did they know she was doing it for their own good. It was a thankless job.

“I can’t talk to a guy that’s on my team now?” Noah asked annoying her with how nonchalant he was acting. He wasn’t an idiot and neither was she. They both understood that.

Heather only rolled her eyes.

“You don’t just talk to people tell me what you were really doing..”

Noah sighed, a look of guilt crossing over his features.

“Look there’s been a small change of plans..it doesn’t effect you that much anyways.”he said.

“You changed the plan? What did that slime ball say to you?”She asked growing enraged. How dare he, everything was going perfectly and he had to ruin it. She should have warned him more about Alejandro.

“Nothing..he just found out about it..”Noah said.

“And how did that happen?” She asked.

“He heard Cody who heard us talking about it in economy class last night.” Noah delivered with dead eyes.

“That little weasel..did Alejandro really just tell you about what he found out? No offense but, that doesn’t seem like him.”She said. What exactly was he planning, had she been in his shoes she wouldn’t have told a soul and instead turned the plan on its head.

“Yeah..he just told me..”Noah said looking like he was stopping himself from bringing up more details. That in itself was suspicious.

“Then what’s your new plan?”She asked knowing that was the question she really needed an answer to.

“We’re all going to vote for Duncan..it’s smarter to keep Alejandro in as long as I keep an eye on him..”Noah said.

“Smarter? Hello are you still in there it’s Alejandro you can’t trust him.” Heather hissed. What exactly had he said that was causing Noah to act so recklessly. Heather had a couple ideas, none of which she particularly liked.

“I know what I’m doing..he said he didn’t want to eliminate me so I’m giving him one chance..the next elimination ceremony it’s anyone’s guess who goes home.” Noah said carefully.

“So you’re giving him a free pass because he did one good thing?”

“He did take care of me when I had a cold..more than anyone else..”Noah said.

“I told you he was trying to use you..ugh am I the only sane one around here.” Heather huffed.

“I’m not saying I believe him I’m just giving him breathing room…I was trying to go behind his back and vote him off..he could have done something ten times worse to me once he found out.” Heather knew it was hopeless. Noah was enamored with him. Of course. She could understand the feeling. It was why she hated him so much, he was too charming, too perfect. Like Justin if he had half a brain.

“Fine…he’s not on my team so really I could care less…”Heather said trying to act like she hadn’t been looking forward to their plan succeeding.

“I have everything under control I promise.. I wasn’t going to back out of it but, plans change.” Noah said.

“Whatever..just do me a favor and keep him away from me.” She said glaring daggers at him.

“Sure I’ll try…but this plan will benefit your team too..with Duncan gone maybe you can avoid any love triangle drama between Gwen and Courtney.” He suggested actually looking sympathetic.

“What are you talking about?” Heather asked.

“I thought it was obvious..Gwen has a crush on Duncan and I’m pretty sure they kissed a little while ago..it’s probably for the best Courtney doesn’t find out.”

Heather narrowed her eyes.

“You’ve got to be kidding me..”she said.

“I wish I was..now can I leave I still have to find Owen and I bet Chris is itching to start the elimination ceremony as soon as possible.”Noah said.

“Just go..”She said stepping back.

Noah nodded his head.

“It was not nice talking to you.” He said with a small smile.

“The feeling is mutual..”She snapped as he walked away.

How had she failed again? Alejandro was like a cockroach, he always came back no matter what plan she made. It was annoying.

But, right now she had bigger things to worry about.

Like teaching Cody a lesson for running his mouth.

And maybe explaining to the rest of the team why she was still making alliances.

Was a million dollars worth all the hassle?

Sometimes Heather wasn’t sure.

••••••••••••••••

“Hey dude can you do me a favor?” Noah whispered to Owen as they all lined up outside the confessionals.

The time had slipped through his fingers, one second he was getting cornered by Heather and the next Chris had announced that it was time over the intercoms.

Heather had been rightfully angry but, Noah was thankful he didn’t have to initiate the conversation, at least he could check it off his never ending to do list. Now all he had to do was press the stamp to Duncan’s face. It wasn’t like it was hard, the guy wanted to leave anyways and who was Noah to stop him.

A part of him was thankful they had been given time in-between challenges. Sure it had given Alejandro time to discover his plan but, it had also forced Noah to admit the truth. He liked Alejandro’s company, even if he couldn’t be trusted. He had said that he didn’t want Noah gone either. Had he really over reacted? It wasn’t like he was completely at fault for plotting against him when Alejandro had practically handed most of the other competitors their parachutes. But, he couldn’t deny the fact that Alejandro had sacrificed control of the situation to garner whether or not Noah wished him gone. That had to mean something. He knew it meant something. Alejandro was handing over control to him, that was a step in gaining his trust.

There was also the obvious which was that Alejandro had cared for him while he had been sick. No one else hovered over him while he slept to make sure he didn’t get any worse. Not even Owen had gone that far and Noah would have considered him a friend.

Noah hated how debate still raged in his mind. Who cared anymore he was tired of the overthinking. They had made up, or at least come to some sort of agreement. That was the best he could hope for.

Maybe he could even kiss him again.

Noah wanted to facepalm as the thought popped up in his mind. Heather was partly right, he was letting his feelings get in the way, he needed to focus. His feelings could be addressed when an elimination ceremony wasn’t on the horizon.

Noah finally realized that he had actually initiated a conversation.

“Little buddy are you okay?” Owen asked.

“Fine..I need you to vote for Duncan okay..Tyler and Alejandro are going to and you’re the final vote..”Noah whispered.

“Are you sure what if it’s a reward challenge?”Owen asked looking afraid.

“Don’t worry even if it is he won’t find out but, he’s throwing off the team balance..besides he’s the reason we lost.”Noah muttered.

Owen frowned.

“Okay..he does kinda scare me a bit..”Owen said softly.

“Thanks.”Noah said feeling the final pieces click into place. This was going to work.

The afterwords he would deal with later.

Noah finally got to the front of the line. A smile was on his face as he walked into the confessional, passports laid out in front of him.

“There’s been a change of plans..sorry Duncan but, you said it yourself that you don’t want to be here.” Noah said stamping his face harshly.

“Besides I’m only sparing you from Courtney’s wrath once she finds out you kissed Gwen.” He said shrugging.

The camera stared back at him unmoving. Chris on the other side with a growing smile on his face.

••••••••••••••••

“Alright passengers Thank you for coming to tonight’s elimination ceremony..I have been anxiously awaiting this one!” Chris said happily.

‘Me too’ Alejandro thought to himself, bouncing his knee up and down to quell the feelings that had worked their way to the forefront of his features.

It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Noah.

He didn’t.

But it was hard to be fully convinced when Noah had just plotted to throw him off the plan. He should have been impressed that Noah’s plan had almost been executed to perfection but, it only left him in a tangled mess once again. Why did they have to meet under these conditions? Now he had the ever present threat of elimination dangling in his face any time he even thought about getting close to Noah again. They had come to a stalemate but, neither had discussed what was to come next.

Alejandro glanced towards Noah who was staring straight ahead- mouth a thin line. Why did he have to fall for the one person who was decidedly bad at expressing emotions outside of fear or annoyance.

Now he was stuck in wait, only his hope to keep him from freaking out as names were called. Had Noah followed through or had he left him out to dry?

“Can we get this over with I have things to do.” Duncan snapped, arms crossed. Alejandro agreed with him for once.

“Oh enough whining you ditched all the other challenges because you didn’t want to sing.” Noah said rolling his eyes.

“At least I have some dignity.” Duncan muttered.

“What dignity?” Noah asked with a grin. He had no fear, was him bickering with Duncan a good sign or a bad one? Alejandro clenched his fist at his side. Had he not been idiotic he could have been relaxing, waiting for Noah’s name to be called for the drop of shame.

Who was he kidding that would have almost been worse, seeing the look of shock on his face morph into apathy. Alejandro wasn’t sure what the best outcome would be. Strategically he knew but, his feelings were serving as a road block for any alternative plans. Why did love have to be so infuriating.

“Okay enough we’re here to kick someone off the plane not argue about who’s more badass.” Chris said gesturing to the camera man who looked shocked.

“I’ll have to edit that out sir..”he said.

“That’s what I paid you for.” Chris said before staring back down at his cue cards.

“Now with Duncan there is an odd number sooo someone should be going home tonight…no ties or we will have a problem..” He said happily.

“Oh no..”Owen said looking nervous. Did he know about Noah’s supposed plan. Alejandro wasn’t even sure who he asked to eliminate although seeing his interaction with Duncan he could guess. The guys return did cause them to loose the challenge.

“Oh yes it’s about time Chris is really x4 hot gets a taste of the elimination ceremony.” Chris said chuckling like some sort of supervillain. Next thing he knew a cat would be in his lap.

“Did you seriously simplify a name that boosted your ego?”Noah asked lazily.

“Hey I’m a little crunched for time the other reallys are implied.” He said dropping his smile.

Noah only rolled his eyes.

Alejandro wanted to provide a polite chuckle in response to their banter but, his knee wouldn’t stop bouncing. Alejandro placed his hand on his knee before the motion could get any faster. He needed to calm down, everything would work itself out- Chris wouldn’t eliminate him even if he did happen to get enough votes. He still owed him for his help- even if he had followed through on the kiss. Alejandro wondered if it was a bad sign that Chris hadn’t brought it up yet. Then again barely anytime had passed. The thought of what had happened still made him feel all fuzzy. He didn’t regret it. He couldn’t regret it when it felt so perfect.

“Now the contestants who get to live another day are as follows…”Chris said grinning madly.

“Owen, Tyler and Alejandro!” He announced throwing the bags harshly managing to smack Tyler in the face. What was it his fourth concussion of the show? It didn’t matter relief flooded Alejandro. Noah had done it. He wanted him to stay. He would have hugged him if that wouldn’t illicit protesting from him.

“Oh the drama..I thought you had a little plan to ensure that this wouldn’t be happening.” Chris teased, glancing at Noah. Of course he had known.

“Plans change..”Noah said dryly.

“Plans huh?” Chris said giving him a wink. Alejandro didn’t like to think about Chris watching them kiss over a monitor. It felt creepy.

“It’s strategic.”Noah said in response, rolling his eyes at Chris’ obvious attempts to bait him.

“Can you just get to it?” Duncan snapped.

“You’re no fun but, fine I think most of you know who’s going home anyways” he said sighing.

“With almost no dramatic tension behind it the final bag goes to….”

Alejandro watched the back of Noah’s head intently. He would be safe, what was this irrational fear. It was why he had made such a stupid decision in confronting him.

Eliminating him seemed like torture.

“Noah!” Chris said tossing it carefully. Noah reached up, fingers grazing it only for it to bounce against Alejandro’s chest and land in his lap.

“Oops..”Chris said smirking.

Noah made no move to retrieve his bag, intent on staring forward. Alejandro wished he had chose a place where he could more clearly observe his facial features.

“Well unfortunately that means Duncan is gone..it’s bitter sweet but, I don’t need you anymore I have a new couple to torture.”he said waving his hand around frivolously.

“Good I didn’t need this show anyways..I got what I came for.” He said with an arrogant huff.

“Glad you agree I’ll be sure to keep that confessional tape for later when I want to give Courtney a little extra motivation.” Chris said, eyes twinkling.

“Don’t you dare she doesn’t need to know!” Duncan yelled jumping down from the bleachers, fists clenched.

“Chef any day now..”Chris said, holding the cue cards above his head in defense.

Chef rolled his eyes and grabbed Duncan, securing him to the parachute and shoving him towards the door.

“You don’t want to do this..”Duncan threatened.

“Lucky for me you won’t have your lawyer girlfriend much longer.” Chris said waving happily as Duncan was finally shoved out of the plane.

“Serves him right.” Noah said still ignoring Alejandro. What was going on with him?

“Well that was eventful..thanks for making this an entertaining elimination ceremony Noah.” Chris said.

“Oh and I can’t forget Alejandro thanks for holding up your end of the bargain the fans are going to go wild.” Chris said winking.

Alejandro froze, eyes turning towards Noah before he could think things through. His warm brown eyes stared back at him in confusion.

“Oops did I say bargain my bad..”he said chuckling like he had just made an offensive joke.

“Bargain?”Noah asked, thoughts racing behind his eyes.

“It’s nothing.” Alejandro said carefully. Revealing his little deal with Chris would only make him look bad. He was already on uneven footing with Noah this would only make it worse.

“Yeah sure..I think I have a right to know I just spared you from the elimination ceremony..”he said backing Alejandro into a corner. This must have been Chris’ plan all along to cause even more drama. Hadn’t the argument been enough? It was never enough.

“I don’t know man he’s making a lot of sense.” Chris said pushing them along and confirming Alejandro’s suspicions..

“The deal doesn’t matter it’s over with now.” He said gritting his teeth in defense.

“Is it though? If I’m not mistaken it was more than a kiss I asked for?” Chris said smiling. Alejandro understood Duncan’s sentiments now. He would have very well walked over to him with balled fists if he didn’t have a thing called self control.

“You are not helping.” Alejandro snapped instead..

“Who said I wanted to help?” He asked chuckling.

Alejandro faced Noah, eyes heavy.

“Can someone just tell me what deal you’re talking about?” Noah asked looking annoyed.

“He promised to kiss somebody for me..all the couples keep getting eliminated so I needed some new drama.” Chris explained.

“Did you seriously make a deal with him just so I would get over the stupid cold faster?” He asked, momentarily forgoing the most alarming information in the sentence.

“Uh did we miss something dudes?”Tyler asked as soon as Noah finished.

“They both kissed in economy class earlier.” Chris helpfully explained.

“No way.” Tyler and Owen both said.

Alejandro decided to ignore the peanut gallery, focusing on trying to talk to Noah- explain things to him.

“Sí it was in the teams best interest.” He said.

“Yeah sure..the team.”Noah said staring at him now with startlingly wide eyes.

“Why does it matter anyways it is not impacting things now.”he asked carefully.

“I think it impacts me if it was the reason you kissed me..”he said sounding vulnerable. That was why he was so intent on knowing the truth. Because he cared despite the fact that he tried to pretend that he didn’t with the emotionless expressions and body language.

“The deal had no impact on what happened.” Alejandro said, face equally serious.

“Then why didn’t you tell me what you were doing?” He asked.

“Because you wouldn’t have accepted my help if you knew what it took to get it.. it was hard convincing you to take the medicine I borrowed” Alejandro said putting his hands on his other knee before it started bouncing. He really needed to calm himself down.

“Yeah because unlike anyone else I know…I figured that you probably had alternative intentions the second you told me where you got the medicine..you stuck out your neck for me just to get me on your side that’s what you said.” Noah said summarizing their earlier argument in its entirety.

“That doesn’t change the reality my friend..I did it without thinking because I cared about you.. fue una estupidez..” Alejandro admitted sighing into his hand.

“You two really do sound like an old married couple..maybe I jumped the gun a bit on you and Heather..” Chris said.

“Does anyone have any idea what they’re even arguing about?” Chef asked shutting the door and observing the scene.

“I think Noah is mad at Al for making a deal with Chris to help him and Alejandro is mad that Noah is getting mad about it..”Owen said chuckling nervously as both Alejandro and Noah turned to glare at him.

“That’s not what we’re arguing about..”Noah muttered.

“It kind of is my friend..”Alejandro admitted looking a bit embarrassed.

Noah sighed resigning himself to his fate.

“Look..I don’t trust you but, you tried to trust me..I guess that has to count for something.” He said finally melting his cold exterior- slightly.

“And I liked it.”He said clearly referring to the kiss.

“I don’t really want it to be a one time thing..”he said shuffling awkwardly in place.

“Does that mean you aren’t completely rejecting me?” He asked carefully.

“Im giving this a chance ..as long as we leave the drama out of the competition..I still want to win.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Of course I wouldn’t expect anything less from you mi amor.” Alejandro teased.

“Oh come on that’s no fun!” Chris protested.

“This is the cutest thing ever.” Owen whispered, eyes sparkling.

“I couldn’t have said it better myself.” Chef said wiping away a loose tear as he smacked Chris with his spatula.

“No pet names or I will make sure you get kicked off the plane.” Noah threatened ignoring the others comments.

“Of course I forgot..”Alejandro said, butterflies returning to his stomach at the sight of Noah’s blush..

“Alright this was great content but, since the ceremonies over I’m going to have to kick you out now.. Chef ready the spatula!” Chris said sourly.

“Sorry but I have things to do..” He said pulling out the long metal stick.

“Umm I’m out of here dudes..”Tyler said sprinting for the exit only to slam into the wall next to the door.

“I think he has a concussion..”Noah said looking concerned.

“I’m so happy for you little buddy I didn’t know that you kissed Al!” Owen said winking as they all stood up from the bleachers- threat of Chef hanging in the air.

“I didn’t exactly plan on it..”Noah said, footsteps echoing on the metal.

“Mi amigo is quite a good kisser..” Alejandro teased raising an eyebrow.

“I’m done with this conversation.” Noah said, face tinted red as he sped ahead of them.

“Ah but you can’t avoid your new boyfriend forever.” He said.

“I didn’t agree to that term I just said I’d give whatever this is a shot..that’s all..until it crashes and burns.”

“You’re very pessimistic my friend.” Alejandro said.

“Yeah it’s one of my best personality traits.” He muttered

“Are we going to bicker every time we interact from now on?” Alejandro asked.

“It’s called a conversation and you started it.” He protested.

“Whatever you say.” Alejandro said humming to himself. The banter was only a means to distract himself from the fact that Noah had actually said yes to staying friends- not just friends but, more than that.

It felt weird but, he wasn’t complaining He hadn’t expected Noah to fold so easily. It made him feel guilty for ever plotting to manipulate him. It had been what started the whole mess.

The only downside to his agreement were the anxious thoughts that filled his head. What would his parents say, what would José say? Alejandro was also afraid that Noah would distract him from his goal but, they had taken care of that hadn’t they? The relationship wouldn’t interfere with the competition. He was glad Noah agreed.

It was possible to have both Noah and the million dollars. At least that was his plan. In the mean time he would cherish the relationship that had suddenly blossomed. It would mean he would get to kiss Noah again.

He hadn’t thought he would get to do that again.

Alejandro was happy.

Happier than he had been in a while.

That had to count for something?

••••••••••••••••

Noah still wasn’t sure about his answer. Maybe he had been resisting but, it was hard to say no to Alejandro’s advances. If asked under the scrutiny of the anvil he would have said he wanted to be more than friends with Alejandro a hindered times over but, emotions were hard to express.

He had to be cautious and even after saying yes he still knew better than to immediately warm up to him.

After all he had just found out that Alejandro had made a deal with Chris. For his sake. He should have questioned it but, he had been to out of it. It was abundantly clear that Alejandro cared about him, he had even found out about his alliance with Heather and confronted him first.

The old Alejandro would have gone behind his back and stabbed him. It would have been easy he had gotten to cocky. Now he walked next to him with his annoyingly attractive smirk like he had just won an arcade game. Noah couldn’t exactly complain as he wore the same smile.

“For what it’s worth I’m sorry about the alliance…even if you were trying to gain my trust for a stupid vote..”he said.

“No..I started this mess..it just hurt when I realized the same thing I did to people was happening to me.”

“It is a bit hypocritical.”Noah commented. He wasn’t sure exactly where they were walking. Owen had ditched them almost as soon as he exited the ceremony room, saying he had to use the bathroom. Noah knew he just didn’t want to intrude.

“Yes well I didn’t expect you to be so cunning.” Alejandro said.

“Hey you practically championed the term cunning.” Noah protested.

“Just to let you know I’m still winning the money.” Alejandro said. Noah knew that he wouldn’t give up on his goal. He had already taken that factor into account

“I wish you luck then maybe I’ll share some with you when I win.” He said.

“So we are rivals.” He said raising an eyebrow.

“Obviously..”

“Rivals with benefit?” Alejandro added on causing Noah to exhale out of his nose.

“I guess..”Noah said stopping mid walk. Had he really agreed to this? It still felt like a dream, getting sick, talking to him, betraying him, kissing him. The old him would have just sat back and watched the drama unfold, now he felt like he was actually living.

“Well may the best contestant win mi amor.”Alejandro said extending his hand out.

“You really want to seal the deal with a handshake?” Noah asked raising his eyebrow.

“Not particularly.”He said bluntly.

“Good because I didn’t deal with all that just so we can shake hands.” He deadpanned, Alejandro’s face brightening at his dull voice.

“Was that teasing I heard I thought you could only be sarcastic.” He asked.

“I like to try a variety of one liners.”He said rolling his eyes.

“You’re very attractive when you’re insulting people.” Alejandro said leaning closer to him.

“I try.” Noah said looking at his green eyes. They were sparkling. Alejandro was trustworthy. He had to be. If he wasn’t them that could be dealt with later. Noah knew kissing him again was all he had been thinking about. It was addictive, of course he was an amazing kisser.

He had to have hope that things would last long enough to fully enjoy them. Maybe he was sick of ignoring the butterflies or arguing with him when they were both at fault. He was sick of the manipulation and the drama when all he wanted to do was kiss his stupid face.

The arrangement wasn’t perfect but, it was good enough.

Good enough for Noah to kiss Alejandro before he could get the chance.

Good enough for him to wrap his arms around him tightly, almost afraid to let go.

Sure he was sick of all the fighting but he was the most sick of ignoring things.

Ignoring the reality that he liked Alejandro.

And Alejandro liked him back.