Chapter 102

Lucy White curled up in her sleeping bag as a tiny furry creature instinctively burrowed into her arms.

Morning sunlight filtered through the leaves as Lucy carefully tucked the little one into her pocket. Leading the group to a crystal-clear stream, everyone freshened up before embarking on another day of foraging.

Luck was on their side. They caught three wild chickens and discovered a dozen ripe coconuts beneath a palm tree. When Lucy announced coconut chicken stew for lunch, cheers erupted.

"At this rate, we'll be out of the forest by afternoon," Lucy estimated. Seven days—the perfect duration for this island survival challenge.

The aroma of coconut stew soon filled the air. Milky broth bubbled in the pot while the others prepped ingredients.

"This smells incredible!"

"Only Lucy could pull this off."

"I can't wait to taste it!"

The group gathered around, eagerly serving themselves. Tender chicken paired with sweet coconut broth earned unanimous praise.

Daniel Miller downed two bowls, smacking his lips. "Lucy, marry me. This cooking alone is worth it."

"Dream on. You're not good enough for her," Olivia Davis teased.

"Exactly. Lucy deserves a young heartthrob," Robert Lee added.

Michael Johnson's grip tightened around his bamboo bowl. He sipped his soup, masking his irritation.

Just then, a tiny head peeked from Lucy's pocket.

"What's that?" Olivia gasped.

Everyone crowded around as Lucy gently produced the creature, feeding it coconut broth from a bamboo spoon. It nuzzled her palm affectionately after drinking.

"Oh my god! It's adorable!" Olivia clutched her chest. "A monkey? But it's so small!"

Robert's eyes widened. "Wait... is that an ink monkey?"

Lucy nodded. "Sharp eyes, Robert."

"Ink monkey?" Daniel looked baffled.

Robert launched into an excited explanation. The group gaped when they learned it could grind ink, consume it, and even live in a brush holder.

The director rushed over, eyes gleaming. "Lucy, this is—"

"Rescued it last night in the woods," Lucy said simply. "Its mother entrusted it to me."

The creature seemed to understand, nuzzling her palm again.

"Well..." The director hesitated, then smiled. "Of course you can keep it. This is international waters, and you saved it. Perfectly reasonable."

"Thank you." Lucy stroked its fur. "You're my little treasure now."

The ink monkey chirped softly in response. Bathed in sunlight, the pair created a heartwarming scene no one could look away from.