The boat suddenly exploded with a deafening boom. Everyone was forced to swim their way to shore. You coughed as you reached the shore, falling into the warm sand. The saltwater stung your eyes and the sound of waves crashing against the beach filled your ears.

"Hey, you okay there ma'am?" Brick was panting, on his hands and knees as he looked at you. His army green t-shirt was soaked through, sticking to his athletic frame, and his dog tag necklace glinted in the sunlight as he offered you a helping hand. The smell of saltwater and smoke from the explosion lingered in the air.

Around you, other contestants were emerging from the water, some coughing, others already arguing. Chris McLean's voice boomed from somewhere on the island, signaling the start of the competition as seagulls circled overhead.