onlypinks

NARRATOR: Welcome to Love Island and an unforgettable summer of love here in Fiji where the water is crystal clear, the cocktails are always cold, and the dating history of this year's Islanders is about to become everyone's business. For the next several weeks, a group of ridiculously attractive singles will swap the real world for paradise. They're here for romance. They're here for adventure. And let's be honest... they're probably here for a little bit of drama. And you’re in control. Voting on all sorts of decisions that impact the show in real time. How cool is that! Ultimately, you’ll decide which couple wins the $100,000 prize. One villa. A handful of hopeful romantics. Countless chances to find love. And our first Islander...

-

The car door swings shut behind you with a muted thud and heat kisses your skin almost instantly. It’s that warm, tropical air scented with saltwater and blooming frangipani. You pause for half a second, sunglasses slipping down the bridge of your nose as your gaze travels upward.

The villa. It's somehow even bigger than what you expected. Cream-colored stone, towering glass windows reflecting the afternoon sun, palm trees swaying around the property as if they were specifically planted to frame every camera angle. Somewhere nearby, waves lap gently against the shore, close enough that the ocean feels like part of the villa itself.

You can't stop smiling as you mutter in quiet awe. “This is insane...”

You take one last steadying breath before walking toward the entrance. The heels you’re wearing are taller than ones you usually wear. You manage to keep your balance as you strut through the stone path.

“Oh my God!” A cheerful voice greets you.

Your head whipped to the side and there, a brunette standing beside a small round table practically lights up the moment she spots you. Tight curls hair flowing down to her waist. Brown eyes that are just as warm and welcoming as her smile. The neon pink bikini makes a great contrast to her perfect tan skin.

“Hello, there!” she says, rushing toward you before you can even walk down the wooden platform.

You laugh at her enthusiasm. “Oh my God, hi!”

The two of you meet halfway, exchanging a quick hug before pulling back just enough for the customary cheek-to-cheek kiss. You take her hand, holding it in yours as you introduce yourself.

“I’m Mandy,” she introduces herself back with a bright grin. “Girl, you are gorgeous.”

You get her vibe right away. Bright and cheerful, unapologetically confident. You laugh, already feeling some of the nerves melt away. “And so are you,” you easily says.

“Stop.”

“No, seriously."

She takes your other hand and shakes both hands in excitement. “I'm so glad another girl is here because I was standing here by myself pretending I wasn't nervous.”

“I was literally talking to myself in the car.”

“No way!” her eyes widen in disbelief.

“I swear.”

The two of you dissolve into laughter. The awkwardness disappears almost immediately. She gestures toward the small welcome table positioned beneath a pergola. A silver bucket filled with ice cradles a bottle of champagne, the flutes already waiting.

“Let’s pop the champagne already!”

You pick up the bottle. “Oh, absolutely.”

She braces herself dramatically, scrunching her nose, eyes narrowed.

However, you change your mind in the next second, pushing the bottle to her. “You do the honors.”

“I have no idea how,” Mandy innocently admits, then hugs your side in embarrassment.

You both break into laughter again. Once you recovered, you twist the wire cage loose. “I feel like this is going to explode.”

Mandy takes another step back, hands pressed against her ears. “It is absolutely going to explode.”

You carefully ease the cork and POP! The cork shoots into the air and both of you shriek in reaction. The champagne foams over the neck of the bottle and you hurriedly putting away to avoid spilling on you.

“It actually scared me!” Mandy says, holding two flutes in each hand now.

“You screamed before it even popped!” you say, still laughing.

“I know!” Mandy admits, also still laughing.

You manage to pour two uneven glasses, bubbles spilling over the rims. Then you hand one to Mandy.

She raises hers immediately. “To finding love?”

You lift yours against hers with a bright smile. “To finding love.”

The glasses clink in a delicate chime. You tilt your head up just slight as you take a sip. The champagne is crisp, cold, and surprisingly good.

Mandy nods approvingly after swallowing the wine. Then looks around. “Should we snoop?”

“We absolutely should,” you agree, nodding.

Leaving the champagne behind, the two of you wander toward the terrace. Every few steps another excited gasp escapes one of you. The beach. The Pool. The open gym. The open showers. The colorful lounge chairs and throw pillows. 

“Really love the pool,” you comment almost absentmindedly.

“Yeah. The size of it!” Mandy adds in her bright excitement.

You both move to the open kitchen. Marble countertops. A fridge already stocked. The massive living area overlooking the pool, also with lots of colorful throw pillows.

“I'd like to move in, please?” Mandy playfully says.

“I think we're technically moving in,” you say, throwing your hair to the back.

The realization hangs between you for a second as Mandy looks at you with wide, surprised eyes. “We're actually living here.”

“We're on Love Island, baby,” you say it out loud for the first time.

The words don't feel real, even to you.

Mandy squeals again as she throws her arms around you for another excited hug. You squeal along with her without a shred of embarrassment. Her excitement is just that contagious.

Hand in hand, the two of you race toward the fire pit.

-

YOU: Honestly, the men in my area are rather… [puts thumbs down] [laughs] and that’s why I’m here in Fiji looking for love. [laughs] I’m looking for a guy that is my boyfriend, but also my best friend. [smiles] I’m a girl’s girl. If I get close with a girl in the villa, I’m never going to step on her toes. The last two relationships I had… [sighs] they were messy. They both cheated on me [grimaces] My friends said I have my radar on for heartbreakers only [awkwardly laughs] Ever since my last breakup, I just… haven’t been ready to open up to someone and kind of give my all [solemnly nods] I think I’m ready to find a guy that has good personality, and actually get to know them. And not just go for the looks. [puts hands together] Find me a man, please! [laughs]

-

The villa doesn't stay quiet for long. The distant hum of another engine rolls up the driveway.

Every head turns toward the entrance.

“Oh!” Mandy grabs your forearm as she squeals again. “Another one's here!”

Without even thinking, the two of you hurry toward the entrance, champagne flutes still in hand. You hold each other’s hands like you’re either bracing yourselves or just trying to ground each other.

A blonde steps into the villa, one hand shielding her eyes from the afternoon sun before spotting the two of you waiting at the top of the path. The first thing that you notice are her big, hazel eyes and the way her smile slowly blooming on her heart-shaped face the second she notices both of you.

“There she is!” Mandy cheers.

The newcomer laughs as she walks up to you both. “Oh my God! I’m nervous,” she says and the shaky voice explains it.

The three of you meet halfway, exchanging hugs and quick cheek kisses as if you'd known each other far longer than thirty seconds. You and Mandy introduce yourself right away.

“I’m Kat,” she introduces herself with a sheepish smile before looking between the two of you. “I already love the vibes.”

“We've literally known each other for five minutes,” you playfully say.

“And we’re already sisters,” Mandy adds without a beat.

She laughs as she tucks a hair behind her ear. Her eyes drift over the two of you. “And can I just say? You're both absolutely stunning.”

“When I saw you walk in, I was like...” Mandy fans herself exaggeratedly. “'Right. Competition.'”

You groan dramatically. “Please stop right there cause you're also gorgeous.”

“Because we’re sisters from different parents,” Mandy easily jokes.

The three of you burst into laughter as Mandy once again clings to your side as she laughs.

You glance toward the champagne. “Let’s get you a glass of champagne.”

“Oh, definitely.”

By the time everyone has topped up their flutes, another girl is already making its way toward the villa and the three of you immediately squeal in unison.

“Here comes another one!” Mandy mutters while squeezing your hand.

Soon, another girl joins the growing circle. Then another. Each arrival follows the same pattern. Excited laughter. Warm hugs. Cheek kisses. Within minutes, compliments are flying so quickly none of you can keep up.

One by one, the Original Girls begin filling the place. The once empty villa is now filled with lively noises, excited chatter, abandoned champagne flutes, and endless conversation.

Someone refills everyone's glasses.

“Ladies...” Chastity, the latest to walk into the villa, calls everyone as she raises her champagne flute in the air. “To us!”

The chatter dies down as everyone instinctively lifts their flute.

“To finding love!” You chime in.

“And to not embarrassing ourselves on national television,” Bianca, another blond with stunning blue eyes, playfully adds.

Laughter erupts at that.

“That’s rather… impossible,” Mandy responds.

More laughter erupts. Despite it, the glasses clink together in the middle. A tiny celebration before anything has even begun.

“Cheers!”

The champagne tastes sweeter this time. Or maybe everything simply tastes better now that the villa is beginning to feel alive. Like children set loose in an amusement park, the group wanders through the villa together. Another throws herself dramatically onto one of the daybeds.

As you continue wandering through the villa, conversations naturally split into smaller groups. Some talk about where they're from. Others joke about how awkward the first coupling is going to be.

“What if nobody fancies me?”

“Oh, stop.”

“You'll be fine.”

“What if I fancy someone who likes someone else?”

“I've already accepted that we're all probably going to step on each other's toes at some point.”

A brief silence follows and then someone shrugs. “I guess that's kind of the point.”

It earns a chorus of understanding hums.

No one wants to hurt anyone. But everyone came here hoping to leave with someone.

Those two things don't always go hand in hand.

-

YOU: They're all… [lowly whistles] ridiculously beautiful.I knew everyone would be attractive. It's Love Island. [softly chuckles]But then you meet them in person and you're like... [eyes widen] 'Oh. Okay. Everyone's actually gorgeous’.But… [dramatically pauses] I don't like unnecessary drama, and I definitely don't want another girl thinking I was trying to take something away from her. [smiles] And if that happens, I just hope we can all be honest with each other. But it’s probably not going to be that simple, right? [winces] [laughs]

-

The afternoon sun hangs low enough to cast everything in warm gold as the girls are now gathered in the firepit, still chatting and enjoying the bubbly wine in between. Then the unmistakable sound of heels clicking against the stone patio sends every conversation to stop.

When someone emerges from the entrance, Mandy points right at her, “She’s here!”

Walking through the villa doors with an effortless smile is Jaz, dressed in a flowing ivory dress that catches the ocean breeze. She looks every bit as glamorous as she does on television, somehow making the entire villa brighten just by stepping into it.

“Hello, girls!”

The girls practically jump to their feet to welcome the host of the show.

Jaz laughs warmly, opening her arms. “Who’s ready for a summer of love?”

The question gets answered by various responds. But mostly, excited noises. The girls crowd around her one by one, exchanging hugs and cheek kisses before settling back into a loose semicircle around the outdoor seating area.

She takes a seat on the end of the sofa, looking around and taking in every nervous smile. “First of all,” she says, beaming. “Welcome to Love Island.”

A fresh wave of cheers erupts.

“How are we all feeling?”

“So excited!” Mandy immediately answers.

“Nervous!” Kat sheepishly answers.

“A little bit sick, actually,” you honestly say, earning a laugh from everyone.

“I think that's completely normal,” Jaz says with an understanding smile. Then folds her arms playfully. “Now tell me. Who's here to find love?”

Every hand shoots into the air. Including yours.

“I love the enthusiasm,” she says, nodding and softly chuckling. “Alright, let's get to know you all a little better.”

She points at the girl sitting beside you. “Bianca, what sort of man catches your eye?"

Bianca adjusts her sunglasses on the crown of her dark hair. “Tall. Good looking. Great smile,” she answers without hesitancy.

Everyone laughs at how she seems to already have a list of what she’s looking for in mind.

“I know what I like,” Bianca simply explains.

Jaz turns at Mandy. “How about you, Mandy?”

“I need confidence,” she answers, clapping her hands together once. “But not cocky. If he spends longer getting ready than I do... absolutely not.”

Laughter ripples through the group.

One after another, everyone shares little snippets of what they're hoping to find. Chastity looking for someone ambitious and a pursuer. Kat is looking for someone cute and genuine. Jaz eventually turns toward you. “What about you?”

You blink, momentarily caught off guard by all the eyes turning your way. “I don’t have any specific type. Like physically.”

You smile thoughtfully before continuing, “But I’d love a guy who’s funny. Who can make me laugh.”

“So appearance isn't really what draws you in,” Jaz says.

You nod in confirmation. “And I’d love someone with an artistic side,” you add, your smile grows almost unconsciously.

“Like a musician?” Jaz curiously asks.

“Doesn’t have to,” you reply, keeping a smile on your face. “I just like people who appreciate creativity.”

A few girls nod in agreement.

"I like that answer,” Jaz says.

Jaz claps her hands together once. “Well, I certainly hope you're all ready.”

Immediately, the atmosphere shifts and the excited chatter dies down.

“Because...” she gestures toward the opposite side of the pool. “…it's time to meet the boys.”

A collective gasp escapes the group.

“Girls, would you follow me?” Jaz says as she gets up from the sofa.

Everyone instinctively fixes their hair, finishes one last sip of champagne before trailing after her. The edge of the infinity pool has been prepared with neat white markers, each one spaced evenly apart. Every marker has room for one girl.

You find yours on the farthest right. Your heart has suddenly become very aware of itself as you stand on your spot.

Jaz waits until everyone is in position. She folds her hands together before talking, “As you know, one by one, the lucky guys will enter the villa and choose one of you to couple up with.”

Several girls exchange nervous glances and your heel somehow begin bouncing in nerves.

“As each boy arrives,” Jaz continues explaining. “If you'd like to couple up with him, you simply take one step forward.”

You hear Mandy squealing next to you.

“If more than one girl steps forward, the boy will decide.”

Mandy’s squeals turn high-pitched now. “I'm actually sweating,” she mutters when she turns to you.

You laugh nervously at her.

Jaz grins seeing the mixed reactions from the girls. “So, you have the power to influence their decision, okay? So If you like them, you better step forward because they might get snatched up.”

Easier said than done.

“Oh my God!” you lowly mutter to yourself.

Jaz turns toward the beach and a producer somewhere off-camera gives a subtle nod. When she looks back at the girls, she smiles even brighter.

“Islanders...” Her voice carries effortlessly across the terrace. “Let's meet your first boy.”

-

YOU: I honestly don't expect to meet my person the second someone walks into the villa. [lightly chuckles]I think chemistry surprises you. If I walked in here with a list... I'd probably miss someone amazing. [smiles]

-

“Please welcome...” Jaz gestures dramatically toward the shoreline. “Patrick!”

Every head turns. A figure appears at the end of the winding stone path. Tall. Broad shoulders. Light brown curls bounce slightly as he walks, one hand rubbing nervously at the back of his neck. A neatly trimmed beard and mustache frame an easy smile that seems equal parts charming and bashful.

“Oh, he's cute,” someone whispers down the line.

Patrick chuckles awkwardly as he approaches, clearly aware that every pair of eyes is fixed on him. “Hi, ladies,” he greets, almost sheepish.

“Hi!” the girls chorus back.

He stops beside Jaz, planting both hands on his waist before dropping them to the side. “I'm not really sure where to look. All of you are beautiful!”

Laughter ripples through the group.

“It's alright,” Jaz says warmly. “The nerves disappear eventually.”

“Hopefully,” Patrick mutters as he laughs.

Jaz turns back toward the girls. “Now, you all know how this works. If Patrick is someone you'd like to couple up with,” she lets the suspense linger for a heartbeat, “take one step forward.”

You glance at Patrick and he's undeniably handsome. Cute, even. But you don’t have any attraction to him whatsoever. Instead, a completely different thought crosses your mind and you almost let out a chuckle at that. So you stay where you are and you instinctively look to the side to find that no one moves either. The line remains perfectly still.

Patrick blinks and looks down for a second. “Tough luck,” he mutters, his ears immediately begin turning pink.

You almost feel bad for him and Mandy feels it to as she covers her mouth and quietly mutters your thought. “I feel bad for him.”

Jaz notices the embarrassment creeping across his face and steps in with an encouraging smile. “The girls are probably just playing it cool.”

Patrick laughs through his embarrassment. “I really hope so.”

Jaz turns back toward the line and her eyes land on you. “Can I ask why you didn't step forward?”

you glance apologetically toward Patrick and let out an awkward laugh. “It's honestly because he kind of look like my ex,” you hesitantly share.

For exactly one second... silence. Then Patrick bursts out laughing. “Can’t argue with that.”

Jaz laughs right along with him. “Fair.”

“I'm so sorry,” you apologize while softly laughing.

He waves both hands. “I actually think that's hilarious.”

The tension dissolves instantly.

Jaz turns toward Mandy. “How about you, Mandy? Why didn’t you step forward?”

Mandy smiles politely. “I think Patrick's really good-looking. But,” she plants her toes behind her and tilts her head. “I think he’s a little too shy for me.”

Patrick nods immediately. “Also, fair.”

Jaz goes to the farthest left. “And Kat?”

Kat smiles apologetically. “I just don't think facial hair is really my thing.”

Patrick instinctively strokes his beard. “Should've shaved…”

Everyone laughs again as Patrick takes every answer with good humor, laughing along with the girls instead of shrinking into himself.

Jaz smiles approvingly. “Well, no one stepped forward. But,” she turns back toward Patrick. “It is actually your choice.”

She gestures toward the line. “So who would you like to couple up with?”

Patrick's eyes slowly travel across every girl. You notice them pause on Mandy. Then drift toward you. Your stomach tightens not because you expect him to choose you, but because being looked at like this suddenly feels very real.

His gaze lingers for another second before returning to Mandy. A smile appears as he starts speaking, “So the girl I’d like to couple up with is…”

He scratches lightly at his jaw. Then his hand gestures at the girl standing next to you. “...the girl with the beautiful curls.”

Mandy is looking not that delighted to be chosen, but she masks it well with her bright smile.

The other girls cheer immediately and Jaz turns toward Patrick once more. “Go and you’re your partner, Mandy!”

Patrick walks over, offering Mandy an awkward smile as she meets him halfway. The two exchange a brief hug. Then, almost simultaneously, they both step back and high-five each other.

“Team curly hair!” Patrick cheerfully says.

The words greeted by Mandy’s high-pitched giggles.

Still chuckling, he takes his place beside Mandy. Neither looks uncomfortable. Just like two strangers hoping things might grow.

Jaz looks back toward the remaining girls. “Alright, one couple down.”

She makes a dramatic pause. Then looks at the girls as she asks, “Are we ready to meet the next boy?”

The answer is immediate. “Yes!”

This time, your heart beats just a little faster. Maybe the next introduction would spark something. Or maybe not. Either way, the journey had only just begun.

-

A grin spreads across Jaz's face as she gestures toward the beach path once more. “Everyone, please welcome… Mike!”

A second figure emerges from the dazzling sunlight. Immediately, a few appreciative murmurs ripple through the line.

Mike walks with an easy confidence, flashing a warm smile that instantly softens his features. His rich brown skin glows beneath the Fijian sun, and his lean frame is impossible to ignore, especially with a toned torso on show.

He lifts a hand, waving toward the girls. “Wow. A bunch of beautiful girls in front of me!”

“Thank you,” Patrick jokingly says, earning laughter from everyone.

You’re curious as to what the other girls think of Mike and as your gaze drifts sideways, you nearly laugh finding Chastity's mouth is literally hanging open at the sight of the man standing next to Jaz and doesn't even seem aware of it.

Jaz notices too and says, “I think someone likes what she sees.”

The girls erupt into giggles.

Chastity fans herself dramatically. “I've been exposed.”

Mike scratches the back of his neck, smiling bashfully. “I don't know whether to be flattered or nervous.”

“A bit of both,” Jaz teases. Then turns back to the line. “Girls, you know what to do. If Mike catches your eye... step forward.”

A second is hardly passed and Chastity steps out. Confidently. No hesitation whatsoever. The rest of you remain exactly where you are.

Mike glances across the line before smiling almost immediately.

Jaz turns toward Mike. “Mike, you can choose any girl you want. Whether they’re single or already coupled up,” she pauses for a second. “So who are you going for?”

He points toward Chastity. “I'd like to couple up with her.”

Chastity claps once in excitement. “I knew it!”

She practically skips over to him and Mike opens his arms for a hug. She embraces him tightly before pulling back with the brightest grin. Standing beside each other, they already look surprisingly comfortable.

Jaz smiles. “Our second couple!”

Applause breaks out around the villa. Then, without wasting a moment—

"Let's meet another boy.”

The excitement builds all over again.

“Please welcome...Cam.”

Another man appears and this one looks younger. Dark hair falls effortlessly across his forehead. A tattoo winds around one toned arm. But it's his eyes that immediately draw attention. Clear blue. Almost piercing. Very seductive.

You can't help but admit that Cam is undeniably attractive. But you still don't feel that instinctive pull. Nothing tells you to step forward.

Jaz smiles knowingly. “Ladies, if you're interested, please take a step forward.”

Almost immediately, Kat and Bianca step forward. A ripple of surprised laughter follows as Mandy stepping forward as well.

Jaz lets out an amused laugh. “I don't think Patrick's taking this well.”

“Can’t argue with a guy with blue steele eyes,” Patrick easily replies.

Cam's attention returns to the three girls standing before him. He takes a thoughtful moment. Then smiles.

“So, Cam, who it’s going to be?” Jaz asks.

“I'd like to couple up with...” his blue eyes hovering around the girls on the left of you. Then settles on someone. “...Kat."

Kat's face lights up. She walks over with an easy confidence. The two exchange a warm hug before taking their place together.

Bianca steps quietly back into line while Mandy rejoins Patrick, who immediately whispers something that makes her roll her eyes and laugh.

Jaz surveys the group and gestures toward the remaining girls. “Alright, we're getting there.”

Then her eyes settle on you and Bianca. “We now have just two single girls left.”

You exchange a quick smile with Bianca. “No pressure.”

“None whatsoever.”

Jaz chuckles. “Let's see if our next Islander changes that.”

She raises her voice as she introduces the fourth guy. “Please meet... Joey!”

Heavy footsteps echo against the wooden planks as Joey rounds the corner with an easy grin. He's noticeably taller than the previous boys, broad-shouldered with freshly cropped hair.

“G'day,” he greets with an unmistakable Australian accent.

The girls greet him enthusiastically.

He flashes another grin. “How we doing?”

You find yourself smiling because he's charming. He seems friendly and approachable. But again... Nothing. No curiosity. No feeling urging you to move.

Jaz gives the familiar instruction. “If Joey's your type, take a step forward.”

Silence. Nobody moves.

Joey lets out a playful whistle. “Tough crowd.”

The girls laugh apologetically.

“You’re not the only one, bro,” Patrick playfully comments.”

Joey shrugs with good humor. “Can't blame a bloke for trying.”

Jaz smiles sympathetically/ “Well, Joey. You still have all the power,” she gestures toward the line of girls. “Who would you like to couple up with?”

Joey studies everyone carefully. His gaze eventually lands on Bianca. “I'll go with the lady with gorgeous blue eyes.”

“Me?” Bianca points at herself.

He nods with an easy smile. “I like your smile.”

Bianca’s smile widens. “Thank you.”

Joey walks over to her and the two exchange a hug before standing beside one another.

Jaz claps her hands together once more. “And just like that, our fourth couple.”

Then, she turns toward you, noticing that you’re still standing alone. The only girl remaining on her marker.

Jaz smiles kindly as she looks at you. “So, one boy left. Do you think he could be the one?”

The cameras suddenly feel impossibly close. You glance toward the now-empty beach path where the final Islander will appear. Then back to Jaz.

A hopeful smile tugs at your lips. “Let's hope so.”

-

YOU: I don’t know why I’m holding out [laughs] I want to look at someone and feel...curious. Like I need to know more about them. [thoughtfully smiles] I’m going to find my man! [confidently smiles]

-

Four couples.

One girl still standing alone.

Jaz lets the anticipation stretch just long enough for your heartbeat to become painfully obvious. She smiles toward the beach and brightly announces, “And now, our final Original Boy.”

The girls collectively hold their breath.

“Ladies, please welcome... Walter!”

Every eye turns toward the winding path leading up from the shoreline.

A tall figure appears against the backdrop of turquoise water. Unlike the boys before him, Walter doesn't look particularly nervous. He walks with an easy confidence, shoulders relaxed, his smile bright enough to rival the sun. There's no arrogance to it—just someone completely comfortable in his own skin.

Your eyes lift to meet his and for a split second... he looks directly at you. It isn't a lingering stare. Barely more than a heartbeat. Yet something inside your chest gives the smallest tug.

Oh.

The feeling surprises you and your stomach performs an unfamiliar little flip. You instinctively look away, suddenly very aware of yourself. You let out a silent breath before glancing sideways, finding Mandy is absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair around her finger. Her lips are pressed into an almost nervous smile. It’s not hard to read into her gesture that she clearly interested. Once more.

When you look back... Walter has reached Jaz. Up close, he's undeniably handsome. Broad shoulders. Warm tan. A confident grin that never feels forced. Your gaze accidentally drops for half a second to his impressively sculpted torso. Mentally counting eight pack of abs.

“Hello, beautiful ladies,” Walter says easily.

Jaz smiles knowingly. “Well, you know how this works by now,” she looks toward the girls before finishing her sentence. “If Walter is someone you'd like to couple up with, take one step forward.”

Your body moves before your brain can overthink it, taking one step forward. The decision feels strangely natural. You don't even realize you've moved until both feet are planted on the white line.

Jaz's face lights up. “Well, look who's finally stepped forward!”

The villa chuckles.

Jaz holds your gaze as she asks, “What made you finally taking a step forward?”

You glance at Walter before answering honestly. “I don't know,” you let out a soft laugh, somehow feeling flustered. “I just like his confidence. And I get good vibe from him.”

Walter smiles almost immediately. “Thank you,” he says with a warm smile. “I appreciate that.”

Then, you look to the side to find that the two girl to your left, Mandy and Bianca, are also taking a step forward

Walter's eyebrows rise ever so slightly.

Even Jaz is laughing now. “I think Patrick's going to need a minute.”

“He has two more abs than me so…” Patrick says, feigning defeat.

Mandy only laughs as she looks at Patrick with apologetic eyes.

Still smiling, Jaz turns back toward Walter. “Walter, the decision is entirely yours. You can choose whichever girl you'd like to couple up with.”

A silence follows afterward. Walter studies the three women standing before him. First Bianca. Then Mandy. Finally, his gaze settles on you and you daringly hold his eyes while keeping a smile on your face.

For some reason, you don't feel nervous anymore. You simply have a quiet feeling that he’s going to choose you.

Walter nods almost imperceptibly and then says, “The girl I'd like to couple up with...”

Your heart skips a beat when his hand pointed at you and a chorus of excited cheers breaks out around the villa. Your smile grows before you can stop it. Relief and excitement mixed with a tiny spark of happiness.

Walter walks toward you with that same easy confidence. When he reaches you, you instinctively open your arms and the two of you hug for a brief moment.

He steps back with a grin. “I'm Walter,” he introduces, intense gaze, firm voice.

You introduce yourself back right away. “It's nice to finally meet you.”

He takes his place beside you, standing shoulder to shoulder. And for the first time today, you don't feel like you're waiting anymore.

Jaz steps back to admire the line of Islanders. “So, we have our original couples.”

She gestures toward each pair in turn and introduces each one for the viewers.

“Patrick and Mandy.”

“Mike and Chastity.”

“Cam and Kat.”

“Joey and Bianca.”

“And finally...”

She smiles toward you and Walter.

Everyone applauds in reaction, looking happy and looking more settled with their choices now, including you.

“Congratulations, Islanders,” Jaz says, folding her hands together. “Your Love Island journey officially starts now as you'll spend your days getting to know one another, playing challenges, living together…”

A playful smile tugs at her lips as she continues, “And sharing a bed together.”

The villa erupts into teasing cheers.

You bite your lip to stop yourself from giggling as the excitement bubbling inside you feels almost impossible to contain.

This is actually happening. You're on Love Island, standing beside your first partner. And maybe, the beginning of something real and genuine.

Jaz watches everyone's reactions with a knowing smile. Then, she tilts her head. “However...”

The chatter dies instantly as everyone gets the same ominous feeling from that single word.

“This is Love Island, “Jaz’s voice takes on a teasing edge.

“You never know who might walk through those doors,” she gestures toward the villa entrance. Then she points toward the beach behind everyone. “…or arrive from the shore.”

Several Islanders exchange puzzled looks.

“I'd like you all to welcome… Monique,” Jaz warmly announces.

Every head turns toward the beach once again and soon enough, another silhouette appears against the glittering ocean.

You stare toward the approaching figure, surprise written all over your face. Another girl? Already? Your coupling is barely two minutes old and somehow, everything suddenly feels uncertain again.

-

The figure walking up from the beach is impossible to ignore.

Monique moves with effortless confidence, her leopard print bikini are sure catching the eyes, especially the males’. Long, dark hair tumbles over one shoulder as she takes a stand beside Jaz.

“Hello, Islanders,” her voice is light and airy.

You notice the way the boys collectively straighten almost imperceptibly. Beside you, Walter doesn't say anything. You feel him glance briefly in her direction before returning his attention to the front.

Jaz smiles brightly at her. “Welcome to Love Island, Monique.”

“It's good to be here,” she sweetly says, waving her hands at everyone.

“Monique, you’re a little late to the party,” Jaz playfully says. “As all the boys have been coupled up.”

She lightly chuckles. “I can see that.”

“Now, Islanders,” Jaz looking at all the couples now. “You all know this wouldn't be Love Island without a little twist.”

Several people laugh nervously.

Monique folds her arms loosely, looking remarkably calm considering she'd just walked into a villa full of strangers.

“As our very first bombshell,” Jaz continues, “Monique has a very important decision to make.”

Jaz nods toward Monique. “In the next 24 hours, you will get to choose one of these boys to couple up with.”

She looks toward the original couples. “Which means… that will leave one of the girls single and vulnerable.”

You instinctively glance toward Walter and your eyes meet for a fraction. Neither of you says anything. After all, you've known each other for barely three minutes. There isn't anything to reassure each other with.

In reaction to that announcement, Jaz lightly teases, “Girls, you look a bit worried.”

she suddenly turns toward you, “Girl, tell me what’s going through your head?”

Honestly, a little sick. You say inside your head. But you quickly come up with another answer. “I think she’s stunning and just… perfect.”

“Oh, thank you,” Monique warmly says.

“And I hope she finds a guy soon,” you continue. Then a second later, you gesture toward Walter beside you and jokingly add, “Just not mine.”

Walter bursts into laughter next to you and you exchange a quick, easy look at each other.

Jaz turns toward Mike next. “Mike, what do you think of Monique?”

“She seems very cool, very fun,” Mike calmly answers. “We barely started so we’ll see.”

Jaz looks back at Monique and asks, “And Monique, what are you looking for in a guy?”

Monique doesn’t hesitate. “I like a guy who’s unapologetically himself. Passionate. And a little bit weird.”

Everyone chuckles at that.

“That’s okay. Weird is good,” Jaz assures with an assuring smile.

She looks back toward the line to continue with the announcement. “I’m going to leave you guys to start your life-changing summer together. There’s going to be romantic dates, villa parties, Islanders coming and going. All as you search for love.”

Jaz smiles sympathetically as she continues, “Don’t forget that the viewers are always watching. In real time.”

That makes you aware of all the cameras planted around the villa and probably filmed every tiny, little reaction you make.

“And they will be voting for their favorite couple. And that winning couple could win $100,000 prize.”

Everyone cheers at the mention of money. Mandy clapping excitedly. The boys are practically howling.   

Jaz claps her hands together. “Enjoy your first day in paradise and good luck!”

With one final smile, Jaz heads toward the villa exit. The moment she's gone, the tension she'd left behind lingers in the warm air.

No one quite knows what to say first. Then Monique breaks the silence by hesitantly asking, “Can I come to you guys?”

You smile at her as you walk up to her. “Of course!”

And everyone immediately scatters, greeting each other for a proper introduction.

-

YOU: $100,000 is a lot of money. I'd be lying if I said I didn't want it. It could change someone's life. It could certainly change mine. But I'd rather leave this villa with someone I genuinely connected with than win with someone I was forcing it with. [thoughtfully smiles]

-

Across the pool, the boys gather around the outdoor gym, huddling up like they’re talking strategy for a game of rugby.

Meanwhile the girls are gathered on the daybed, hugging the throw pillows while talking about… well, the boys.

You find yourself perched comfortably beside Mandy and Bianca, your legs tucked beneath you.

Chastity discreetly points toward Patrick, who's animatedly talking using his entire body. “I feel like he's going to keep everyone entertained.”

“He definitely has golden retriever energy,” Kat agrees.

Mandy smiles fondly despite herself so you nudge her lightly with your shoulder. “So, how are you feeling about Patrick?”

A small laugh escapes her. “To be honest, I don’t feel any initial attraction toward him. He's not really my type.”

You nod and so do the other girls.

“But I actually think we could get on,” Mandy says with a nonchalant shrug. “I don't know if it's romantic yet. But I feel like we could definitely vibe.”

You nod again. “That's a good place to start.”

“I think you and Patrick share the same fun vibe,” Bianca comments.

“I think so too,” Monique chimes in.

Mandy somehow dismisses it easily. Then looks over at Bianca. “What about you? How’s Joey?”

Bianca glances across the pool, looking at Joey who is currently attempting an Australian impression of Patrick, earning a chorus of groans from the boys.

“He’s not my type. But he’s nice,” Bianca calmly shares. “And really easy to talk to.”

The conversation naturally bounces from one boy to another. Kat shares that she’s happy with her partner, Cam. Chastity also shares that Mike seems cool and confident that they can build a connection.

Then, all of a sudden, Mandy leans in and lowers her voice as she says, “I think Cam and Walter are so hot.”

It surprises how comfortable she is sharing that. But you get it that that’s just Mandy, bold and unapologetic. And it’s only been like an hour so you’re aware that nothing is settled yet. Everyone is free to make connection with anyone as they please. Including you.

-

YOU: Yes. Yes, I only stepped forward for Walter. But all the guys, honestly, are so hot [laughs] and like, we don’t know them yet so it’s hard to figure out who you actually click with. But I’ll keep an open mind [nods] [smiles]

-

As the sun begins its slow descent beyond the horizon, the villa transforms.

The harsh afternoon light melts into soft shades of amber and pink, casting a warm glow over the ocean. Fairy lights flicker to life around the terrace, wrapped delicately around palm trees and draped across the outdoor seating area. Somewhere in the villa, everyone starts getting ready for the night.

The girls' dressing room quickly becomes a whirlwind of laughter. Hair tools are plugged in.

Makeup bags are scattered across every available surface. Half-open suitcases spill dresses, heels and shoes across the floor.

You smile from your seat in front of the vanity mirror, carefully blending the last bit of blush onto your cheeks while listening to Kat sharing a funny story from one of her night outs.

“What do you think?" Chastity asks, holding two different dresses in each hand.

You study both dresses for a moment. “I actually think... the white.”

Across the room, Mandy is trying to fasten the clasp on a delicate gold necklace. You stand and gently sweep her hair over one shoulder, helping her with it.

Done with your hair and makeup, you glance at yourself in the mirror one last time. You turn to the side to make sure you have no part on your dress that is unflattering.

All of a sudden, Chastity links her arm with yours. “Come on. The boys are probably waiting,” she says while looking at her reflection in the mirror.

You and Chastity are the last two girls leaving the dressing room and when you finally step out into the night, everyone has already gathered by the side of the pool.

Walter smiles when he looks at you, an arm stretches out to welcome you. You don’t hesitate to take your spot next to him and he doesn’t hesitate to put his arm around you.

“You look nice,” he mutters as he pulls you closer to his side. So close that you catch a whiff of his cologne.

Since he’s taller, you have to tilt your head up to look at him. “You too.”

“Like the hair,” he compliments again, a hand reaches for the strand of your hair caught on the strap of your dress.

Somehow, you chuckle at that and lean in close to whisper it to him. “And that cologne smells amazing!”

“Cologne?” he asks, tilting his head just the slightest. “It’s my pheromones.”

You laugh at that. Your hand absentmindedly flies to his arm and feel the evident veins there. “Just know that it’s working.”

Somehow Patrick and Cam are holding a bottle of Champagne each. Patrick struggles to open it while Cam has no problem whatsoever to do it. But he manages to twist the cork. And POP!

The cork flies into the evening sky and everyone cheers. Champagne flows into waiting glasses. Patrick raises his flute first. “I don't know about everyone else,” he grins around the circle. “But I'd like to propose a toast.”

Mike nods. “Okay. Let's hear it, Pat!”

Patrick lifts his glass higher. “To surviving the first day.”

A murmur of agreement circles the group.

Glasses rise and then— “Cheers!”

The first official toast of the season.

You take a sip and the champagne feels exceptionally refreshing and rewarding. Maybe because you weren’t the one popping the bottle open.

The music starts playing in the villa. Upbeat and cheerful. Soon enough, everyone is moving. Some dance together. Others in little groups. You find yourself dancing alongside the girls, your laughter blending with the music and the crashing waves coming from the shore.

Around you, the villa is alive with music, laughter. New friendships. New couples. You feel good, you feel happy and comfortable. But beneath it all, you feel like tonight is the moment of calm before the storm.

-

The party ends sooner than intended as the weather takes a turn. Everyone takes shelter from the pouring rain. Some people go into the main villa while the rest are scattered around the seating area.

You’re in the open kitchen, refilling your glass with sparkling water instead of champagne. You bring it with you before deciding to joining Walter in one of the outdoor sofas overlooking the pool. On the other end are Chastity and Mike, having a fun chat with their legs tangled around each other.

Walter smiles as you take a seat next to him. “Tired already?” he asks, putting an arm along the headrest behind you.

You return the smile. “Just taking a breather.”

For a moment, neither of you says anything. You're simply watching the rain and how every rain drop makes ripples on the surface of the pool water. It’s somehow just mesmerizing to look at.

Walter looks comfortable as he slouches on the sofa, putting his knee over one leg. You’ve been meaning on talking to him and this is just the right opportunity to do it.

You take a sip of your sparkling water before turning slightly toward him. “You know, you’re the only one I stepped forward for.”

Walter's eyebrows lift as he looks at you. “I know.”

You tilt your head with a teasing smile. “How do you feel about that?”

He doesn't even try to hide his grin. His shoulders rise in a small shrug. “I’m flattered that you chose me, of course,” he says with his easy confidence of him.

“Yeah?” you teasingly ask while swirling swirl the ice around in your glass.

He nods and faintly grins.

“But when you picked me, were you actually interested or…?” you curiously ask, eyes slowly narrowing at him.

Walter stares at you for half a second. “Well, you kind of looked small and sad so I…” he words trail off as he looks at the way you pout rather dramatically, feigning annoyance and then bursts into laughter.

He rubs a hand over the beard along his jaw, still laughing to himself as he gives you an honest answer, “I chose you because I got this feeling that I just wanted to know more about you.”

You pout is slowly replaced by a smile. “That’s kind of how I felt when I looked at you.”

“You were?” he asks in disbelief.

You nod again. “You were the only person today that made me think the same.”

“That’s nice to know,” he says while smiling in satisfaction.

A moment passes in comfortable silence and you have another sip of your water before breaking the silence.

“I haven’t been with a man for so long,” you honestly share while shyly shielding half of your face with your glass. “My flirting game is kind of rusty.”

He brightens up at that. “No. But like me too.”

Not even for a second you believe a handsome like him haven’t been with anyone. “Really?” you ask with eyes widen in disbelief. “You haven’t either?”

Walter drops his head to the back and sighs. Then turns his head toward you. “Honestly? I haven’t even had sexual contact.”

Your eyes widen more they’re about to pop out of its sockets. “I was embarrassed to share it earlier. But yeah, me neither.”

He laughs and with how close he’s sitting, you can feel it vibrating through you. “It’s been so long,” he convinces you more.

“I was about to say I haven’t felt the touch of a man…” you stop yourself as you break into laughter as they spill free now.

“People look at me and they be like ‘Shut up!’ and I’m like, ‘I’m serious’. I did it to myself.”

“Yeah, exactly,” you nod. “You just want someone you can talk to.”

Walter nods. “Yeah, have an actual connection.”

“Exactly.”

“Chemistry,” he adds. “And passion.”

“Yeah,” you nod along to his words, feeling great that you and him finally connecting in a way. That you’re both looking for similar things in a partner. And that you’re making a step to build something real with him.

Walter’s hand moves to your shoulder, his gaze sweeps over your face before settle on your eyes. “You must be excited to share the bed with me tonight,” his voice low and laced with teasing.

You crack a soft, shy laugh. “Not as excited as you I reckon,” you tease back.

“How do you feel about cuddling?” he leans in close that his forehead almost touches yours.

“I’d like that,” you casually say, not wanting to sound too eager.

“Lucky you,” he says, fingers playing with the end of your hair behind you. “Because I'm a great cuddler.”

You let out an amused laugh. “Oh, are you?”

“I've been told.”

“By who?”

“I can't reveal my sources.”

You narrow your eyes dramatically. “Sounds suspicious.”

“I stand by my statement,” Walter concludes as he looks at the

Despite it, you find yourself smiling without realizing it. Because for the first time today, you feel like you've had a real conversation and that you’re one good decision away from meeting the right person.

-

YOU: We've known each other for less than a day. I don't think either of us should pretend we've already found our forever person. [softly laughs] But I like the fact that we’re looking for the same thing here.  And who knows? [lightly shrugs] Maybe we'll end up finding that connection in each other. [smiles]

-

You and Walter are still tucked away on the sofa as the rain continuously pouring.

“...so that's why I can never win at board games,” Walter finishes with a laugh.

You look at him in disbelief. “You've never won?”

“Not once.”

“You're telling me you've gone your whole life without winning Monopoly?”

“I usually end up bankrupt first.”

You stare at him for a few seconds before bursting into laughter. “Now I know why you’re single.”

This time, he stares at you. “And why is that?”

“Bad financial strategy,” you answer with a sly grin.

Instead of denying it, Walter nods in defeat. “Yeah, I guess that’s why.”

It’s getting late, but the rain is far from stopping. You spot Patrick sprinting from the daybed toward the villa, nearly slipping on the wet stone.

Walter slightly tightens his arm around you as he looks at you with half-shut eyes. “Should we head inside?”

You nod, already feeling your dress becoming heavier. “I think that's probably a good idea.”

He stands first. Then pauses. He looks between you and the increasingly soaked stone path leading to the villa. “I've got an idea.”

“What idea?” you look at him in both suspicion and curiosity.

“I give you a piggyback,” he offers with almost lazy grin.

You lightly chuckle at that. “That won’t stop us from getting wet though.”

His gaze deepens as he teasingly says, “I don’t mind getting wet.”

You look away first and stare at the wet path toward the main villa. “Well, I guess… why not?”

“Thought so,” he says, still grinning.

Without another word, he turns around and crouches just enough for you to climb onto his back. You hesitate for approximately half a second before slipping your arms around his broad shoulders. His back feels warm against your chest as you lean in and rest your head in the crook of his neck.

“You ready?” he says, supporting your weight by hooking his arms under your knees.

“I think so,” you vaguely answer.

Walter adjusts his footing. He clears his throat dramatically before counting down. “Three, two…”

You squeal and giggle into his neck where the smell of his cologne is concentrated.

“One!” Walter finishes counting.

He adjusts you once on his back. Then he dashes through the pouring rain while carrying you on his back. You shudder just slightly for every raindrop that hits your body. You instinctively tighten your arms around his shoulders as another burst of laughter escapes both of you.

By the time you reach the villa doors, both of you are laughing too hard to care you’re your back is completely soaked.

Walter gently lowers you back onto your feet. “There you go.”

You brush a damp strand of hair away from your face. “Thank you for the ride.”

“My pleasure,” he sweetly says. Then gestures toward the bedroom door. “I'm going to hangout in the bedroom for a bit.”

You nod as you smooth the hem of your dress. “Okay.”

“See you in a bit?”

“See you.”

You watch as he pushes through the bedroom door while you begin climbing the stairs to the second floor.

The girls' dressing room is much quieter than it was earlier. You step inside to find Kat perched on one stool, carefully removing her earrings, while Monique sits on the stool next to her, tying her hair into a loose ponytail.

Kat softly smiles when she looks at you. “How was the rain?”

You don’t hesitate. “Wet.”

Monique laughs. “I gathered.”

You smile before settling onto one of the vanity stools and the first thing you do is kick off your heels. The relief is immediate. You flex one foot before gently rubbing the back of your heel.

As you massage your sore heel, Monique casually asks Kat, “How about you and Cam?”

“I don't know,” Kat says, sighing as she brushes the end of her hair. “I actually feel kind of nervous.”

“About Cam?”

Monique smiles knowingly. “I actually think that's a good sign. It means you care. If you were completely indifferent, you wouldn't be nervous.”

Kat turns to you for opinions. “What do you think?”

You’re caught off guard for a second. “I actually agree,” you say. “I think nerves usually mean there's something worth being excited about. You put a leg over your knee and massage your ankle. Then continue, “It doesn't guarantee anything, but I don't think they're a bad thing.”

Kat smiles to herself. “Yeah, you’re right.”

After a comfortable pause, Kat turns the conversation back toward Monique. “So, Monique, what do you think of the boys?”

Monique doesn't even pretend to hesitate. “So far? I'm definitely most attracted to Mike.”

Your eyebrows lift slightly because you thought she’d be interested in Cam but hesitates to say it to Kat.

Kat nods repeatedly. “Oh, yeah. Mike is sexy.”

You get curious as well and ask, “Who else you’re interested in?”

Monique glances toward you. Then sheepishly smiles. “I also think Walter's really attractive.”

Your hands pause briefly against your heel. Only for a second. Then continue massaging it. You keep your expression relaxed.

“I think he has a really nice personality,” Monique explains.

You find yourself nodding. “He is. He is fun to talk to. He's been really easy to talk to.”

Monique smiles. “Exactly.”

-

YOU: Monique mentioned she's interested in Walter [bites index finger] so I’m a tiny bit nervous. We've literally been coupled up for one day so I don't exactly have any claim over him. But… [grimaces] I'd rather not get dumped from my relationship after approximately twenty-four hours. [laughs]

-

By the time you make your way into the bedroom, the villa has finally begun to settle.

Not into silence. That would probably never happen with this group. Instead, the room hums with the comfortable chaos of eleven strangers preparing to sleep in the same space for the first time. Even Patrick is still in his party outfit, still talking. Nobody knows how he has this much energy.

You smile to yourself as you climb into your bed, fluffing the pillow before slipping beneath the crisp white duvet.

Walter isn't here yet and across the room, Mike and Chastity have already climbed into bed. Both are wearing their glasses and clutching the duvet close to their chest.

Kat who occupies the bed next to yours, breaking into laughter with her hand pointed at them. “You guys look like grandparents who've stayed up past their bedtime.”

The room immediately bursts into laughter.

Chastity chuckles without moving an inch. “It is past my bedtime,” she says, sounding genuinely drowsy.

Another wave of laughter rolls through the bedroom.

Just then, Walter appears in the doorway. His hair is still slightly damp and he brushes is to the back with his hand. On his other hand is a water tumbler.

He smiles when he sees you. “You claimed your side already?”

“First come, first served,” you answer with a cheeky grin.

Walter places his water tumbler down on the bedside table and gets onto the bed. “I think I see a roach.”

You know right away he’s lying and without thinking, you smack his chest with the back of your hand. “Not funny!”

He immediately breaks into laughter, falling to the back and accidentally hits the back of his head against the headboard of the bed. “Ouch!”

You hit him again, but gentler now. “See? This is why you shouldn’t joke about roach.”

Walter still laughs while rubbing the back of his head. The mattress dips slightly beneath his weight as he fully settled on his side of bed.

Around the room, conversations continue in little pockets. No one seems ready to fall asleep just yet. But then, all of a sudden, the room falls into darkness. Only faint moonlight filters through the large windows overlooking the pool.

The chatter softens. Someone whispers across the room. Another quiet laugh answers. Sheets rustle. Mattresses creak.

The villa is finally beginning to wind down. You roll onto your side, facing Walter and in the darkness, you can't make out much more than the outline of his face against the pillow.

Even so, he notices you. “You ready for cuddles now?” His voice is barely above a whisper.

You smile to yourself and instead of answering, you scoot closer until you’re snuggled up ot his side. Then, almost absentmindedly, you drape one leg over his.

Walter lets out a quiet, amused chuckle. “This is your version of cuddling?”

“I never said I was good at it.”

“I don't think you needed to,” he murmurs. Then carefully, he rests one hand over the outside of your thigh.

The room grows quieter still. You can smell the faint traces of his cologne lingering against his skin. Now mixed with the scent of freshly washed sheets.

You wrinkle your nose dramatically. “Stop spreading your pheromones. I'm trying to sleep here.”

Walter lets out another soft laugh. His thumb traces one slow, absentminded circle against the side of your thigh through the blanket. “I'll try to keep them under control.”

“Please do.”

Another beat of comfortable silence settles between you. The conversations around the room fade one after another until only the distant sound of waves can be heard through the slightly open balcony doors.

Your eyelids grow heavier as the excitement of the day finally catching up with you. Half-asleep, you mumble into the darkness, “Goodnight.”

Warm breath ghosting the side of your face as he murmurs back, “Goodnight.”

-

The first thing you hear is music. A ridiculously cheerful music. You hear it but your eyes remain stubbornly shut for another second. Then the bedroom lights blaze to life.

A chorus of groans immediately fills the room.

Patrick throws an arm dramatically over his face as he mumbles, “Five more minutes.”

Someone in production calls through the speakers. “Good morning, Islanders!”

Another collective groan answers them.

You blink a few times, your vision slowly adjusting to the brightness and the excitement of yesterday rushes back all at once. You’re actually here. In Fiji. For Love Island.

You push yourself upright, the duvet pooling around your waist as you settle against the padded headboard as the room is also still waking up around you.

Beside you, Walter lets out a long yawn. Then stretches both arms reaching high above his head. The movement sends every muscle along his arms flexing naturally as he works the stiffness from sleep.

When he turns his head toward you, he sleepily smiles. “Morning…” he mumbles with his hair is adorably messy. One side sticking up completely against its own will.

You smile before you can stop yourself. “Morning.”

He notices your expression. “What?”

“You've got a little situation going on,” you say, gesturing vaguely toward his head.

He instinctively reaches up, feeling the offending tuft of hair. “You still find me very handsome, right?”

You try not to laugh. “It's giving baby cockatoo.”

Walter stares at you. “That's incredibly specific. And somehow offensive.”

You grin as you gently pat the top of his head. “I meant it affectionately.”

He shifts until he's sitting beside you against the headboard as well, mirroring your position.

For a little while, neither of you says anything. The comfortable sort of silence that belongs to people who aren't quite awake yet.

Walter eventually turns his head toward you. A sleepy smile spreads across his face. “Some good cuddles we had last night,” he says.

The sentence lands so casually that it takes your brain a second to catch up. “I’m glad,” you casually say. “But when we woke up, I found us facing away from each other.”

He turns to look behind him and sure enough, both pillows are slightly indented in opposite directions, evidence that sometime during the night the two of you had unconsciously rolled away from one another.

Walter bursts into laughter. “I thought we were doing quite well.”

You laugh, shaking your head. “We started all cuddly and somehow ended up conducting an international border dispute down the middle of the mattress.”

You’re both still sleepy and yet the laughter between you comes easily. And it feels like a pretty nice way to start the morning.

-

The sky overhead is unusually cloudy. Thick grey clouds drift lazily across the Fijian morning, hiding most of the sun. And because Mandy insisted on making you do a session of yoga with her, you end up being late for breakfast.

You settle yourself onto the nearest sofa, balancing a plate in one hand and a glass of orange juice in the other before placing it on the low coffee table. You tuck one leg under you, occasionally shoving a forkful of scrambled eggs or a bite of bacon while watching everyone scatter into little conversations around the villa.

Patrick and Joey are somehow doing another round of workout after breakfast. Kat is lying on a sun lounger with Cam, possibly talking about his tattoo from the way her fingers trailing over it. Across you, Walter and Mike are chatting on the daybed.

You’re about to have a bite of toast when you notice Monique walks up to you.

“Hey,” she greets with an easy smile.

“Hey,” you greet back, then pat the empty space beside you. “What's up?”

She ends up sitting on the armrest of the sofa. “I actually wanted to ask you something.”

You put down your toast and grab your orange juice. “Go for it.”

“I was wondering if it'd be alright if I had a chat with Walter,” she sheepishly says.

The question doesn't surprise you, especially after last night. And you actually appreciate how she asks you first. So you answer almost immediately. “Of course.”

She smiles, though she still looks like she's checking to make sure you're genuinely okay with it. “You sure?”

“Yeah,” you answer. “I think you deserve exactly the same chance to explore your connection as everyone else.”

Monique lets out a small breath. “I'm glad you said that. I'd feel awful if I stepped on anyone's toes.”

You shake your head. “I don't think you're doing that. This is literally why you're here.”

Her smile widens as she looks at you in half relief, half admiration. “I like you already.”

You lightly chuckle at that. “I like you too.”

She gets up and takes a step back. “I’ll let you get back to your breakfast.”

Instead of answering, you raise your glass of orange juice and finally take a sip. From the rim of your glass, you watch as she heads straight for the daybed and Walter looks up when she comes near.

You can’t quite hear what they’re saying, but you can safely assume that Monique is asking him of she can talk to him. And soon enough, the two of them walk side by side toward the beach path, away from the rest of the Islanders. Toward a quiet spot by the shoreline where the waves swallow up every conversation.

-

YOU: I don't think anyone here is putting all of their eggs into one basket yet.And I don't think they should [chuckles]Monique came in here as a bombshell. Her whole job is to explore.And I genuinely think she deserves the freedom to do that [smiles]

-

By early afternoon, it starts to drizzle and the villa feels quieter than it did the day before.

Some Islanders still lounging in the seating are but most of the girls are gathered in the bedroom. On Monique’s bed to be specific.

You’re sitting next to Monique, back resting against the headboard while hugging a throw pillow. Kat is already curled up with her head on your lap. Chastity lies across the foot of it. Bianca sits on the edge of the bed, twirling the end of her hair around her fingers.

“So, how do you feel?” Kat asks, almost absentmindedly.

The girls know to whom the question is aimed for and everyone is looking at her.

Monique sighs dramatically. “I don’t know. I’m actually nervous.”

“You've got all the power,” Chastity innocently asks.

Monique drops her face into her hands. “I think that's why,” she mumbles, peeking through her fingers. “I've only got a few hours left to decide.”

Before anyone can respond, the bedroom door swings open. Mandy walks in with Patrick close behind her. Without a second thought, Patrick drops onto the edge of their shared bed and Mandy immediately settles sideways on his lap. His arms naturally circle her waist.

Neither of them seems to think twice about it.

The girls exchange quick little glances. Then Mandy beams at Monique. “So, how are you going to make your decision for tonight?”

Monique laughs sheepishly. “I honestly don't know. But I’ve got a couple of ideas,” she says, the tone insinuating something.

“Ooo...” Chastity wiggles her eyebrows dramatically. A couple.”

The room erupts into teasing laughter laced with curiosity.

Mandy instinctively reaches back, taking one of Patrick's hands and pulling his arm a little tighter around her waist. The movement is subtle but it’s enough to show how possessive she is already over him.

You bite the inside of your cheek to hide your smile.

Mandy points playfully at Monique. “I just hope none of those ideas involve my man,” she cheerfully says while patting Patrick’s arm.

Patrick chuckles beside her and the room laughs with them. But beneath Mandy's teasing tone, you catch the smallest flicker of nerves.

Driven by curiosity or the need to know the answer, Mandy asks, “Who do you have connection with?”

Monique thinks for a moment. Then breaks into a cryptic smile. “There’s probably three guys…”

Since you know that two of them are Walter and Mike, it makes you curious on who’s the other one is. You lightly nudge her knee with yours. “Who’s the third guy?”

Monique opens her mouth. Then stops. But you watch the way her eyes briefly drift toward Patrick. Your own eyebrows lift almost imperceptibly.

Monique breaks into faint laughter. “I'd rather not say.”

Chastity pouts at that. “Now I'm even more curious.”

On the next bed, Mandy’s shifts slightly. Her smile isn’t as brighter as it was seconds ago.

Before anyone can press further, Monique smoothly changes the subject. “What about you two?” She looks between Mandy and Patrick. “How are things going?”

Mandy's entire expression brightens like someone turns the brightness all the way up. She glances up at Patrick and the second their eyes meet, she dissolves into giggles.

“I'm starting to really like him,” she answers while nodding. “The attraction's definitely there.”

You find yourself smiling watching them because they're undeniably sweet together.

Still, something about Patrick feels restless. Like his mind is turning over something.

The feeling lingers until Patrick suddenly pats Mandy's leg. “Fancy a chat?”

She looks at him. “Now?”

“Yeah.”

She immediately nods. “Okay.”

Soon, the two disappear through the bedroom door together and the room falls quiet.

You barely hear the door click shut before Monique lowers her voice. “Can I tell you something?”

The girls immediately lean in.

"This morning, we were in the bathroom together,” Monqiue shares, keeping her voice low. “

And before we got interrupted, he said to 'Let's have a chat later.'”

You wince while Kat's eyes widen, it looks almost comical with her hazel eyes.

Chastity slowly sinks backward onto the bed. “That's surely interesting.”

Nobody says anything for a moment. But the atmosphere has shifted. Just slightly. But it’s enough to tell you that tonight's recoupling may not be nearly as straightforward as everyone hoped.

-

YOU: Remember when I said everyone shouldn’t put their eggs in one basket yet? Well, it looks like someone already did [covers the mouth with one hand] [whisper] spoiler alert: it’s not me [laughs]

-

The rain finally gives up. Almost as though production had made a deal with the weather itself.

Everyone naturally gathers around the outdoor kitchen, making their own choice of concoction. You settle on a glass of Aperol spritz. Then, almost instinctively, everyone forms a loose circle.

Patrick clears his throat dramatically. “I suppose as Head of Villa Toasts...”

“There is no such title,” Joey interrupts as he shakes his head, grinning.

Patrick ignores him and lifts his champagne flute. He looks around the circle once. Then says, “I'd like to make a toast to bread.”

Everyone raises their eyebrows in confusion.

Patrick laughs to himself before finishing his toast. “Because without bread, there would be no toast.”

Everyone bursts into laughter while Joey once again shaking his head, “Spoken like a true lad.”

Walter raises his glass higher. “Cheers!”

“Cheers!”

With that, the glasses clinking together and everyone takes a sip in unison. And for one fleeting moment, everything feels nice and surprisingly normal. Then— DING!

Every head turns toward the source of the sound and Monique instinctively unlocks the phone she’s holding. “I've got a text.”

Everyone cheers and then gets quiet as Monique starts reading the text aloud.

Monique, the time has come for you to choose which boy you want to couple up with. All Islanders must now gather around the fire pit. #decisiontime #stealinhearts

A collective chorus of nervous laughter ripples through the group and with that, one by one, they make their way toward the fire pit.

The atmosphere is completely different now as the curved sofas surrounding the firepit quickly fill. You settle into your seat near one end of the sofa and Walter sits beside you on your right. Mike sits comfortably beside Chastity. Kat leans subtly toward Cam. Bianca quietly folds one leg beneath herself beside Joey.

Across from you, Patrick and Mandy sit together. Mandy's fingers are intertwined tightly with his. She smiles whenever someone looks her way. But you can tell she's trying not to look nervous and at the same time, isn't entirely succeeding.

The boys mostly wear expressions of curiosity. Maybe anticipation. Wondering who'll be chosen. Wondering whose journey might suddenly change.

Standing alone before the fire pit, Monique draws a slow breath. Then the phone she’s holding chimes again. She slowly exhales as she glances down and reads the new text.

Monique, it’s decision time. Please reveal which boy you’ve chosen to couple up with. #singlenomore

She slips the phone into her pocket. Then looks up, meeting every pair of eyes. A nervous smile crosses her face.

“So it’s been hard being the last to come to the villa, and have to make this decision,” she says with a soft laugh. “But I feel like I would just have to kind of follow what I’m feeling. And we all came here for a reason so I just want to follow my gut.”

A few understanding nods greet her. The villa remains silent.

Monique looks down for a second before continuing. “The boy I've chosen is someone who I think is completely himself,” she smiles to herself. “He doesn't seem interested in pretending to be someone he's not. He laughs without worrying what anybody else thinks.”

She pauses to take another breath. “I find that really attractive. And I'd like to see where that connection could go.”

Almost instinctively, you glance sideways toward Walter, wondering whether he's trying to decipher the speech too. Instead, you find him already looking at you.

The two of you lock eyes and for one ridiculous second, neither of you says anything.

Then Walter gives the tiniest shrug as if silently asking, "Have you got any idea?"

You have to bite the inside of your cheek to stop yourself from laughing. You give the smallest shake of your head as if replying to him. No clue.

Monique lets the silence stretch longer this time as if she purposely tries to build the suspense. When she finally looks up, her eyes drifting from side to side. Then, a short exhale of air escapes her mouth.

She licks her lips before speaking, “And the boy that I want to couple up with is…”

-

YOU: I honestly don’t know what’s going to happen [lightly shrugs] I just know that I’m not going to get bored during the recoupling cause there’s definitely going to be some drama [laughs]

-

✨ LOVE ISLAND SEASON 1: EPISODE 3 & 4 ARE AVAILABLE ON PATREON ✨

Please support my writings by kindly reblog, comment or tip me on my ko-fi!

So, I normally wrote on my other account, but I'm thinking of writing here in the Marvel and Squid Game fandom (just wlw), mainly because I miss Hyunju. But if the fandom it's completely dead, I'll pretend I never posted this here lmao