Seospicy.

NARRATOR: Previously on Love Island. Ten hopeful singles arrived in paradise, all looking for one thing... Love. They coupled up to create our first matches. Then, to shake things up, Bombshell Monique arrived with the power to steal any boy she wanted. And while some Islanders grew closer— well, some more than others. Monique had 24 hours to get to know each guy before deciding which one to steal.

Now, we’re back at the villa and Monique is finally ready to use her power and steal the man of her choice. Her decision will break up one of our couples. Which boy will she choose?

-

The fire crackles softly but it doesn’t help much to ease the building tension in the villa.

Monique stands alone in front of the fire pit, hands clasped together as every pair of eyes in the villa remains fixed on her. No one rushes her. In fact, the production staff seem to encourage the silence.

You believe that the cameras are zooming in on everyone’s reaction. Patrick swallows. Mandy's fingers tighten around his hand. Mike sits perfectly still. Cam scratches absentmindedly at his jaw. Joey rubs his palms against his knees. Walter shifts beside you almost imperceptibly.

Including you, you can hear your own heartbeat. Nervous for no absolute reason.

Monique draws another slow breath and then licks her lips. “The boy that I want to couple up with...”

The words hang in the humid evening air as everyone seem to collectively holding their breath and not letting go until Monique finishes that sentence.

-

YOU: Guys! [dramatically groans] The suspense is killing me!

-

“And the boy that I want to couple up with is…”

Monique smiles nervously and then—

“...Patrick.”

For a split second, nothing happens. It is as though the entire villa needs a moment to process what it has just heard. Then, almost in unison, every head turns toward the middle of the curved sofa where Patrick and Mandy are sitting side by side as a couple.

Patrick's eyebrows lift in genuine surprise. Then a smile slowly spreads across his face. He’s certainly surprised but also like… happy about it.

Next to him, Mandy smiles too. But it's a completely different smile. Her plump lips pulled into a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes.

You instinctively press your lips together, stopping yourself from going, ‘Oh... Mandy’.

Patrick glances toward Mandy and their eyes meet. She gives him the tiniest nod that silently says, Go on.

He returns a grateful smile before making his way around the fire pit and then toward Monique. The second he reaches her, the two exchange a hug before standing side by side in front of the fire pit.

The Islanders begin clapping for both of them. Not because they aren't surprised. Quite the opposite. Everyone looks thoroughly blindsided.

Despite yourself, a tiny laugh of disbelief escapes you. But it fades almost immediately as your attention returns to Mandy. She's still smiling and clapping. Yet her eyes shimmer against the firelight. You can see the tears gathering and held back only by sheer determination.

The applause gradually dies away and then a chime comes from the phone resting on Mandy’s side. She looks down, takes a quiet breath and unlocks the screen. Her voice is steady, remarkably so, as she begins reading.

Mandy, you’re single now and your place in the villa is at risk. There will be another recoupling at the end of the week. And the Islander not picked will be dumped from the Island. #suddenlysolo #werkyourflirt

The villa falls quiet again. Nobody really knows what to say. But then again, all of you are well aware of how this show works.

Mandy lowers the phone and looks around at everyone, still smiling through the pain. When she looks at you, you offer him an encouraging smile and a tiny nod. But then she looks down and you notice right away how her lips are trembling as she presses them together — she’s on the verge of crying.

Then comes another chime and this time, it comes from the phone Patrick is holding. He unlocks it and reads it aloud for everyone to hear.

Patrick and Monique, you're officially coupled up! It's time for your first date. Please get ready and leave the villa immediately. #newconnection #datetime

With that, Patrick and Monique wave at everyone. “See you later.”

The Islanders clap once more as the newly formed couple as the two walk away and disappear through the sliding doors to get ready for their date.  As soon as they're gone, the fire pit feels noticeably quieter.

One new couple has formed. One Islander now stands alone. And the first recoupling has changed the balance of the villa far more than anyone expected.

-

The villa stays quiet for a moment after Patrick and Monique disappear inside.

The usual chatter doesn't return straight away. Instead, everyone instinctively looks toward Mandy remains seated for another second, staring into the fire as if she's still catching up to what just happened. Then Bianca is the first to stand.

Without saying a word, she walks over and wraps Mandy in a hug. “Oh, babe...”

Kat joins next. Then Chastity. You step forward last, slipping your arms gently around Mandy's shoulders.

She lets out a quiet laugh through her nose. “I'm okay.”

When everyone lets go, you keep one reassuring hand against the small of her back. A silent reminder that she's not standing alone.

“Come on,” you say softly. “Let's get a drink.”

The group naturally drifts back toward the outdoor kitchen, getting back to their drinks that have been abandoned. The celebratory mood has disappeared. This time, they drink to give themselves something to do while the villa settles after its first real shock.

You lean against the kitchen island with your half-finished Aperol spritz and Walter stands beside you, refilling his glass with wine. After a moment, he looks over at Mandy and curiously asks. “Did you see that coming?”

Mandy lets out a short laugh. "God, no. Not even a little bit.”

She shakes her head, taking a sip of wine before continuing. “The funny thing is, we were chatting about all of this. With the girls. In the bedroom. The whole conversation happened.”

Mandy looks between everyone. “We were joking about who she was going to pick. Patrick was there. She never mentioned his name. She didn’t talk to me about it.”

You nod in confirmation. “Yeah. We were there.”

Beside you, Bianca also nodding and almost innocently, she says, “Maybe he won’t even like her.”

“No, that’s the thing,” Mandy says, swinging her wine glass around as she talks, “I don’t want him back.”

Joey who’s been listening from the back, quietly howling and laughing in reaction.

“Sheesh…” Cam hisses and wince at the other end of kitchen island. “Just like that?”

“Because I could tell that he wanted her to pick him,” Mandy doesn’t hesitate at all. “So I just feel disrespected in a way.”

The word hangs in the air.

Mandy barely sips her drink as she starts ranting again. “It’s like you guys couldn’t just talk to me about it. I kissed him. We were cuddling all night,” she holds up one finger. “You can’t do all that while you want someone else to pick you.”

The glass has long since lost its chill, warming in her hand as her emotions continue bubbling to the surface. Then she shrugs, almost nonchalantly. Like she didn’t just go through the five stages in under five minutes.

“I'm moving on,” she says, punctuating the sentence with another sip of wine.

A comfortable silence follows and from behind you, Mike playfully mutters, “Whoa. The tea is piping hot tonight.”

For a beat, nobody reacts. Then you snort and the villa instantly erupts into laughter. The hilarity of the moment is enough to make everyone breathe again. Because if there was one thing everyone could agree on, it was that this season had officially begun.

-

YOU: Mandy is coming out of the recoupling… blazing [winces] and it’s getting spicy [glances sideways]

-

The conversation around the outdoor kitchen slowly splinters into smaller groups.

Mandy pulls you by the hand, dragging you with her to the daybed. Soon, you settle onto the edge, folding one leg under you.

For a little while, the two of you simply watch the pool lights shimmer across the water while enjoying your wine. Neither of you feels any rush to fill the silence, then Mandy exhales and turns toward you.

“Am I tripping?” she asks you. “I don’t want to look crazy.”

You understand that she was purely upset about her situation and you would have acted the same if you were in her position. You lean in just slightly. “I don't think you're being crazy,” you assure her.

You grab a throw pillow and prop it between you and the edge of the daybed. “I don't think Monique choosing Patrick was the issue. But she should've spoken to you first.”

Mandy doesn’t even hesitate. She points at you with her wine glass. “Exactly!”

“I mean, she came and spoke to me before she even pulled Walter,” you share.

Mandy nods quickly. “That's exactly what I'm saying. It's not that she picked Patrick. But it’s shady on his part.”

You nod thoughtfully and quickly add, “I don't think it's completely Monique's fault.”

“It's both of them,” Mandy says, bringing her wine close to her mouth, but not drinking it. “If Patrick had come to me. And talked to me. I would've been upset. But at least I would've known.”

You nod. “Yeah. You’re right.”

Back in the kitchen, you believed her when she said she’s moving on. But the way she’s still ranting about Patrick and Monique, it looks like she’s barely doing it. Mandy eventually falls quiet. The breeze lifts a few loose strands of her curls.

When she speaks again, her voice is much softer. “They couldn't just think about my feelings for one second?”

The question isn't really directed at you. It's directed at the universe. At the situation. At everything.

You decide that it’s best for you to stay quiet. Because there isn't really a perfect answer.

Mandy stares down into her glass. “I actually liked him, you know? I really thought something was starting to form,” she openly shares then laughs to herself.

You rest put a hand on her knee and pat lightly. “I'm sorry.”

Without warning, she looks at you and says, “Which leads me to ask you something.”

“Yeah? What is it?”

Mandy lifts her glass close to the side of her mouth as she lowly asks, “Would it be alright if I talked to Walter?”

For a second, your brain genuinely stalls because that was not where you expected the conversation to go. Not even remotely.

You stare at her for another beat. Then a smile slowly appears. “Yeah, I’m fine with that.”

“But it’s not like if I talked to him, I wanted to be with him.” she quickly assures you.

“No, I know,” you tell her with a smile.

“I figured it was the respectful thing to do.”

“And I appreciate it,” you say with a smile.

Mandy doesn’t waste time to do her mission. About an hour later after your shared conversation. You notice Mandy walking toward Walter.

Walter is sitting on one of the outdoor sofas near the pool, chatting with Joey.

He looks up when Mandy approaches. He straightens almost immediately, looking like he wasn't expecting her. She gestures toward one of the empty seats beside him and Walter nods.

Mandy sits and Walter turns his body toward her. The conversation begins and from where you're sitting, you can't hear a single word. Only expressions. Body language.

Walter nodding while listening. Mandy talking animatedly with her hands. Walter saying something that makes her throw her head back in laughter. A moment later, he laughs too.

You wait for jealousy to arrive. For that uncomfortable knot in your stomach. For the instinct to look away. Surprisingly, you feel nothing.

If anything, watching Walter with Mandy confirms something you've been quietly wondering since yesterday. You’ve been keeping an open mind and assuring yourself that maybe it was because you and him were only together for two days. You can see it now that you and Walter are barely connecting.

Then again, it's still too early to know for sure. Maybe it grows into something. Maybe it doesn't. Maybe there isn't a romantic connection at all. You simply don’t know yet and perhaps that's okay.

-

YOU: It's pretty obvious Mandy thinks Walter's attractive [softly laughs] I mean... he is.He’s so hot. It's definitely a weird situation. But I don’t know [laughs] I honestly don’t know what’s going to happen [cluelessly smiles]

-

The villa slowly finds its rhythm again. The sting of the recoupling hasn't disappeared. It's simply... shifted. Conversations begin popping up in every corner of the garden. You remain on the daybed with Kat and Chastity, just casually chatting and enjoying the rest of their drink.

At one point, Chastity points toward the entrance of the villa. “They’re back.”

It’s Patrick and Monique strolling back into the villa. Hand in hand. Both smiling. Their date clearly went well.

A chorus of cheers greets them. Patrick heads straight toward the boys gathered around the seating area, immediately getting pulled into a barrage of questions. Meanwhile, Monique scans the garden and then land on where you, Kat and Chasity at. She walks over with a bright smile and the three of you shift to make room for her on the daybed.

“So, how was the date?” Kat asks immediately.

“It was romantic,” she says as she places a hand over her chest. “Food. Candles. Flowers.”

“Sound lovely,” Kat comments.

Monique tucks a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “And we kissed.”

The three of you make a similar low gasp at that. Your eyebrows lift ever so slightly, imagining how would Mandy react to this. You instinctively glance across the garden and yep, Mandy is still talking with Walter. And you’re glad that Mandy is for sure now has completed her grieving process.

Kat and Chastity continue asking Monique more questions about the date.  Monique answers every question with growing enthusiasm. Then, after a few minutes, her smile softens.

“I should probably and have a chat with Mandy first,” she says.

The daybed grows briefly quiet. Chastity's mouth twists into a tiny expression that says, Oh dear.

You notice it immediately, but before anyone says anything, Monique stands. She smooths down her dress before walking toward the pool, toward Mandy.

Across the villa, the cameras are already following Monique. Because everyone knows whatever happens next isn't going to stay private for very long.

-

The villa slowly begins winding down and you honestly... can’t wait to put an end to this eventful day. Simply because your social battery has officially clocked out.

The vanity lights cast a warm glow over the mirrors as you stand in front of the bathroom sink, already dressed comfortably for bed. You’re slowly untangling the ends of your hair before combing it down with a hairbrush. For the first time all day, you’re by yourself and it's quiet and peaceful.

Then, someone walks in and you turn your head toward the doorway to find Walter there.

When he sees you, he smiles almost immediately. “Hey.”

A sleepy smile spreads across your face. “Hey.”

He wanders over to the freestanding bathtub before sitting on its edge. Neither of you says anything for a passing moment. You turn around completely, resting your hips against the sink with your hairbrush still in one hand.

Walter rubs his trimmed beard absentmindedly. He opens his mouth, but then closes it again. His eyes drift over what you're wearing — dark cotton shorts with a simple white tank top.

“You look cute,” he says with a faint grin.

You laugh softly. “Thank you.”

Deep down, you know he’s here to have a talk with you. You'd been half-expecting this conversation ever since Mandy pulled him for that chat. Hence why he’s hesitating a lot.

You continue brushing the end of your hair. Then casually ask, “So, what’s up?”

Walter takes a quiet breath. Then scratches lightly at his forearm. “I just... I wanted to know where your head's at.”

Yep. There it is. You nod slowly. “I've actually been thinking about that too.”

He looks surprised to hear it. “Yeah?”

You fiddle absentmindedly with the handle of your hairbrush. “I don't know. I kind of feel like... you and I are barely connecting,” you share, adding a light shrug at the end of the sentence.

Walter nods almost immediately. “Yeah. But at the same time, I feel like we haven’t really had the chance.”

You nod. “Yes.”

Neither of you looks uncomfortable saying it. If anything, it feels relieving.

Walter nods thoughtfully and then looks directly at you as he starts speaking again. “So, I was thinking... what if we just go with the flow?”

The words hang comfortably between you. It doesn't sound like he's trying to convince you. It sounds more like he's asking whether the two of you can agree on it together.

You slowly nod. “Yeah. I think that's probably the best thing to do.”

Walter’s expression brightens. Almost hopeful. “But if things do start developing,” he quickly adds while gesturing lightly between the two of you. “Then we'll follow that.”

You nod again, agreeing to it.

“If they don't...” Walter trails off and then he shrugs. “…you're completely free to explore other people. I don't want either of us forcing something.”

“I'm cool with that,” you say with a smile. “I don't want us feeling guilty every time we talk to someone else.”

Walter smiles with an eyebrow raised rather playfully. “So, we’re officially going with the flow.”

You laugh at that. “I guess we are.”

The conversation settles in mutual understanding and an agreement. You couldn’t be happier than knowing things are handled rather maturely.

Walter stands from the edge of the bathtub. He opens both arms as he walks up to you and hesitantly asks, “Can I have a hug?”

You snort because for a second, he looks like a child asking for candies. “Of course,” you say, putting down the hairbrush.

Without thinking twice, you step forward and into his arms. The hug is warm and easy. Nothing dramatic about it. He rubs his hand on your back as he mutters, “That was a good chat.”

You smile as you mutter back into his shoulder. “It really was.”

When he eventually lets go, his hands remain lightly resting against your upper arms.

Then one hand slides gently to the side of your head, his thumb briefly brushing a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

He smiles and gives one small nod. “I'll see you later.”

“See you later,” you easily reply.

Walter turns, walks out of the bathroom and disappears back into the hallway. Then catch your own reflection in the mirror again. And surprisingly, you feel lighter than you did five minutes ago.

-

YOU: I think we both needed it. There wasn't any awkwardness. [thoughtfully nods] We basically agreed to… 'Let's just see what happens.' And I actually really like that. Because now I feel like I can just enjoy being here, get to know people. There’s no pressure. [smiles]

-

By the time you finish your skincare and make your way into the bedroom, the villa has fallen into its familiar nighttime routine. You let out a content sigh as you climb into bed, fluffing the pillow and settling yourself under the duvet.

A minute or two later, Walter comes to the bed. He sets the tumbler on the bedside table before stretching his shoulders. Then his eyes drift toward your bedside table.

He points casually and says, “I think I just saw a spider.”

You narrow your eyes immediately. Then grab the throw pillow on the floor and lightly smack his side with it.

“Still not funny!”

In retaliation, Walter simply throws himself backwards onto the mattress, sending the entire bed bounces beneath the impact. You let out an undignified squeak as you're lifted a few centimeters into the air. “Walter, stop!”

He laughs while staying faceplanted on the bed. The sea breeze has clearly won its battle with his hair as several strands stick up at impossible angles. Without really thinking, you reach over. Your fingers lightly comb through his hair, smoothing down one stubborn piece before another immediately springs back up.

“It's hopeless,” you say with a soft laugh.

“So I've been told,” he mumbles. His voice muffled by the bed.

He doesn't move away and just lets you fuss with it for another moment.

You continue playing with Walter’s hair while watching people in and out of their beds, chatting with their partner and then, you spot Monique walks toward Patrick and Mandy’s bed. Or rather... Patrick and what used to be Mandy's bed. Which means Patrick and Monique are now sharing it.

Mandy, meanwhile, has already made herself comfortable in one of the spare single beds tucked into the corner of the room. She lies under the duvet alone, facing the wall as she adjusts her pillow.

The room becomes noticeably quieter when Patrick walks into the bedroom, but he’s not walking toward his shared bed with his new partner. Instead, he walks toward Mandy’s.

Only then Walter shifts, lifting himself to rest his head on the pillow and notices what’s happening in the room.

Patrick lifts his hand at Mandy for a small wave. “Hey.”

Mandy is drinking her water from her tumbler to answer verbally. So she smiles and waves back in answer.

Patrick stops at the end of her bed. “Can we a chat?”

Mandy is quiet for a beat. Then she offers him a polite, tired smile. “Can we do it tomorrow?”

There's no bite in her voice. She simply sounds exhausted. Like she can’t deal with anything at this moment.

Patrick nods immediately. “Yeah. Okay,” he says in understanding.

He scratches the back of his head and then takes a step back. “Goodnight.”

“Night,” Mandy plainly replies.

With that, Patricks simply returning to the bed now shared with Monique.

The room gradually settles once more and then all at once, the lights are out. Tonight, neither you nor Walter reaches for a cuddle. Somehow, after everything that's happened, it doesn't feel necessary. Comfortable silence is enough.

Instead, you shift slightly on the bed to find that comfortable position to sleep and you hear Walter shift beside you as well. In the dark, you notice him turning onto his side facing you.

He props his head up on one hand. Then lets out a long, dramatic sigh. “I want today to be over already,” he whispers.

A quiet laugh escapes you. “Yeah.

“The longest week of my life,” he whispers again.

You giggle. “It's only been two days.”

“Oh, damn.”

You shake your head, smiling into the darkness.

Eventually, the villa finally grows still and for the first time all day, no one has anything left to say.

-

The next morning, the bedroom lights blaze to life all at once and a chorus of groans immediately fills the room.

You dramatically pull your duvet over your head, shielding you from the harsh bright light. You take a deep breath before slowly blinking your eyes open. With a sleepy sigh, you push yourself upright until your back rests against the headboard. You decide to have a sip of water while your brain catches up with the fact that another day has started.

Around the room, the beds begin creaking. Mike stretches so dramatically that Chastity laughs at him. Patrick sleepily rubs both hands over his face. Monique is still curled beneath the duvet, looking as though she's contemplating ignoring the lights altogether. Mandy is already sitting up in her single bed, securing the messy bun with a hair claw.

Beside you, Walter lets out a low groan and throws one forearm over his eyes. He yawns so widely that it makes you yawn too.

“Morning,” he says, his voice sounds deeper in the morning.

You swallow your water and greet back. “Morning.”

He grins before finally dragging himself upright to sit beside you against the headboard.

For a while, the two of you simply sit there in comfortable silence, still gathering enough energy to become functioning human beings.

Walter tilts his head slightly. “I think it's sunny outside.”

You doubt that, but hope that he’s right. “You think so?”

“I can hear the birds. Chirping,” he says.

As if on cue, a chorus of cheerful chirping drifts in through the open windows.

You pause. Then laugh. “You're right.”

“I know my birds,” Walter says with a sleepy grin.

The moment you step through the sliding doors, warm sunshine immediately kisses your skin. And it feels good to finally see a bright, blue sky after the dark, cloudy for the past few days.

The entire garden looks different. The pool sparkles brilliantly under the sunny sky. The palm trees sway lazily in the gentle sea breeze. The ocean beyond the villa glitters like scattered glass.

“It’s a beautiful day,” you quietly murmur to yourself.

The others Islanders are spilling out of the main villa. The guys are heading to the open gym, working out. A couple girls are still inside to do their morning skincare routine first. You notice that Mandy has wrapped her yoga session early and is now refilling her tumbler with water in the open kitchen.

Walter steps out behind you with sunglasses on. He stretches his arms over his head before wandering toward one of the daybeds beside the pool. Then drops onto the cushions with a satisfied sigh.

The energy feels fresh. Like yesterday's tension has been left behind with the rain.

You slip your sandals off near the edge of the decking and the warm sand welcomes your bare feet. You begin walking toward the beach, planning to start the day with a swim.

The sound of waves grows louder with every step. A handful of seabirds skim low across the shoreline. The ocean stretches endlessly before you. Calm and clear. Inviting.

There couldn't be a better way to start the day. Taking one last deep breath of the salty morning air, you jog the final few steps toward the water before diving cleanly into the sea and the cool waves embrace you instantly. You swim farther than you intended, floating on your back for a while as you watch wisps of white cloud drift lazily across the endless blue sky.

Out here, the villa feels miles away. Just the steady rhythm of the tide carrying you gently up and down. Eventually, you paddle back toward shore, water streaming from your hair as you climb onto the sand.

The walk back to the villa is slow, your skin still cool from the sea while the morning sun gradually warms it again. You step onto the wooden decking, absently squeezing seawater from the ends of your hair.

As your eyes drift toward the pool, you notice Walter exactly where you left him. Except, he's no longer alone because Mandy has joined him. The two sit angled toward each other, drinks resting on the small table between them.

You pause for only a second, quietly taking in the sight before continuing toward the villa.

Yesterday, the three of you agreed to keep your options open. This, you suppose, is exactly what that looks like.

-

Music drifts softly from the outdoor speakers, mixing with the sound of waves crashing somewhere beyond the villa walls.

You had your breakfast and already changed into a pale blue bikini with a loose white linen shirt thrown over the top, finding yourself perched on the edge of the infinity pool. Your feet sway lazily under the water.

Beside you, Bianca mirrors your posture, one hand resting behind her for support. On your other side, Chastity absentmindedly splashes the water with her toes. While Mike and Patrick are leisurely swimming, showcasing their prowess on the backstroke swimming. When Mike emerges from the water, he puts heart-shaped sunglass on that he borrowed from Mandy before taking a sip of water. Looking goofy but adorable at the same time.

“This is how this should be,” chastity says as she adjust her sunglasses. “Hot and sunny.”

Bianca throws her flowing blonde hair to the back of her shoulder. “But I like it when it rains.”

Chastity pulls down her glasses just enough to glare at Bianca. “No, girl. I know you didn’t mean that.”

Bianca laughs and you snort into your glass of iced coffee. Then— DING!

The unmistakable text tone slices through the laughter. Every conversation stops. Every head turns.

Bianca picks up the phone resting on the edge of the sun lounger. “I've got a text!”

Immediately, the villa erupts. Within seconds, everyone begins making their way toward the pool.

Bianca clears her throat before reading the text aloud for everyone.

Islanders, let’s find out who came with the most baggage as your dirty little secrets will be revealed in today’s game. #excessbaggage #anythingtodeclare #kissandtell

For half a second, silence and then—

“YES!” Mike throws both fists into the air. “Our first game!”

“I've been waiting for this,” Kat softly says even when she’s excited.

“Oh, I love dirty little secrets,” Mancy chirps.

The mood instantly shifts because yesterday had been about uncertainty. Today promises fun and if everyone has learned anything after just three days together, it's that no Love Island game is ever just a game.

With that, the entire group jogs toward the shoreline together, laughing as Mike pretends he's leading an Olympic sprint while Patrick dramatically claims he's already out of breath.

The beach opens up ahead. A game arena has been set up overnight. Bright pink and turquoise flags flutter in the sea breeze. A long wooden platform sits in the middle of the sand, complete with a giant spinning carousel divided into sections, each marked with an Islander's name.

Towering above it is a gleaming metal chute. Beside the carousel sits a stack of colourful suitcases. Some blue. Some pink. All identical except for the luggage tags tied to their handles.

-

NARRATOR: The boys and the girls are going head-to-head in a game called Excess Baggage. We have ten suitcases, each containing a saucy secret about one of our Islanders. One at a time, the suitcases will come down a chute onto a baggage carousel, landing in section assigned to one of our Islanders. And the best part is… there really isn’t a prize for winning. It’s just a reality TV mechanism to designed to reveal the Islanders’ deepest and dirtiest secrets. Whoever opens the suitcase must try to match the secret to its rightful owner. Then, they get to identify the person they think the secret belongs to with a kiss. And for each right guess, they earn a point.

-

The Islanders have been separated into two lines. The boys line up along one side of the platform, standing shoulder to shoulder. Across from them, the girls form their own line.

Everyone watches the towering chute expectantly as the game is about to start. Then a bright blue suitcase suddenly shoots down the metal track.

It rattles loudly before dropping neatly onto the spinning carousel, round and round it goes and the carousel gradually slows. The girls lean in to see the suitcase lands on section with Bianca’s name on it.

She smiles as she steps forward, easily lifting the suitcase onto the nearby table. The metal clasps pop open and inside, on top of the stacks of folded clothes are a leather wallet and a sealed envelope. She picks up the envelope and slides the message out of it.

Everyone grows quiet as she reads what’s written on it. “'Which Islander has never spent more than sixty dollars on a date?'”

A chorus of exaggerated gasps erupts.

“No way.”

“Sixty?”

“That's rough.”

Your eyes immediately drift toward the boys and see how every single one of them is trying very hard to look innocent. Some are more convincing than others. And the rest… not so much.

Bianca takes a second to think before walking toward the line of boys. She studies them one by one. But she hovers around the three boys on the left. Joey, Cam and Patrick.

Bianca finally stops and leans in a gives Patrick a kiss. The kiss is so brief that in the next second, she’s already walking back to the suitcase. Patrick only grins in reaction but looking almost too relaxed as someone accused of being cheap.

Bianca unties the little luggage tag hanging from the suitcase handle, pulls open the sticker that covers the name at once. Then her eyes grow noticeably wider as she reveals the name.

“It’s Joey.”

The entire beach explodes because no one is expecting that. Especially Bianca who’s his current partner.

Joey lifts both hands in defeat and tries to keep it cool. “Love is not about money, okay?” he proudly defends himself.

That only makes everyone laugh even harder.

Mike clutches his stomach as he tells Joey, “Mate, you've been exposed for being cheap on international television.”

Joey nods in embarrassment. Then places a hand over his heart. “I promise that my personality is worth at least another forty dollars.”

The laughter from Joey's revelation is still echoing across the beach when the carousel begins moving again. Another bright blue suitcase appears at the top of the chute and it rattles loudly as gravity takes over. The suitcase shoots down the metal track before dropping neatly onto the spinning carousel and lands on Kat’s section.

Without wasting another second, Kat strolls confidently toward the table, lifting the suitcase with both hands. She pops open the silver clasps and this time, she finds a miniature toy aeroplane alongside another envelope.

“’Which Islander flew across the country to impress a girl?’”

A chorus of loud reactions follows.

You doubt if that’s even considered as a dirty secret. “That's commitment,” you mutter almost absentmindedly.

“That's either romantic,” Chastity comments with her folded arms in front of her. “Or concerning.”

A smile has already appeared on Kat’s small face. She seems to already have an answer in mind as she walks confidently toward the line of boys. She doesn’t spare the other boys a glance and keeps going until she stops directly in front of Mike.

Kat reaches up, gently cupping both sides of his jaw. Then leans in. The kiss is proper this time, soft and lasts long enough for the rest of the Islanders to let out a chorus of exaggerated,

“Ooooooooh!”

Kat pulls away wearing the tiniest smile of satisfaction while Mike lets out an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his neck, flustered either from the kiss or that his secret has just revealed. Or both.

Kat turns and walks back toward the suitcase. She rips the sticker that covers the name in one smooth pull. Then breaks into a grin.

“Mike!”

The beach erupts as Mike shlyly smiles and nods in defeat.

Chastity brightens almost immediately. “Oh yeah. Go, Mike!” she says, hyping his man like she didn’t mention how concerning Mike’s secret was.

“Were you in love?” Bianca curiously asks.

Mike laughs. “I thought I was.”

The Islanders erupt into a mixture of laughter and sympathetic groans. And already, the villa is discovering that everyone has at least one story they're glad they don't have to explain twice.

Almost on cue, another bright blue suitcase shoots down the chute and this time, it lands on Monique’s name. She collects the suitcase, walks up to the table and flicks open the silver clasps. Inside, is a shoe and she lifts it up with a confused look.

Monique places the shoe back into the suitcase before opening the envelope. “’Which Islander threw up in his shoe?’”

The beach erupts into a collective chorus of horrified groans.

“Ew!” Bianca shortly mutters with a repulsed look on her face.

Patrick laughs so hard he has to bend over. Either he’s giving away himself too easily or trying to deceive Monique.

Monique looks between the line of boys for approximately half a second. Then she struts her way toward the boys. You kind of guess that she’s going for Patrick.

And as expected, Monique walks straight toward Patrick. She cups his cheek lightly before leaning in. Red painted nails wrapped delicately on his jaw.  Their kiss is noticeably longer than the challenge probably requires. Or more like, making out in front of everyone.

Everyone else knows right away that Monique is simply wanting to kiss her man. Not doing it for the game’s sake. When she finally pulls away, Patrick is still grinning to himself. Actually, he's beaming.

Mike immediately notices and nudges his shoulder annoyingly. “Oh. Look at his face!”

Joey puts his arm around Patrick’s shoulders. “You enjoyed that too much, huh?”

Monique strolls back toward the table, looking entirely too pleased with herself. She pins her hair down on her shoulder with one hand as the other is busy revealing the name of the tag.

“It’s Cam!”

Every head turns toward Cam and he lightly shrugs. “I was eighteen, you guys.”

Before anyone can question him further, the carousel begins spinning once more and another suitcase starts its slow climb down the chute. Then it lands on Mandy’s section.

Mandy smiles as she steps away from the group and walks to get the suitcase. She turns it over once on the table and then flips open the clasps. Nestled inside the suitcase is a fake big diamond ring that fits Mandy’s arm instead of her finger. She sets it aside and reaching for the envelope. Then reads aloud.

“’Which Islander asked a girl to marry them after only knowing them for a few weeks?’”

For a split second, no one reacting and then it turns into absolute chaos in the next second. Even the boys are staring at one another in disbelief.

Your eyes quietly scan the boys and most of them are openly laughing, some look genuinely horrified. But one of them is trying just a little too hard to keep a straight face.

Mandy, meanwhile, doesn't appear conflicted in the slightest. She drops the envelope back into the suitcase. Then confidently walks toward the boys.

She doesn't pace in front of them, doesn’t hesitate or study their faces first. Instead, she walks straight to Patrick.

The moment she stops in front of him, Patrick's eyebrows lift and Mandy reaches up, cups his face with both hands. Then kisses him.

The Islanders let out a chorus of exaggerated cheers. “Oooooooh!”

But before anyone can react further, she pulls back only to lean in again. And she does it two more times before finally, pulling away completely. Even then, she’s giggling in satisfaction while Patrick looks still caught off guard by what just happened.

You instinctively glance sideways, finding Monique watching the whole thing with a completely flat expression. She doesn't even try to hide it.

“Cringe,” she mutters it quietly enough that only you hear.

Eventually, Mandy steps back from Patrick, still giggling as she returns toward the suitcase.

As she does, Monique leans subtly toward you and without taking her eyes off Patrick, she asks quietly, “Do you see him pulling away from her?”

The question catches you off guard. You hesitate because you don't want to fuel anything. And you definitely don't want to become the person passing judgment in the middle of someone else's situation.

You give a small shrug. “Maybe. I honestly can’t tell.”

Monique folds her arms together in front of her and then leans in to your side. “Whatever, right?”

You nod. “Right.”

Mandy reaches the table and unties the luggage tag while everyone else patiently waits in anticipation. She reads the name and bursts into laughter. “Patrick!”

A wave of shocked reactions sweeps across the beach.

“It actually was him?”

“Holy…”

Mike wheezes. “You proposed after weeks?”

Patrick hides his face behind one hand. “I was young!”

“How young?”

“Young enough to think it was a good idea.”

The boys burst into laughter again.

Mandy, still grinning from ear to ear, lifts her shoulders innocently. “The kisses were worth it.”

You can't help wincing ever so slightly but you can see how this game is clearly doing exactly what it was designed to do, dragging old feelings and awkward dynamics right into the middle of the beach.

Beside you, however, Monique barely seems bothered by Mandy's comment anymore. Instead, she's looking at Patrick with softened eyes. “I actually think that's kind of cute,” she says.

The carousel begins spinning one more time as the last blue suitcase appears at the top of the chute and it clatters as it lands on a section. Your section.

You let out a startled gasp as you step forward, lifting the suitcase from the carousel. You carry it over to the table and undo the clasps.

The lid opens and sitting in a crumple inside is a zebra-print swimsuit. You pinch it between two fingers and slowly lift it into the air as your face twists into a mixture of confusion and mild horror.

“What the hell is this?” you mutter, dropping it back into the case.

You take the envelope next and carefully pull out the card, unfold it to read what’s written on it.

“’Which Islander left a girl in his bed to go and sleep with his ex?’”

A disbelieving gasp escapes your mouth before you can stop it. And around you, the beach falls into stunned silence.

Mike physically grimaces as he mutters, “That's savage.”

Walter's eyebrows shoot upward. “Damn.”

For a long moment, you simply stare at the line of boys, trying to read them. Unlike the others before you, you don't immediately walk toward anyone. Instead, you slowly pace in front of them, watching and studying, hoping to catch some sort of cracks in their expression.

Mike looks horrified still. Joey looks amused. Walter simply meets your gaze, calm as ever. You immediately rule him out since he'd already told you he'd been single for quite a while. It doesn't fit the culprit so your attention drifts between Cam and Patrick. Both are smiling. Both are trying not to look suspicious. But Patrick’s grin... looks just crooked enough to make you second-guess yourself.

You decide to just follow your gut and step toward him. you don’t give yourself another chance to back out but gently cup his face and press a quick peck on his lips. It lasts barely a second. Then you're already turning away, hurry back toward the suitcase.

You grip the luggage tag and rip it open to reveal the name on the tag. “It’s… Cam.”

A collective groan ripples across the beach.

“Ohhhh... no.”

Kat's smile disappears almost instantly, looking genuinely disappointed to find that out.

Cam lets out a long sigh before rubbing both hands over his face. “I just... I wasn’t feeling it. I wasn’t vibing with the girl.”

He gestures vaguely and laughs awkwardly. “She was kind of… like a dead fish so I told her that I’d be back, but didn’t.”

The Islanders stare at him and Cam immediately realises that his explanation hasn't helped at all. It only makes it worse.

Mike winces and sighs as he plainly quoted. “Dead fish.”

A horrified groan escapes you before you can stop it. “Oh, God.”

Walter pinches the bridge of his nose. "That somehow got worse with every sentence.”

You leave the table and immediately finding Kat looking flabbergasted. You feel bad for her so you walk up to her, wrapping your arms around her for a quick hug.

“Oh, God. I’m so sorry,” you murmur quietly beside her ear in sympathy.

Kat doesn't hug you back right away and simply stands there, still trying to process the image that has just been painted of the man she'd started getting to know.

-

NARRATOR: At the end of that round, the girls scored a monumental two points out of five. It’s like they don’t even know these guys they just met yesterday. Let’s hope the boys do better.

-

The girls shuffle into a line on one side of the platform while the boys swap places with you.

The carousel is cleared. The blue suitcases disappear. In their place, a row of bright pink suitcases waits at the top of the chute.

A while later, the first pink suitcase is released and lands on Cam’s name. He strolls over to the carousel, lifting the suitcase onto the table. Unlike everyone before him, he doesn't even glance inside but flips the clasps open and reaches straight for the envelope.

Cam unfolds the card. Then reads aloud. “’Which Islander made friends with a girl to get with her brother?’”

Beside you, Bianca bursts into laughter. “That's actually diabolical.”

Across the platform, Mike folds his arms, looking intrigued by the revealed secret. “That's spicy.”

“It really is,” Joey agrees.

Your eyes drift down the line of girls. Bianca? Not a chance since she said it’s diabolical. Kat? Maybe. Monique? Mandy? Chastity? You honestly have no idea.

Cam folds the card shut and looks toward the girls. A slow grin appears as he starts walking.

Your stomach tightens for unknown reason even though you do realize that it’s not your secret. Who's he going to pick?

Cam passes Bianca, keeps walking pass Kat and then stops right in front of you.

"...Oh."

A few playful whistles immediately sound from the boys. You look up at Cam, but not looking him in the eyes. The blue seductive eyes.

Because he's noticeably taller than you, Cam bends ever so slightly. One hand comes up. His fingers lightly cup beneath your chin, tilting your face toward his. The gesture catches you by surprise and you barely have time to react before he closes the distance. His lips meet yours in a soft kiss.

At first, it's exactly what the challenge calls for. Brief and playful. But just as you begin to pull away, Cam's hand shifts gently to the side of your face, and he instinctively draws you that tiny bit closer. The kiss lingers for another heartbeat. Just long enough for the boys to start howling.

“I knew he'd stretch the rules,” one of the boys shouts. You don’t know who as you’re still catching up to things.

Cam finally eases back with an amused grin while you blink once before a flustered laugh escapes you. Still smiling to himself, he turns and heads back toward the suitcase. He unties the luggage tag and flips it over to reveal the name.

“Chastity.”

Chastity immediately bursts into laughter and proudly lifts both hands. “Guilty.”

The boys howl with laughter and Mike points across the platform. “Did it work?”

Chastity grins shamelessly. “No. But her brother was cute.”

The tension from the earlier secrets melts away once more as the next pink suitcase goes down the chute. And this time, Walter receives the honour to uncover the next secret,

“’Which Islander's mother found a list of all the guys she had slept with?’”

Walter chuckles as he folds the card shut. “I think...”

He slowly scans the line of girls. One by one. His gaze lingers on Monique. Then Mandy. Then settles on Bianca. He steps forward, lightly placing a hand against her cheek before giving her a quick, respectful kiss.

Walter walks back to the suitcase and flips over the luggage tag. “Bianca.”

The boys cheer as they earned their first point for guessing it right.

Binaca gets shy and laughs so hard she has to bend over slightly. “My mum still brings it up every Christmas.”

Before anyone can recover, another pink suitcase shoots down the chute. Mike claps his hands together as he got picket to do the next secret reveal.

“Come on. Give me something good,” he mutters as he flips the suitcase open. Then reaches for the envelope containing a secret.

“’Which Islander took three guys' virginities?’”

“THREE?” Joey looks genuinely surprised. “Oh, that's iconic.”

Mike looks down the line of girls with exaggerated seriousness. He stops in front of you for a second before going for Mandy. He gently cups her shoulder before leaning in for a kiss.

When he pulls away, Mandy's cheeks have noticeably pinkened. A shy smile tugs at the corner of her lips. For just a fleeting second, she almost looks as though she's wondering whether Mike chose her for more than the game.

Mike, meanwhile, is already jogging back toward the suitcase. “Let's see...”

He flips over the tag and triumphantly laughs as he shows it to everyone. The tag indeed says, MANDY.

The carousel begins spinning once more and another pink suitcase races down the chute.

Patrick takes the task seriously. He lifts it onto the table and inside is a miniature football. He picks it up to recklessly throws it at the boys.

“’Which Islander spent a night at a famous football star's house?’”

“Who knows footballers?” Mike asks he looks at the girls.

You carefully keep your expression neutral because inside, you already know.

Patrick looks thoughtfully across the line of girls. He studies Bianca but then eventually stops in front of Kat. He gives Kat a quick kiss before heading back to the suitcase.

He unties the tag and turns it over only to see your name on it.

Every head turns toward you and you feel like you’re being cornered.

“Okay, you need to tell us which football star?” Joey asks in utter seriousness.

You grin and shake your head. “I can't tell you.”

“Oh, come on!” Mike shouts in disappointment.

“I signed an NDA, you guys,” you share while laughing. “But nothing happened. I swear. I knew him from a friend and I only talked to him for like… ten minutes. Then stayed in his guesthouse.”

Bianca looks at you with a pout and envious. “I don’t know anything about football. But I’m jealous of you.”

You gently grip her arm and pull her to your side, pressing your head to her shoulder as you laugh.

The game eventually comes to an end and everyone begins walking back toward the villa together, your footprints trailing behind you in the damp sand as the ocean sparkles beside you.

-

NARRATOR: The girls and the boys each only got two points. So they equally win, or lost —depending on your perspective.

-

Back in the villa, the girls are gathered on the daybed near the pool. Meanwhile the boys are somehow working out again in the outdoor gym across the pool.

You sit on the edge of the bed, snacking on an apple when the conversation naturally drifts back toward the game earlier.

“I genuinely wasn't expecting Joey to be the sixty-dollar date guy,” Chastity laughs.

Bianca laughs almost instinctively. “All along, I’ve been saying I don’t like a guy who’s frugal.”

The girls laugh while Monique shakes her head as she says, “And Patrick proposing after only a few weeks...” She looks over toward him, where he's chatting with Mike. “I always thought that he’s that type who jump the gun.”

Your attention shifts when Mandy turns toward Kat. “What about you? Which secret surprised you the most?”

Kat is too busy chewing on a grape to talk. Once she swallowed it, only then she answers. “The one where he left a girl in bed to sleep with his ex.”

“How are you feeling about that?” Monique asks, slightly concerned.

The playful atmosphere softens almost instantly. Kat looks down at the cushion in her lap. Her fingers absentmindedly smooth the fabric. “It messed me up. Obviously.”

Everyone stays quiet.

Kat gives a small, almost embarrassed smile. “I was once in that situation. But I was the girl who got left for his ex.”

Your heart sinks hearing it. “Aww, no…”

Nobody says anything for a moment. The only sound is the faint sound of waves lapping the shore.

“I'm sorry,” Bianca says softly.

Kat puts on a thin smile. “I hope that it happened years ago or something…”

You instinctively reach over, rubbing slow circles across the middle of her back. “I think you should talk to Cam about it.”

Kat nods almost immediately. “Oh, I will,” she says, briefly glancing toward the boys. “I'm definitely going to bring it up.”

You let your hand lingers on her back, quietly hoping that things are going well for her because she’s such a kind and sweet person. And that Cam has no intention on harming her.

You lean in close and whisper, “I’d break his legs for you, you know that?”

Kat bursts into laughter at that, but hidden underneath it… some secrets carried a little more weight than others. And everyone in the villa was beginning to realise that the past had a funny way of showing up when you least expected it.

-

By the time the sun disappears beyond the horizon, the villa has transformed once again.

The soft golden light gives way to warm amber lamps tucked between palm trees. The pool glows turquoise beneath the night sky. Music hums softly through hidden speakers.

The air is cooler now, carrying the scent of salt from the ocean beyond the garden walls. You finish the final swipe of blush across your cheeks before leaning back from the mirror. Your outfit tonight is simple but pretty—a fitted top paired with a flowing skirt that moves with every step.

You smooth your hands over the fabric one last time.

“Ready?” Bianca asks as she gives her hair a light ruffle.

“Yep,” you answer as you’re spritzing some perfume on you,

The two of you head out and almost everyone has already found somewhere to settle.

The boys have naturally split into smaller groups. Patrick, Joey and Walter are gathered around the outdoor kitchen. Kat and Cam share the hammock together, talking quietly. And hopefully, they're having that conversation. Monique lounges nearby with a drink in hand, chatting casually with Bianca after she wanders over.

Your eyes continue wandering across the villa and eventually land on Mandy. She’s perched comfortably on one of the sun loungers. Not with Patrick or Walter. But with Mike. The two of them are shoulder to shoulder, drinks in hands as they laugh about something neither of you can hear.

“Well, that didn't take long,” a familiar voice chuckles beside you.

Chastity. She's carrying two glasses of wine. She hands one to you before lowering herself onto the oversized daybed. You gladly join her, stretching your legs in front of you.

Without looking away from Mandy and Mike, Chastity leans closer, lowering her voice dramatically. “I think Mandy's officially on a mission.”

You follow her gaze and watch as Mandy reaches over to lightly shove Mike's shoulder after he says something that makes her laugh again.

You smile into your drink. “I mean… she's single.”

“It was Patrick. Then Walter. And now… she’s going for my man,” Chastity says with a low sigh.

You watch Mike and Mandy continue talking. Mike is naturally charming, easy-going and funny. The sort of person who can make conversation with absolutely anyone. And Mandy seems relaxed beside him. Far more relaxed than she'd looked twenty-four hours ago.

You take another sip from your drink. “But if I were single in here, I'd probably be doing the same thing.”

“You'd be grafting?”

“I'd at least be talking to everyone.”

Chastity gasps dramatically. “You? The chill queen?”

You laugh at the nickname. “Is that what everyone calls me?”

She nods. “Yeah.”

You snort but nodding in approval. “I like that.”

The two of you sit there for another moment, quietly watching the villa carry on around you.

Across the pool, Mandy laughs again at something Mike whispers to her. You exchange one last amused look with Chastity and share a personal opinion. “But like… it could be her strategy, you know?”

Chastity swallows her drink before turning toward you. “What?”

You subtly gesture toward Mandy. “You know, making herself available to everyone and at the same time, she’s making options for herself.”

Chastity gives you a side glance. “Operation Find-A-Man, you mean?”

You snort into your drink. “No, I think she's just taking Love Island very literally.”

You both breaks into laughter at that as the villa settles into another warm evening, conversations overlapping beneath the stars.

Only a few days in and already, everyone is moving, testing connections.

Tonight, though, you decide not to overthink any of it. Instead, you simply sit back beside Chastity, enjoying the warm night, the music drifting through the villa, and the strange comfort of knowing that tomorrow would almost certainly bring another surprise.

-

Someone—no one is quite sure who—suggests another drink. Someone else suggests music.

Within minutes, the villa has drifted into one big group again in the seating area. Walter stretches across one end of the couch and Mandy practically claims the seat beside him before anyone else can. Mike is leaning against one of the wooden pillars with a drink in hand while Chastity keeps finding excuses to wander over and talk to him. Patrick and Monique share one side of the seating area. Kat sits beside you, curled into the corner with her legs tucked under her.

Joey appears from the kitchen holding a pineapple above his head like a trophy. “Guys, want to play spin the pineapple?”

Patrick lets out a soundless laugh. “You couldn't find a bottle?”

“But this is Fiji,” Joey simply replies as he places the pineapple in the middle of the wooden table.

Somehow, everyone agrees on a game of spin the bottle but instead of a bottle… we’re using a pineapple.

Joey gives it a dramatic spin and it whirls across the tabletop. The leafy crown wobbles back and forth before gradually slowing and points at Kat.

“Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

He barely thinks before asking, “Have you ever made out with strangers?”

Kat hides her face for a second before laughing herself. “Oh my God.”

Next to her, Cam looks at Kat in anticipation.

Kat inhales deeply. Then talks again. “I just turned 21 that night. I was in a bar with friends, having drinks. Made eye contact with this guy across the room. He was about… 30-ish?”

Everyone nods, listening intently to the rest of the story.

Kat’s voice stays soft and light as she continues. “Flash forward, we were hooking up in the bathroom when his wife walks in looking for him and turns out… they were there to celebrate their 5-year anniversary.”

There is exactly one second of stunned silence before it breaks into an absolute chaos.

“No!” Chastity groans. “He did not!”

Kat nods furiously. “He absolutely did!”

Still laughing, Joey spins the pineapple again and this time, it points directly back at him.

Mike takes over almost immediately. “Truth or dare, mate?”

“Truth,” Joey shortly answers.

Patrick grins as he comes up with the question. “What's something you say during sex?”

Joey immediately groans. Then sighs dramatically. “I hate all of you.”

He clears his throat anyway. “Apparently, I say either ‘That’s it, darling’ or ‘Good on ya, darlin’,” he shares with his thick Australian accent somehow becomes even thicker.

There is a beat of silence. Then everyone immediately starts repeating it back to him in dramatically terrible Australian accents.

Joey points around the circle. “Those are all terrible.”

“Joey, please lose the accent next time,” Mandy groans.

“What’s the problem?” Joey says with a protesting tone.

“Because it’d sound like having sex with the crocodile Dundee.”

A moment passes with another wave laughter before Joey spins the pineapple again and it stops in front of Patrick.

“Dare,” he shortly says.

Joey's grin immediately grows. “Kiss the girl who you think has the prettiest eyes.”

An impressed chorus echoes around the group.

Patrick doesn't hesitate. He gets to his feet, walks around the table and stops in front of Kat.

She looks up in surprise but doesn’t have much change to react as he leans down and gives her a gentle kiss.

The Islanders howl.

Cam throws both hands into the air dramatically. “I'm sitting right here, man!”

Kat laughs as Patrick returns to his seat. “It was just a dare!”

“No, I mean, everyone knows I have the prettiest eyes here” Cam replies, grinning.

Joey spins again and the pineapple turns. And turns. Before the leaves settle in your direction.

“Truth,” you blurt out almost immediately.

Patrick rubs his hands together. “Tell us a funny moment during spicy times…” he emphasizes with a sizzling sound effect.

You wheeze for a second before running your hands against your thighs. “Oh, I've actually got one.”

Everyone leans in, already investing on it.

“I had a one-night stand with this guy. At one point, I told him to get some lube from the bathroom,” you pause to let out a laugh, already amused by the recalled memory. “And he came back with a bottle of nail polish remover.”

The entire villa explodes in laughter.

Mike physically bends over laughing. “How?”

“I don't know!” You say while laughing helplessly.

Even Kat has tears in her eyes. “I'm crying.”

Without missing a beat, Joey spins the pineapple again. It circles before landing on Walter.

“Truth,” he blurts out right away.

Joey smiles mischievously. “Of the girls here, who would be the one you’d sleep with?”

Walter barely pauses. He simply turns his head and points to the girl sitting next to him. Mandy.

Mandy's face immediately lights up before going all giggly and flustered. As everyone whistles and teases them, she reaches over without thinking and rests her hand lightly on Walter's thigh. He doesn't seem to mind.

And again, as you’re watching the two of them, you don't feel that uncomfortable twist in your stomach you half expected. Instead, something quietly clicks into place that maybe the connection between you and Walter really isn't growing beyond friendship. And you're okay with that.

Joey gives the pineapple one more enthusiastic spin and it finally points toward—

“Chastity!”

She immediately grins. “Dare.”

“I’ll go easy on you,” Joey says with a grin. “Go kiss whoever you want to kiss right now.”

Without so much as a second's hesitation, Chastity gets to her feet and walks straight across the decking.

Mike is still leaning casually against the wooden pillar with his drink when Chastity reaches up, hooks a hand lightly around the back of his neck and kisses him. A proper kiss that is confident and playful.

Mike smiles into it almost instantly, one arm naturally settling around her waist as he kisses her back.

The villa cheers, howls and claps in reaction. Like it’s their first time watching people making out in front of them.

When Chastity finally steps away, she's wearing the most triumphant grin imaginable. She strolls back to the sofa as though nothing happened.

The second she sits beside you, you laugh and reach over. You give her upper arm a playful squeeze. “Good job, girl. Well done!” you say in both pride and amusement.

She tries to look composed, but fails almost immediately. A huge smile spreads across her face. “I know.”

The two of you dissolve into laughter together as Joey reaches for the pineapple once more, already eager to discover whose turn would be next.

-

The night eventually winds down. Everyone heads inside as the night settles into a quieter, slower rhythm.

You change into your usual sleep clothes of white shorts and a cropped tee, brushing your hair down before finally head toward the bedroom.

The room is of course still the slightest bit of chaotic. Walter isn't there yet when you get to your shared bed. You climb on anyway, hugging a throw pillow to your chest as you settle under the duvet.

You look around and see most of the islanders are already on their beds. Mike and Chastity are already tucked to their bed with their glasses on. Patrick quietly chats with Monique as she plays with his curls. Cam and Kat lying facing each other in bed, talking softly enough that nobody else can hear. So it seems like the conversation they had went well.

A few minutes later, Walter walks in carrying his water bottle. He catches your eye and smiles. “Hey, cutie.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Cutie? That’s new.”

He slips into the bed beside you with an easy sigh. “Because you’re cute.”

You accept the compliment and cup your own face with both hands. Smiling brightly, you sweetly say, “Thank you.”

Walter chuckles at that, fixing the positioning of his pillow before settling in. And to everyone else, it looks like he’s flirting. Maybe he is, but it’s a tame one. One that you do to a friend. Or people you have platonic relationship with.

And that’s okay. If anything, you’re glad that you’re not forcing it, or pretend that something is there when it isn’t.

You glance around the room again and notice all these couples feeling comfortable with each other to have share quiet laughter and sleepy smiles with. You don’t envy them because you wish someone was holding you, or you suddenly wanted cuddles.

But you crave a connection. Which is the one thing you came here for. And knowing that you’re not connecting with anyone here feels like a bummer.

You quietly glance sideways and finds Walter is already lying on his back, staring at the ceiling. And the fact that he subtly hinted that he’s interested in Mandy only confirms that his head is already turned, his attention has shifted to that person.

And to you, it simply confirms what you've both already acknowledged. The spark never really appeared.

There are no hard feelings whatsoever and you actually respect his openness and honesty.

And now, you’re just two people sharing a bed while quietly figuring out that maybe they were meant to be friends instead.

Eventually, the bedroom lights switch off and darkness washes over the villa.

The usual chorus begins. Someone whispers goodnight. Someone else giggles. The duvet rustles as everyone settles into their favourite sleeping positions.

You close your eyes and as sleep slowly begins pulling at you, one tiny thought slips quietly through your mind.

Maybe tomorrow. Tomorrow things change for you.

-

YOU: [clasps hands together] Love Island, I’m begging you. Please, bring in some hot boys. I am respectfully requesting— No. I am pleading. [laughs] Please get me a man. I'm ready. Send him in.

-

The lights. Again. They're impossibly bright.

You let out a sleepy groan, burying your face into your pillow for one last, desperate attempt at pretending morning hasn't arrived. No such luck.

Around the bedroom, similar protests rise from every direction.

You slowly peel one eye open before finally surrendering. With a quiet sigh, you sit up against the headboard, rubbing the sleep from your eyes. Your hair is an absolute mess. Your cheeks still carry faint pillow creases.

Outside, the familiar chorus of birdsong drifts through the cracks in the windows. A smile slowly tugs at your lips because at least, you’re waking up to another sunny morning. At least the weather never disappoints.

Beside you, Walter is already awake. Unlike everyone else, he somehow looks completely functional. “Morning,” he greets as he stretches both arms over his head before swinging his legs over the edge of the bed.

“Morning,” you mumble back. “You are way too cheerful.”

“I've accepted my fate.”

“Well, I haven't.”

Walter laughs quietly before grabbing his water bottle and walks toward the bedroom door while everyone else remains in various stages of pretending to be asleep.

His hand reaches the handle, slides the door open and then immediately freezes. Without a word, he slowly steps back inside and slides the door close again.

The room falls strangely quiet as Walter turns around. His expression is somewhere between confused and amused.

“Guys, there are…” he pauses for dramatic effect. “...two new boys outside.”

There’s a second of silence and then—

“WHAT?”

You are already moving before your brain has fully caught up. You practically leap to your feet. Your robe barely makes it onto your shoulders before you're hurrying across the room.

Walter laughs as you gently push past him. You peek over his shoulder through the narrow opening as he cracks the door again.

The bright morning sunlight pours across the deck outside and there, by the pool... Two unfamiliar men. Both wearing swim shorts. Both impossibly relaxed. One is sitting casually on the edge of the pool with his feet in the water. The other is already waist-deep, leaning comfortably against the side.

As if sensing your presence, both of them look toward the villa. One raises a hand. The other flashes an easy smile before waving.

Your eyebrows immediately shoot upward. “Oh!!?”

Someone squeezes in beside you. And then another. You turn your head to find Mandy and Bianca on each side of you. The three of you stand shoulder to shoulder in the doorway, shamelessly peeking outside.

“They’re actually… really fit,” Mandy whispers, excitement laced her tone.

A moment later, the three of you instinctively step aside from the doorway and freak out almost at the same time.

“Oh my God!!!”

-

YOU: It feels like Christmas, y’all [shrieks] [laughs] there are two new boys and they’re so hot! [enthusiastically claps]

-

The villa erupts into life. Sleep is forgotten almost instantly. The boys file out first and laughing amongst themselves, while the girls trail after them in various states of trying to look presentable.

You duck back into the bedroom for all of three seconds. You run your fingers through your tangled hair, attempting to flatten the stubborn pieces sticking up from sleep. You smooth the front of your white shorts and then tug down the hem of your grey cropped T-shirt.

And ff course you get the urge to make a run to the dressing room and put on a makeup. Scared that they’d be disappointed that you don’t look cute. But you hope that even if you show up like this, they appreciate how you look with a bareface and comfortable clothes.

You square your shoulders, put on a smile and walk outside. And get greeted by the warm sun that instantly kisses your skin.

The two bombshells are already chatting comfortably with the Islanders. Mike is exchanging a handshake with them. Joey has somehow already convinced everyone that he's the funniest person in the villa. Walter leans casually against the outdoor kitchen island, quietly observing the newcomers.

You make your way over and the first boy notices you almost immediately. He has neatly cropped brown hair. A well-groomed beard frames a square jaw. One entire arm disappears beneath intricate black tattoos. Broad shoulders. Solid build. Confident posture.

He smiles as he introduces himself. “Hi, I’m Trevor,” he says, his Irish accent reaches you before his hand does.

You introduce yourself, earning another easy smile from him. “It's lovely to meet you, Trevor.”

“You too.” He steps forward first, opening his arms just enough for a quick greeting hug.

You gladly return it and gosh, you’re surprised by his built body. When you step back, your eyes accidentally dip to his defined abs. Like he was born to this world with that six-pack.

Trevor doesn't seem to notice. Or if he does... He's polite enough not to mention it.

Monique takes her turn next to introduce herself to Trevor so you naturally turn to the other new guy. He’s there, standing with his half back turned and casually chatting with Mike.

You approach slowly and at first, he doesn’t notice you. Your heart gives the tiniest, completely unexpected flutter. You instinctively tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

Why am I nervous?

The man suddenly turns around and time seems to slow. His smile arrives first. Soft, almost shy. The kind of smile that instantly makes someone look approachable. Yet, the moment his eyes meet yours, you notice the confidence and the intensity that catches you completely off guard.

You find yourself staring for half a heartbeat longer than you should. Your eyes do the wandering without you intend to.

He's tall. Lean rather than bulky. Long dark hair brushes the nape of his neck, slightly tousled from the ocean breeze. His face is all elegant angles. Sharp cheekbones. Straight nose. Full lips curved into that impossibly gentle smile. Black ink trails across the left side of his torso before disappearing beneath his swim shorts. Smaller tattoos decorate his fingers. A small eyebrow piercing catches the morning sunlight. Everything about him should feel carefully put together. But at the same time, he somehow looks effortlessly himself.

And for reasons you can't quite explain, you can't stop looking. There's something about him. Something you can't quite put your finger on. Not just that he's attractive. Although... God, he is.

It's something underneath that. Something quietly magnetic. You realise a second too late that you've been standing there without saying anything.

You laugh softly at yourself and hurry, introducing yourself. “Hi, nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you,” he says, his voice is lower than you expected. Smooth.

He steps forward, opening one arm for a quick hug and you instinctively step into it. The embrace is brief. But as he leans in, you catch the scent of his perfume. Something vanilla, balanced by something bolder and sharper.  It lingers for only a second before he lets go.

When he pulls back, the same gentle smile returns. “I'm Hyunjin.”

The name settles somewhere in the back of your mind almost immediately.

It's far too early. You know it is. You've known this man for all of thirty seconds. But standing here, looking into those warm, quietly observant eyes...

You feel something you haven't felt since arriving at the villa. The unmistakable spark of curiosity. And maybe…

The beginning of attraction.

-

YOU: I like him [shyly smiles] that one guy… [giggles] Hyunjin.

-

✨ 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!

NARRATOR: Previously on Love Island. Ten hopeful singles arrived in paradise, all looking for one thing... Love. They coupled up to create our first matches. Then, to shake things up, Bombshell Monique arrived with the power to steal any boy she wanted. And while some Islanders grew closer— well, some more than others. Monique had 24 hours to get to know each guy before deciding which one to steal.

Now, we’re back at the villa and Monique is finally ready to use her power and steal the man of her choice. Her decision will break up one of our couples. Which boy will she choose?

-

The fire crackles softly but it doesn’t help much to ease the building tension in the villa.

Monique stands alone in front of the fire pit, hands clasped together as every pair of eyes in the villa remains fixed on her. No one rushes her. In fact, the production staff seem to encourage the silence.

You believe that the cameras are zooming in on everyone’s reaction. Patrick swallows. Mandy's fingers tighten around his hand. Mike sits perfectly still. Cam scratches absentmindedly at his jaw. Joey rubs his palms against his knees. Walter shifts beside you almost imperceptibly.

Including you, you can hear your own heartbeat. Nervous for no absolute reason.

Monique draws another slow breath and then licks her lips. “The boy that I want to couple up with...”

The words hang in the humid evening air as everyone seem to collectively holding their breath and not letting go until Monique finishes that sentence.

-

YOU: Guys! [dramatically groans] The suspense is killing me!

-

“And the boy that I want to couple up with is…”

Monique smiles nervously and then—

“...Patrick.”

For a split second, nothing happens. It is as though the entire villa needs a moment to process what it has just heard. Then, almost in unison, every head turns toward the middle of the curved sofa where Patrick and Mandy are sitting side by side as a couple.

Patrick's eyebrows lift in genuine surprise. Then a smile slowly spreads across his face. He’s certainly surprised but also like… happy about it.

Next to him, Mandy smiles too. But it's a completely different smile. Her plump lips pulled into a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes.

You instinctively press your lips together, stopping yourself from going, ‘Oh... Mandy’.

Patrick glances toward Mandy and their eyes meet. She gives him the tiniest nod that silently says, Go on.

He returns a grateful smile before making his way around the fire pit and then toward Monique. The second he reaches her, the two exchange a hug before standing side by side in front of the fire pit.

The Islanders begin clapping for both of them. Not because they aren't surprised. Quite the opposite. Everyone looks thoroughly blindsided.

Despite yourself, a tiny laugh of disbelief escapes you. But it fades almost immediately as your attention returns to Mandy. She's still smiling and clapping. Yet her eyes shimmer against the firelight. You can see the tears gathering and held back only by sheer determination.

The applause gradually dies away and then a chime comes from the phone resting on Mandy’s side. She looks down, takes a quiet breath and unlocks the screen. Her voice is steady, remarkably so, as she begins reading.

Mandy, you’re single now and your place in the villa is at risk. There will be another recoupling at the end of the week. And the Islander not picked will be dumped from the Island. #suddenlysolo #werkyourflirt

The villa falls quiet again. Nobody really knows what to say. But then again, all of you are well aware of how this show works.

Mandy lowers the phone and looks around at everyone, still smiling through the pain. When she looks at you, you offer him an encouraging smile and a tiny nod. But then she looks down and you notice right away how her lips are trembling as she presses them together — she’s on the verge of crying.

Then comes another chime and this time, it comes from the phone Patrick is holding. He unlocks it and reads it aloud for everyone to hear.

Patrick and Monique, you're officially coupled up! It's time for your first date. Please get ready and leave the villa immediately. #newconnection #datetime

With that, Patrick and Monique wave at everyone. “See you later.”

The Islanders clap once more as the newly formed couple as the two walk away and disappear through the sliding doors to get ready for their date.  As soon as they're gone, the fire pit feels noticeably quieter.

One new couple has formed. One Islander now stands alone. And the first recoupling has changed the balance of the villa far more than anyone expected.

-

The villa stays quiet for a moment after Patrick and Monique disappear inside.

The usual chatter doesn't return straight away. Instead, everyone instinctively looks toward Mandy remains seated for another second, staring into the fire as if she's still catching up to what just happened. Then Bianca is the first to stand.

Without saying a word, she walks over and wraps Mandy in a hug. “Oh, babe...”

Kat joins next. Then Chastity. You step forward last, slipping your arms gently around Mandy's shoulders.

She lets out a quiet laugh through her nose. “I'm okay.”

When everyone lets go, you keep one reassuring hand against the small of her back. A silent reminder that she's not standing alone.

“Come on,” you say softly. “Let's get a drink.”

The group naturally drifts back toward the outdoor kitchen, getting back to their drinks that have been abandoned. The celebratory mood has disappeared. This time, they drink to give themselves something to do while the villa settles after its first real shock.

You lean against the kitchen island with your half-finished Aperol spritz and Walter stands beside you, refilling his glass with wine. After a moment, he looks over at Mandy and curiously asks. “Did you see that coming?”

Mandy lets out a short laugh. "God, no. Not even a little bit.”

She shakes her head, taking a sip of wine before continuing. “The funny thing is, we were chatting about all of this. With the girls. In the bedroom. The whole conversation happened.”

Mandy looks between everyone. “We were joking about who she was going to pick. Patrick was there. She never mentioned his name. She didn’t talk to me about it.”

You nod in confirmation. “Yeah. We were there.”

Beside you, Bianca also nodding and almost innocently, she says, “Maybe he won’t even like her.”

“No, that’s the thing,” Mandy says, swinging her wine glass around as she talks, “I don’t want him back.”

Joey who’s been listening from the back, quietly howling and laughing in reaction.

“Sheesh…” Cam hisses and wince at the other end of kitchen island. “Just like that?”

“Because I could tell that he wanted her to pick him,” Mandy doesn’t hesitate at all. “So I just feel disrespected in a way.”

The word hangs in the air.

Mandy barely sips her drink as she starts ranting again. “It’s like you guys couldn’t just talk to me about it. I kissed him. We were cuddling all night,” she holds up one finger. “You can’t do all that while you want someone else to pick you.”

The glass has long since lost its chill, warming in her hand as her emotions continue bubbling to the surface. Then she shrugs, almost nonchalantly. Like she didn’t just go through the five stages in under five minutes.

“I'm moving on,” she says, punctuating the sentence with another sip of wine.

A comfortable silence follows and from behind you, Mike playfully mutters, “Whoa. The tea is piping hot tonight.”

For a beat, nobody reacts. Then you snort and the villa instantly erupts into laughter. The hilarity of the moment is enough to make everyone breathe again. Because if there was one thing everyone could agree on, it was that this season had officially begun.

-

YOU: Mandy is coming out of the recoupling… blazing [winces] and it’s getting spicy [glances sideways]

-

The conversation around the outdoor kitchen slowly splinters into smaller groups.

Mandy pulls you by the hand, dragging you with her to the daybed. Soon, you settle onto the edge, folding one leg under you.

For a little while, the two of you simply watch the pool lights shimmer across the water while enjoying your wine. Neither of you feels any rush to fill the silence, then Mandy exhales and turns toward you.

“Am I tripping?” she asks you. “I don’t want to look crazy.”

You understand that she was purely upset about her situation and you would have acted the same if you were in her position. You lean in just slightly. “I don't think you're being crazy,” you assure her.

You grab a throw pillow and prop it between you and the edge of the daybed. “I don't think Monique choosing Patrick was the issue. But she should've spoken to you first.”

Mandy doesn’t even hesitate. She points at you with her wine glass. “Exactly!”

“I mean, she came and spoke to me before she even pulled Walter,” you share.

Mandy nods quickly. “That's exactly what I'm saying. It's not that she picked Patrick. But it’s shady on his part.”

You nod thoughtfully and quickly add, “I don't think it's completely Monique's fault.”

“It's both of them,” Mandy says, bringing her wine close to her mouth, but not drinking it. “If Patrick had come to me. And talked to me. I would've been upset. But at least I would've known.”

You nod. “Yeah. You’re right.”

Back in the kitchen, you believed her when she said she’s moving on. But the way she’s still ranting about Patrick and Monique, it looks like she’s barely doing it. Mandy eventually falls quiet. The breeze lifts a few loose strands of her curls.

When she speaks again, her voice is much softer. “They couldn't just think about my feelings for one second?”

The question isn't really directed at you. It's directed at the universe. At the situation. At everything.

You decide that it’s best for you to stay quiet. Because there isn't really a perfect answer.

Mandy stares down into her glass. “I actually liked him, you know? I really thought something was starting to form,” she openly shares then laughs to herself.

You rest put a hand on her knee and pat lightly. “I'm sorry.”

Without warning, she looks at you and says, “Which leads me to ask you something.”

“Yeah? What is it?”

Mandy lifts her glass close to the side of her mouth as she lowly asks, “Would it be alright if I talked to Walter?”

For a second, your brain genuinely stalls because that was not where you expected the conversation to go. Not even remotely.

You stare at her for another beat. Then a smile slowly appears. “Yeah, I’m fine with that.”

“But it’s not like if I talked to him, I wanted to be with him.” she quickly assures you.

“No, I know,” you tell her with a smile.

“I figured it was the respectful thing to do.”

“And I appreciate it,” you say with a smile.

Mandy doesn’t waste time to do her mission. About an hour later after your shared conversation. You notice Mandy walking toward Walter.

Walter is sitting on one of the outdoor sofas near the pool, chatting with Joey.

He looks up when Mandy approaches. He straightens almost immediately, looking like he wasn't expecting her. She gestures toward one of the empty seats beside him and Walter nods.

Mandy sits and Walter turns his body toward her. The conversation begins and from where you're sitting, you can't hear a single word. Only expressions. Body language.

Walter nodding while listening. Mandy talking animatedly with her hands. Walter saying something that makes her throw her head back in laughter. A moment later, he laughs too.

You wait for jealousy to arrive. For that uncomfortable knot in your stomach. For the instinct to look away. Surprisingly, you feel nothing.

If anything, watching Walter with Mandy confirms something you've been quietly wondering since yesterday. You’ve been keeping an open mind and assuring yourself that maybe it was because you and him were only together for two days. You can see it now that you and Walter are barely connecting.

Then again, it's still too early to know for sure. Maybe it grows into something. Maybe it doesn't. Maybe there isn't a romantic connection at all. You simply don’t know yet and perhaps that's okay.

-

YOU: It's pretty obvious Mandy thinks Walter's attractive [softly laughs] I mean... he is.He’s so hot. It's definitely a weird situation. But I don’t know [laughs] I honestly don’t know what’s going to happen [cluelessly smiles]

-

The villa slowly finds its rhythm again. The sting of the recoupling hasn't disappeared. It's simply... shifted. Conversations begin popping up in every corner of the garden. You remain on the daybed with Kat and Chastity, just casually chatting and enjoying the rest of their drink.

At one point, Chastity points toward the entrance of the villa. “They’re back.”

It’s Patrick and Monique strolling back into the villa. Hand in hand. Both smiling. Their date clearly went well.

A chorus of cheers greets them. Patrick heads straight toward the boys gathered around the seating area, immediately getting pulled into a barrage of questions. Meanwhile, Monique scans the garden and then land on where you, Kat and Chasity at. She walks over with a bright smile and the three of you shift to make room for her on the daybed.

“So, how was the date?” Kat asks immediately.

“It was romantic,” she says as she places a hand over her chest. “Food. Candles. Flowers.”

“Sound lovely,” Kat comments.

Monique tucks a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “And we kissed.”

The three of you make a similar low gasp at that. Your eyebrows lift ever so slightly, imagining how would Mandy react to this. You instinctively glance across the garden and yep, Mandy is still talking with Walter. And you’re glad that Mandy is for sure now has completed her grieving process.

Kat and Chastity continue asking Monique more questions about the date.  Monique answers every question with growing enthusiasm. Then, after a few minutes, her smile softens.

“I should probably and have a chat with Mandy first,” she says.

The daybed grows briefly quiet. Chastity's mouth twists into a tiny expression that says, Oh dear.

You notice it immediately, but before anyone says anything, Monique stands. She smooths down her dress before walking toward the pool, toward Mandy.

Across the villa, the cameras are already following Monique. Because everyone knows whatever happens next isn't going to stay private for very long.

-

The villa slowly begins winding down and you honestly... can’t wait to put an end to this eventful day. Simply because your social battery has officially clocked out.

The vanity lights cast a warm glow over the mirrors as you stand in front of the bathroom sink, already dressed comfortably for bed. You’re slowly untangling the ends of your hair before combing it down with a hairbrush. For the first time all day, you’re by yourself and it's quiet and peaceful.

Then, someone walks in and you turn your head toward the doorway to find Walter there.

When he sees you, he smiles almost immediately. “Hey.”

A sleepy smile spreads across your face. “Hey.”

He wanders over to the freestanding bathtub before sitting on its edge. Neither of you says anything for a passing moment. You turn around completely, resting your hips against the sink with your hairbrush still in one hand.

Walter rubs his trimmed beard absentmindedly. He opens his mouth, but then closes it again. His eyes drift over what you're wearing — dark cotton shorts with a simple white tank top.

“You look cute,” he says with a faint grin.

You laugh softly. “Thank you.”

Deep down, you know he’s here to have a talk with you. You'd been half-expecting this conversation ever since Mandy pulled him for that chat. Hence why he’s hesitating a lot.

You continue brushing the end of your hair. Then casually ask, “So, what’s up?”

Walter takes a quiet breath. Then scratches lightly at his forearm. “I just... I wanted to know where your head's at.”

Yep. There it is. You nod slowly. “I've actually been thinking about that too.”

He looks surprised to hear it. “Yeah?”

You fiddle absentmindedly with the handle of your hairbrush. “I don't know. I kind of feel like... you and I are barely connecting,” you share, adding a light shrug at the end of the sentence.

Walter nods almost immediately. “Yeah. But at the same time, I feel like we haven’t really had the chance.”

You nod. “Yes.”

Neither of you looks uncomfortable saying it. If anything, it feels relieving.

Walter nods thoughtfully and then looks directly at you as he starts speaking again. “So, I was thinking... what if we just go with the flow?”

The words hang comfortably between you. It doesn't sound like he's trying to convince you. It sounds more like he's asking whether the two of you can agree on it together.

You slowly nod. “Yeah. I think that's probably the best thing to do.”

Walter’s expression brightens. Almost hopeful. “But if things do start developing,” he quickly adds while gesturing lightly between the two of you. “Then we'll follow that.”

You nod again, agreeing to it.

“If they don't...” Walter trails off and then he shrugs. “…you're completely free to explore other people. I don't want either of us forcing something.”

“I'm cool with that,” you say with a smile. “I don't want us feeling guilty every time we talk to someone else.”

Walter smiles with an eyebrow raised rather playfully. “So, we’re officially going with the flow.”

You laugh at that. “I guess we are.”

The conversation settles in mutual understanding and an agreement. You couldn’t be happier than knowing things are handled rather maturely.

Walter stands from the edge of the bathtub. He opens both arms as he walks up to you and hesitantly asks, “Can I have a hug?”

You snort because for a second, he looks like a child asking for candies. “Of course,” you say, putting down the hairbrush.

Without thinking twice, you step forward and into his arms. The hug is warm and easy. Nothing dramatic about it. He rubs his hand on your back as he mutters, “That was a good chat.”

You smile as you mutter back into his shoulder. “It really was.”

When he eventually lets go, his hands remain lightly resting against your upper arms.

Then one hand slides gently to the side of your head, his thumb briefly brushing a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

He smiles and gives one small nod. “I'll see you later.”

“See you later,” you easily reply.

Walter turns, walks out of the bathroom and disappears back into the hallway. Then catch your own reflection in the mirror again. And surprisingly, you feel lighter than you did five minutes ago.

-

YOU: I think we both needed it. There wasn't any awkwardness. [thoughtfully nods] We basically agreed to… 'Let's just see what happens.' And I actually really like that. Because now I feel like I can just enjoy being here, get to know people. There’s no pressure. [smiles]

-

By the time you finish your skincare and make your way into the bedroom, the villa has fallen into its familiar nighttime routine. You let out a content sigh as you climb into bed, fluffing the pillow and settling yourself under the duvet.

A minute or two later, Walter comes to the bed. He sets the tumbler on the bedside table before stretching his shoulders. Then his eyes drift toward your bedside table.

He points casually and says, “I think I just saw a spider.”

You narrow your eyes immediately. Then grab the throw pillow on the floor and lightly smack his side with it.

“Still not funny!”

In retaliation, Walter simply throws himself backwards onto the mattress, sending the entire bed bounces beneath the impact. You let out an undignified squeak as you're lifted a few centimeters into the air. “Walter, stop!”

He laughs while staying faceplanted on the bed. The sea breeze has clearly won its battle with his hair as several strands stick up at impossible angles. Without really thinking, you reach over. Your fingers lightly comb through his hair, smoothing down one stubborn piece before another immediately springs back up.

“It's hopeless,” you say with a soft laugh.

“So I've been told,” he mumbles. His voice muffled by the bed.

He doesn't move away and just lets you fuss with it for another moment.

You continue playing with Walter’s hair while watching people in and out of their beds, chatting with their partner and then, you spot Monique walks toward Patrick and Mandy’s bed. Or rather... Patrick and what used to be Mandy's bed. Which means Patrick and Monique are now sharing it.

Mandy, meanwhile, has already made herself comfortable in one of the spare single beds tucked into the corner of the room. She lies under the duvet alone, facing the wall as she adjusts her pillow.

The room becomes noticeably quieter when Patrick walks into the bedroom, but he’s not walking toward his shared bed with his new partner. Instead, he walks toward Mandy’s.

Only then Walter shifts, lifting himself to rest his head on the pillow and notices what’s happening in the room.

Patrick lifts his hand at Mandy for a small wave. “Hey.”

Mandy is drinking her water from her tumbler to answer verbally. So she smiles and waves back in answer.

Patrick stops at the end of her bed. “Can we a chat?”

Mandy is quiet for a beat. Then she offers him a polite, tired smile. “Can we do it tomorrow?”

There's no bite in her voice. She simply sounds exhausted. Like she can’t deal with anything at this moment.

Patrick nods immediately. “Yeah. Okay,” he says in understanding.

He scratches the back of his head and then takes a step back. “Goodnight.”

“Night,” Mandy plainly replies.

With that, Patricks simply returning to the bed now shared with Monique.

The room gradually settles once more and then all at once, the lights are out. Tonight, neither you nor Walter reaches for a cuddle. Somehow, after everything that's happened, it doesn't feel necessary. Comfortable silence is enough.

Instead, you shift slightly on the bed to find that comfortable position to sleep and you hear Walter shift beside you as well. In the dark, you notice him turning onto his side facing you.

He props his head up on one hand. Then lets out a long, dramatic sigh. “I want today to be over already,” he whispers.

A quiet laugh escapes you. “Yeah.

“The longest week of my life,” he whispers again.

You giggle. “It's only been two days.”

“Oh, damn.”

You shake your head, smiling into the darkness.

Eventually, the villa finally grows still and for the first time all day, no one has anything left to say.

-

The next morning, the bedroom lights blaze to life all at once and a chorus of groans immediately fills the room.

You dramatically pull your duvet over your head, shielding you from the harsh bright light. You take a deep breath before slowly blinking your eyes open. With a sleepy sigh, you push yourself upright until your back rests against the headboard. You decide to have a sip of water while your brain catches up with the fact that another day has started.

Around the room, the beds begin creaking. Mike stretches so dramatically that Chastity laughs at him. Patrick sleepily rubs both hands over his face. Monique is still curled beneath the duvet, looking as though she's contemplating ignoring the lights altogether. Mandy is already sitting up in her single bed, securing the messy bun with a hair claw.

Beside you, Walter lets out a low groan and throws one forearm over his eyes. He yawns so widely that it makes you yawn too.

“Morning,” he says, his voice sounds deeper in the morning.

You swallow your water and greet back. “Morning.”

He grins before finally dragging himself upright to sit beside you against the headboard.

For a while, the two of you simply sit there in comfortable silence, still gathering enough energy to become functioning human beings.

Walter tilts his head slightly. “I think it's sunny outside.”

You doubt that, but hope that he’s right. “You think so?”

“I can hear the birds. Chirping,” he says.

As if on cue, a chorus of cheerful chirping drifts in through the open windows.

You pause. Then laugh. “You're right.”

“I know my birds,” Walter says with a sleepy grin.

The moment you step through the sliding doors, warm sunshine immediately kisses your skin. And it feels good to finally see a bright, blue sky after the dark, cloudy for the past few days.

The entire garden looks different. The pool sparkles brilliantly under the sunny sky. The palm trees sway lazily in the gentle sea breeze. The ocean beyond the villa glitters like scattered glass.

“It’s a beautiful day,” you quietly murmur to yourself.

The others Islanders are spilling out of the main villa. The guys are heading to the open gym, working out. A couple girls are still inside to do their morning skincare routine first. You notice that Mandy has wrapped her yoga session early and is now refilling her tumbler with water in the open kitchen.

Walter steps out behind you with sunglasses on. He stretches his arms over his head before wandering toward one of the daybeds beside the pool. Then drops onto the cushions with a satisfied sigh.

The energy feels fresh. Like yesterday's tension has been left behind with the rain.

You slip your sandals off near the edge of the decking and the warm sand welcomes your bare feet. You begin walking toward the beach, planning to start the day with a swim.

The sound of waves grows louder with every step. A handful of seabirds skim low across the shoreline. The ocean stretches endlessly before you. Calm and clear. Inviting.

There couldn't be a better way to start the day. Taking one last deep breath of the salty morning air, you jog the final few steps toward the water before diving cleanly into the sea and the cool waves embrace you instantly. You swim farther than you intended, floating on your back for a while as you watch wisps of white cloud drift lazily across the endless blue sky.

Out here, the villa feels miles away. Just the steady rhythm of the tide carrying you gently up and down. Eventually, you paddle back toward shore, water streaming from your hair as you climb onto the sand.

The walk back to the villa is slow, your skin still cool from the sea while the morning sun gradually warms it again. You step onto the wooden decking, absently squeezing seawater from the ends of your hair.

As your eyes drift toward the pool, you notice Walter exactly where you left him. Except, he's no longer alone because Mandy has joined him. The two sit angled toward each other, drinks resting on the small table between them.

You pause for only a second, quietly taking in the sight before continuing toward the villa.

Yesterday, the three of you agreed to keep your options open. This, you suppose, is exactly what that looks like.

-

Music drifts softly from the outdoor speakers, mixing with the sound of waves crashing somewhere beyond the villa walls.

You had your breakfast and already changed into a pale blue bikini with a loose white linen shirt thrown over the top, finding yourself perched on the edge of the infinity pool. Your feet sway lazily under the water.

Beside you, Bianca mirrors your posture, one hand resting behind her for support. On your other side, Chastity absentmindedly splashes the water with her toes. While Mike and Patrick are leisurely swimming, showcasing their prowess on the backstroke swimming. When Mike emerges from the water, he puts heart-shaped sunglass on that he borrowed from Mandy before taking a sip of water. Looking goofy but adorable at the same time.

“This is how this should be,” chastity says as she adjust her sunglasses. “Hot and sunny.”

Bianca throws her flowing blonde hair to the back of her shoulder. “But I like it when it rains.”

Chastity pulls down her glasses just enough to glare at Bianca. “No, girl. I know you didn’t mean that.”

Bianca laughs and you snort into your glass of iced coffee. Then— DING!

The unmistakable text tone slices through the laughter. Every conversation stops. Every head turns.

Bianca picks up the phone resting on the edge of the sun lounger. “I've got a text!”

Immediately, the villa erupts. Within seconds, everyone begins making their way toward the pool.

Bianca clears her throat before reading the text aloud for everyone.

Islanders, let’s find out who came with the most baggage as your dirty little secrets will be revealed in today’s game. #excessbaggage #anythingtodeclare #kissandtell

For half a second, silence and then—

“YES!” Mike throws both fists into the air. “Our first game!”

“I've been waiting for this,” Kat softly says even when she’s excited.

“Oh, I love dirty little secrets,” Mancy chirps.

The mood instantly shifts because yesterday had been about uncertainty. Today promises fun and if everyone has learned anything after just three days together, it's that no Love Island game is ever just a game.

With that, the entire group jogs toward the shoreline together, laughing as Mike pretends he's leading an Olympic sprint while Patrick dramatically claims he's already out of breath.

The beach opens up ahead. A game arena has been set up overnight. Bright pink and turquoise flags flutter in the sea breeze. A long wooden platform sits in the middle of the sand, complete with a giant spinning carousel divided into sections, each marked with an Islander's name.

Towering above it is a gleaming metal chute. Beside the carousel sits a stack of colourful suitcases. Some blue. Some pink. All identical except for the luggage tags tied to their handles.

-

NARRATOR: The boys and the girls are going head-to-head in a game called Excess Baggage. We have ten suitcases, each containing a saucy secret about one of our Islanders. One at a time, the suitcases will come down a chute onto a baggage carousel, landing in section assigned to one of our Islanders. And the best part is… there really isn’t a prize for winning. It’s just a reality TV mechanism to designed to reveal the Islanders’ deepest and dirtiest secrets. Whoever opens the suitcase must try to match the secret to its rightful owner. Then, they get to identify the person they think the secret belongs to with a kiss. And for each right guess, they earn a point.

-

The Islanders have been separated into two lines. The boys line up along one side of the platform, standing shoulder to shoulder. Across from them, the girls form their own line.

Everyone watches the towering chute expectantly as the game is about to start. Then a bright blue suitcase suddenly shoots down the metal track.

It rattles loudly before dropping neatly onto the spinning carousel, round and round it goes and the carousel gradually slows. The girls lean in to see the suitcase lands on section with Bianca’s name on it.

She smiles as she steps forward, easily lifting the suitcase onto the nearby table. The metal clasps pop open and inside, on top of the stacks of folded clothes are a leather wallet and a sealed envelope. She picks up the envelope and slides the message out of it.

Everyone grows quiet as she reads what’s written on it. “'Which Islander has never spent more than sixty dollars on a date?'”

A chorus of exaggerated gasps erupts.

“No way.”

“Sixty?”

“That's rough.”

Your eyes immediately drift toward the boys and see how every single one of them is trying very hard to look innocent. Some are more convincing than others. And the rest… not so much.

Bianca takes a second to think before walking toward the line of boys. She studies them one by one. But she hovers around the three boys on the left. Joey, Cam and Patrick.

Bianca finally stops and leans in a gives Patrick a kiss. The kiss is so brief that in the next second, she’s already walking back to the suitcase. Patrick only grins in reaction but looking almost too relaxed as someone accused of being cheap.

Bianca unties the little luggage tag hanging from the suitcase handle, pulls open the sticker that covers the name at once. Then her eyes grow noticeably wider as she reveals the name.

“It’s Joey.”

The entire beach explodes because no one is expecting that. Especially Bianca who’s his current partner.

Joey lifts both hands in defeat and tries to keep it cool. “Love is not about money, okay?” he proudly defends himself.

That only makes everyone laugh even harder.

Mike clutches his stomach as he tells Joey, “Mate, you've been exposed for being cheap on international television.”

Joey nods in embarrassment. Then places a hand over his heart. “I promise that my personality is worth at least another forty dollars.”

The laughter from Joey's revelation is still echoing across the beach when the carousel begins moving again. Another bright blue suitcase appears at the top of the chute and it rattles loudly as gravity takes over. The suitcase shoots down the metal track before dropping neatly onto the spinning carousel and lands on Kat’s section.

Without wasting another second, Kat strolls confidently toward the table, lifting the suitcase with both hands. She pops open the silver clasps and this time, she finds a miniature toy aeroplane alongside another envelope.

“’Which Islander flew across the country to impress a girl?’”

A chorus of loud reactions follows.

You doubt if that’s even considered as a dirty secret. “That's commitment,” you mutter almost absentmindedly.

“That's either romantic,” Chastity comments with her folded arms in front of her. “Or concerning.”

A smile has already appeared on Kat’s small face. She seems to already have an answer in mind as she walks confidently toward the line of boys. She doesn’t spare the other boys a glance and keeps going until she stops directly in front of Mike.

Kat reaches up, gently cupping both sides of his jaw. Then leans in. The kiss is proper this time, soft and lasts long enough for the rest of the Islanders to let out a chorus of exaggerated,

“Ooooooooh!”

Kat pulls away wearing the tiniest smile of satisfaction while Mike lets out an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his neck, flustered either from the kiss or that his secret has just revealed. Or both.

Kat turns and walks back toward the suitcase. She rips the sticker that covers the name in one smooth pull. Then breaks into a grin.

“Mike!”

The beach erupts as Mike shlyly smiles and nods in defeat.

Chastity brightens almost immediately. “Oh yeah. Go, Mike!” she says, hyping his man like she didn’t mention how concerning Mike’s secret was.

“Were you in love?” Bianca curiously asks.

Mike laughs. “I thought I was.”

The Islanders erupt into a mixture of laughter and sympathetic groans. And already, the villa is discovering that everyone has at least one story they're glad they don't have to explain twice.

Almost on cue, another bright blue suitcase shoots down the chute and this time, it lands on Monique’s name. She collects the suitcase, walks up to the table and flicks open the silver clasps. Inside, is a shoe and she lifts it up with a confused look.

Monique places the shoe back into the suitcase before opening the envelope. “’Which Islander threw up in his shoe?’”

The beach erupts into a collective chorus of horrified groans.

“Ew!” Bianca shortly mutters with a repulsed look on her face.

Patrick laughs so hard he has to bend over. Either he’s giving away himself too easily or trying to deceive Monique.

Monique looks between the line of boys for approximately half a second. Then she struts her way toward the boys. You kind of guess that she’s going for Patrick.

And as expected, Monique walks straight toward Patrick. She cups his cheek lightly before leaning in. Red painted nails wrapped delicately on his jaw.  Their kiss is noticeably longer than the challenge probably requires. Or more like, making out in front of everyone.

Everyone else knows right away that Monique is simply wanting to kiss her man. Not doing it for the game’s sake. When she finally pulls away, Patrick is still grinning to himself. Actually, he's beaming.

Mike immediately notices and nudges his shoulder annoyingly. “Oh. Look at his face!”

Joey puts his arm around Patrick’s shoulders. “You enjoyed that too much, huh?”

Monique strolls back toward the table, looking entirely too pleased with herself. She pins her hair down on her shoulder with one hand as the other is busy revealing the name of the tag.

“It’s Cam!”

Every head turns toward Cam and he lightly shrugs. “I was eighteen, you guys.”

Before anyone can question him further, the carousel begins spinning once more and another suitcase starts its slow climb down the chute. Then it lands on Mandy’s section.

Mandy smiles as she steps away from the group and walks to get the suitcase. She turns it over once on the table and then flips open the clasps. Nestled inside the suitcase is a fake big diamond ring that fits Mandy’s arm instead of her finger. She sets it aside and reaching for the envelope. Then reads aloud.

“’Which Islander asked a girl to marry them after only knowing them for a few weeks?’”

For a split second, no one reacting and then it turns into absolute chaos in the next second. Even the boys are staring at one another in disbelief.

Your eyes quietly scan the boys and most of them are openly laughing, some look genuinely horrified. But one of them is trying just a little too hard to keep a straight face.

Mandy, meanwhile, doesn't appear conflicted in the slightest. She drops the envelope back into the suitcase. Then confidently walks toward the boys.

She doesn't pace in front of them, doesn’t hesitate or study their faces first. Instead, she walks straight to Patrick.

The moment she stops in front of him, Patrick's eyebrows lift and Mandy reaches up, cups his face with both hands. Then kisses him.

The Islanders let out a chorus of exaggerated cheers. “Oooooooh!”

But before anyone can react further, she pulls back only to lean in again. And she does it two more times before finally, pulling away completely. Even then, she’s giggling in satisfaction while Patrick looks still caught off guard by what just happened.

You instinctively glance sideways, finding Monique watching the whole thing with a completely flat expression. She doesn't even try to hide it.

“Cringe,” she mutters it quietly enough that only you hear.

Eventually, Mandy steps back from Patrick, still giggling as she returns toward the suitcase.

As she does, Monique leans subtly toward you and without taking her eyes off Patrick, she asks quietly, “Do you see him pulling away from her?”

The question catches you off guard. You hesitate because you don't want to fuel anything. And you definitely don't want to become the person passing judgment in the middle of someone else's situation.

You give a small shrug. “Maybe. I honestly can’t tell.”

Monique folds her arms together in front of her and then leans in to your side. “Whatever, right?”

You nod. “Right.”

Mandy reaches the table and unties the luggage tag while everyone else patiently waits in anticipation. She reads the name and bursts into laughter. “Patrick!”

A wave of shocked reactions sweeps across the beach.

“It actually was him?”

“Holy…”

Mike wheezes. “You proposed after weeks?”

Patrick hides his face behind one hand. “I was young!”

“How young?”

“Young enough to think it was a good idea.”

The boys burst into laughter again.

Mandy, still grinning from ear to ear, lifts her shoulders innocently. “The kisses were worth it.”

You can't help wincing ever so slightly but you can see how this game is clearly doing exactly what it was designed to do, dragging old feelings and awkward dynamics right into the middle of the beach.

Beside you, however, Monique barely seems bothered by Mandy's comment anymore. Instead, she's looking at Patrick with softened eyes. “I actually think that's kind of cute,” she says.

The carousel begins spinning one more time as the last blue suitcase appears at the top of the chute and it clatters as it lands on a section. Your section.

You let out a startled gasp as you step forward, lifting the suitcase from the carousel. You carry it over to the table and undo the clasps.

The lid opens and sitting in a crumple inside is a zebra-print swimsuit. You pinch it between two fingers and slowly lift it into the air as your face twists into a mixture of confusion and mild horror.

“What the hell is this?” you mutter, dropping it back into the case.

You take the envelope next and carefully pull out the card, unfold it to read what’s written on it.

“’Which Islander left a girl in his bed to go and sleep with his ex?’”

A disbelieving gasp escapes your mouth before you can stop it. And around you, the beach falls into stunned silence.

Mike physically grimaces as he mutters, “That's savage.”

Walter's eyebrows shoot upward. “Damn.”

For a long moment, you simply stare at the line of boys, trying to read them. Unlike the others before you, you don't immediately walk toward anyone. Instead, you slowly pace in front of them, watching and studying, hoping to catch some sort of cracks in their expression.

Mike looks horrified still. Joey looks amused. Walter simply meets your gaze, calm as ever. You immediately rule him out since he'd already told you he'd been single for quite a while. It doesn't fit the culprit so your attention drifts between Cam and Patrick. Both are smiling. Both are trying not to look suspicious. But Patrick’s grin... looks just crooked enough to make you second-guess yourself.

You decide to just follow your gut and step toward him. you don’t give yourself another chance to back out but gently cup his face and press a quick peck on his lips. It lasts barely a second. Then you're already turning away, hurry back toward the suitcase.

You grip the luggage tag and rip it open to reveal the name on the tag. “It’s… Cam.”

A collective groan ripples across the beach.

“Ohhhh... no.”

Kat's smile disappears almost instantly, looking genuinely disappointed to find that out.

Cam lets out a long sigh before rubbing both hands over his face. “I just... I wasn’t feeling it. I wasn’t vibing with the girl.”

He gestures vaguely and laughs awkwardly. “She was kind of… like a dead fish so I told her that I’d be back, but didn’t.”

The Islanders stare at him and Cam immediately realises that his explanation hasn't helped at all. It only makes it worse.

Mike winces and sighs as he plainly quoted. “Dead fish.”

A horrified groan escapes you before you can stop it. “Oh, God.”

Walter pinches the bridge of his nose. "That somehow got worse with every sentence.”

You leave the table and immediately finding Kat looking flabbergasted. You feel bad for her so you walk up to her, wrapping your arms around her for a quick hug.

“Oh, God. I’m so sorry,” you murmur quietly beside her ear in sympathy.

Kat doesn't hug you back right away and simply stands there, still trying to process the image that has just been painted of the man she'd started getting to know.

-

NARRATOR: At the end of that round, the girls scored a monumental two points out of five. It’s like they don’t even know these guys they just met yesterday. Let’s hope the boys do better.

-

The girls shuffle into a line on one side of the platform while the boys swap places with you.

The carousel is cleared. The blue suitcases disappear. In their place, a row of bright pink suitcases waits at the top of the chute.

A while later, the first pink suitcase is released and lands on Cam’s name. He strolls over to the carousel, lifting the suitcase onto the table. Unlike everyone before him, he doesn't even glance inside but flips the clasps open and reaches straight for the envelope.

Cam unfolds the card. Then reads aloud. “’Which Islander made friends with a girl to get with her brother?’”

Beside you, Bianca bursts into laughter. “That's actually diabolical.”

Across the platform, Mike folds his arms, looking intrigued by the revealed secret. “That's spicy.”

“It really is,” Joey agrees.

Your eyes drift down the line of girls. Bianca? Not a chance since she said it’s diabolical. Kat? Maybe. Monique? Mandy? Chastity? You honestly have no idea.

Cam folds the card shut and looks toward the girls. A slow grin appears as he starts walking.

Your stomach tightens for unknown reason even though you do realize that it’s not your secret. Who's he going to pick?

Cam passes Bianca, keeps walking pass Kat and then stops right in front of you.

"...Oh."

A few playful whistles immediately sound from the boys. You look up at Cam, but not looking him in the eyes. The blue seductive eyes.

Because he's noticeably taller than you, Cam bends ever so slightly. One hand comes up. His fingers lightly cup beneath your chin, tilting your face toward his. The gesture catches you by surprise and you barely have time to react before he closes the distance. His lips meet yours in a soft kiss.

At first, it's exactly what the challenge calls for. Brief and playful. But just as you begin to pull away, Cam's hand shifts gently to the side of your face, and he instinctively draws you that tiny bit closer. The kiss lingers for another heartbeat. Just long enough for the boys to start howling.

“I knew he'd stretch the rules,” one of the boys shouts. You don’t know who as you’re still catching up to things.

Cam finally eases back with an amused grin while you blink once before a flustered laugh escapes you. Still smiling to himself, he turns and heads back toward the suitcase. He unties the luggage tag and flips it over to reveal the name.

“Chastity.”

Chastity immediately bursts into laughter and proudly lifts both hands. “Guilty.”

The boys howl with laughter and Mike points across the platform. “Did it work?”

Chastity grins shamelessly. “No. But her brother was cute.”

The tension from the earlier secrets melts away once more as the next pink suitcase goes down the chute. And this time, Walter receives the honour to uncover the next secret,

“’Which Islander's mother found a list of all the guys she had slept with?’”

Walter chuckles as he folds the card shut. “I think...”

He slowly scans the line of girls. One by one. His gaze lingers on Monique. Then Mandy. Then settles on Bianca. He steps forward, lightly placing a hand against her cheek before giving her a quick, respectful kiss.

Walter walks back to the suitcase and flips over the luggage tag. “Bianca.”

The boys cheer as they earned their first point for guessing it right.

Binaca gets shy and laughs so hard she has to bend over slightly. “My mum still brings it up every Christmas.”

Before anyone can recover, another pink suitcase shoots down the chute. Mike claps his hands together as he got picket to do the next secret reveal.

“Come on. Give me something good,” he mutters as he flips the suitcase open. Then reaches for the envelope containing a secret.

“’Which Islander took three guys' virginities?’”

“THREE?” Joey looks genuinely surprised. “Oh, that's iconic.”

Mike looks down the line of girls with exaggerated seriousness. He stops in front of you for a second before going for Mandy. He gently cups her shoulder before leaning in for a kiss.

When he pulls away, Mandy's cheeks have noticeably pinkened. A shy smile tugs at the corner of her lips. For just a fleeting second, she almost looks as though she's wondering whether Mike chose her for more than the game.

Mike, meanwhile, is already jogging back toward the suitcase. “Let's see...”

He flips over the tag and triumphantly laughs as he shows it to everyone. The tag indeed says, MANDY.

The carousel begins spinning once more and another pink suitcase races down the chute.

Patrick takes the task seriously. He lifts it onto the table and inside is a miniature football. He picks it up to recklessly throws it at the boys.

“’Which Islander spent a night at a famous football star's house?’”

“Who knows footballers?” Mike asks he looks at the girls.

You carefully keep your expression neutral because inside, you already know.

Patrick looks thoughtfully across the line of girls. He studies Bianca but then eventually stops in front of Kat. He gives Kat a quick kiss before heading back to the suitcase.

He unties the tag and turns it over only to see your name on it.

Every head turns toward you and you feel like you’re being cornered.

“Okay, you need to tell us which football star?” Joey asks in utter seriousness.

You grin and shake your head. “I can't tell you.”

“Oh, come on!” Mike shouts in disappointment.

“I signed an NDA, you guys,” you share while laughing. “But nothing happened. I swear. I knew him from a friend and I only talked to him for like… ten minutes. Then stayed in his guesthouse.”

Bianca looks at you with a pout and envious. “I don’t know anything about football. But I’m jealous of you.”

You gently grip her arm and pull her to your side, pressing your head to her shoulder as you laugh.

The game eventually comes to an end and everyone begins walking back toward the villa together, your footprints trailing behind you in the damp sand as the ocean sparkles beside you.

-

NARRATOR: The girls and the boys each only got two points. So they equally win, or lost —depending on your perspective.

-

Back in the villa, the girls are gathered on the daybed near the pool. Meanwhile the boys are somehow working out again in the outdoor gym across the pool.

You sit on the edge of the bed, snacking on an apple when the conversation naturally drifts back toward the game earlier.

“I genuinely wasn't expecting Joey to be the sixty-dollar date guy,” Chastity laughs.

Bianca laughs almost instinctively. “All along, I’ve been saying I don’t like a guy who’s frugal.”

The girls laugh while Monique shakes her head as she says, “And Patrick proposing after only a few weeks...” She looks over toward him, where he's chatting with Mike. “I always thought that he’s that type who jump the gun.”

Your attention shifts when Mandy turns toward Kat. “What about you? Which secret surprised you the most?”

Kat is too busy chewing on a grape to talk. Once she swallowed it, only then she answers. “The one where he left a girl in bed to sleep with his ex.”

“How are you feeling about that?” Monique asks, slightly concerned.

The playful atmosphere softens almost instantly. Kat looks down at the cushion in her lap. Her fingers absentmindedly smooth the fabric. “It messed me up. Obviously.”

Everyone stays quiet.

Kat gives a small, almost embarrassed smile. “I was once in that situation. But I was the girl who got left for his ex.”

Your heart sinks hearing it. “Aww, no…”

Nobody says anything for a moment. The only sound is the faint sound of waves lapping the shore.

“I'm sorry,” Bianca says softly.

Kat puts on a thin smile. “I hope that it happened years ago or something…”

You instinctively reach over, rubbing slow circles across the middle of her back. “I think you should talk to Cam about it.”

Kat nods almost immediately. “Oh, I will,” she says, briefly glancing toward the boys. “I'm definitely going to bring it up.”

You let your hand lingers on her back, quietly hoping that things are going well for her because she’s such a kind and sweet person. And that Cam has no intention on harming her.

You lean in close and whisper, “I’d break his legs for you, you know that?”

Kat bursts into laughter at that, but hidden underneath it… some secrets carried a little more weight than others. And everyone in the villa was beginning to realise that the past had a funny way of showing up when you least expected it.

-

By the time the sun disappears beyond the horizon, the villa has transformed once again.

The soft golden light gives way to warm amber lamps tucked between palm trees. The pool glows turquoise beneath the night sky. Music hums softly through hidden speakers.

The air is cooler now, carrying the scent of salt from the ocean beyond the garden walls. You finish the final swipe of blush across your cheeks before leaning back from the mirror. Your outfit tonight is simple but pretty—a fitted top paired with a flowing skirt that moves with every step.

You smooth your hands over the fabric one last time.

“Ready?” Bianca asks as she gives her hair a light ruffle.

“Yep,” you answer as you’re spritzing some perfume on you,

The two of you head out and almost everyone has already found somewhere to settle.

The boys have naturally split into smaller groups. Patrick, Joey and Walter are gathered around the outdoor kitchen. Kat and Cam share the hammock together, talking quietly. And hopefully, they're having that conversation. Monique lounges nearby with a drink in hand, chatting casually with Bianca after she wanders over.

Your eyes continue wandering across the villa and eventually land on Mandy. She’s perched comfortably on one of the sun loungers. Not with Patrick or Walter. But with Mike. The two of them are shoulder to shoulder, drinks in hands as they laugh about something neither of you can hear.

“Well, that didn't take long,” a familiar voice chuckles beside you.

Chastity. She's carrying two glasses of wine. She hands one to you before lowering herself onto the oversized daybed. You gladly join her, stretching your legs in front of you.

Without looking away from Mandy and Mike, Chastity leans closer, lowering her voice dramatically. “I think Mandy's officially on a mission.”

You follow her gaze and watch as Mandy reaches over to lightly shove Mike's shoulder after he says something that makes her laugh again.

You smile into your drink. “I mean… she's single.”

“It was Patrick. Then Walter. And now… she’s going for my man,” Chastity says with a low sigh.

You watch Mike and Mandy continue talking. Mike is naturally charming, easy-going and funny. The sort of person who can make conversation with absolutely anyone. And Mandy seems relaxed beside him. Far more relaxed than she'd looked twenty-four hours ago.

You take another sip from your drink. “But if I were single in here, I'd probably be doing the same thing.”

“You'd be grafting?”

“I'd at least be talking to everyone.”

Chastity gasps dramatically. “You? The chill queen?”

You laugh at the nickname. “Is that what everyone calls me?”

She nods. “Yeah.”

You snort but nodding in approval. “I like that.”

The two of you sit there for another moment, quietly watching the villa carry on around you.

Across the pool, Mandy laughs again at something Mike whispers to her. You exchange one last amused look with Chastity and share a personal opinion. “But like… it could be her strategy, you know?”

Chastity swallows her drink before turning toward you. “What?”

You subtly gesture toward Mandy. “You know, making herself available to everyone and at the same time, she’s making options for herself.”

Chastity gives you a side glance. “Operation Find-A-Man, you mean?”

You snort into your drink. “No, I think she's just taking Love Island very literally.”

You both breaks into laughter at that as the villa settles into another warm evening, conversations overlapping beneath the stars.

Only a few days in and already, everyone is moving, testing connections.

Tonight, though, you decide not to overthink any of it. Instead, you simply sit back beside Chastity, enjoying the warm night, the music drifting through the villa, and the strange comfort of knowing that tomorrow would almost certainly bring another surprise.

-

Someone—no one is quite sure who—suggests another drink. Someone else suggests music.

Within minutes, the villa has drifted into one big group again in the seating area. Walter stretches across one end of the couch and Mandy practically claims the seat beside him before anyone else can. Mike is leaning against one of the wooden pillars with a drink in hand while Chastity keeps finding excuses to wander over and talk to him. Patrick and Monique share one side of the seating area. Kat sits beside you, curled into the corner with her legs tucked under her.

Joey appears from the kitchen holding a pineapple above his head like a trophy. “Guys, want to play spin the pineapple?”

Patrick lets out a soundless laugh. “You couldn't find a bottle?”

“But this is Fiji,” Joey simply replies as he places the pineapple in the middle of the wooden table.

Somehow, everyone agrees on a game of spin the bottle but instead of a bottle… we’re using a pineapple.

Joey gives it a dramatic spin and it whirls across the tabletop. The leafy crown wobbles back and forth before gradually slowing and points at Kat.

“Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

He barely thinks before asking, “Have you ever made out with strangers?”

Kat hides her face for a second before laughing herself. “Oh my God.”

Next to her, Cam looks at Kat in anticipation.

Kat inhales deeply. Then talks again. “I just turned 21 that night. I was in a bar with friends, having drinks. Made eye contact with this guy across the room. He was about… 30-ish?”

Everyone nods, listening intently to the rest of the story.

Kat’s voice stays soft and light as she continues. “Flash forward, we were hooking up in the bathroom when his wife walks in looking for him and turns out… they were there to celebrate their 5-year anniversary.”

There is exactly one second of stunned silence before it breaks into an absolute chaos.

“No!” Chastity groans. “He did not!”

Kat nods furiously. “He absolutely did!”

Still laughing, Joey spins the pineapple again and this time, it points directly back at him.

Mike takes over almost immediately. “Truth or dare, mate?”

“Truth,” Joey shortly answers.

Patrick grins as he comes up with the question. “What's something you say during sex?”

Joey immediately groans. Then sighs dramatically. “I hate all of you.”

He clears his throat anyway. “Apparently, I say either ‘That’s it, darling’ or ‘Good on ya, darlin’,” he shares with his thick Australian accent somehow becomes even thicker.

There is a beat of silence. Then everyone immediately starts repeating it back to him in dramatically terrible Australian accents.

Joey points around the circle. “Those are all terrible.”

“Joey, please lose the accent next time,” Mandy groans.

“What’s the problem?” Joey says with a protesting tone.

“Because it’d sound like having sex with the crocodile Dundee.”

A moment passes with another wave laughter before Joey spins the pineapple again and it stops in front of Patrick.

“Dare,” he shortly says.

Joey's grin immediately grows. “Kiss the girl who you think has the prettiest eyes.”

An impressed chorus echoes around the group.

Patrick doesn't hesitate. He gets to his feet, walks around the table and stops in front of Kat.

She looks up in surprise but doesn’t have much change to react as he leans down and gives her a gentle kiss.

The Islanders howl.

Cam throws both hands into the air dramatically. “I'm sitting right here, man!”

Kat laughs as Patrick returns to his seat. “It was just a dare!”

“No, I mean, everyone knows I have the prettiest eyes here” Cam replies, grinning.

Joey spins again and the pineapple turns. And turns. Before the leaves settle in your direction.

“Truth,” you blurt out almost immediately.

Patrick rubs his hands together. “Tell us a funny moment during spicy times…” he emphasizes with a sizzling sound effect.

You wheeze for a second before running your hands against your thighs. “Oh, I've actually got one.”

Everyone leans in, already investing on it.

“I had a one-night stand with this guy. At one point, I told him to get some lube from the bathroom,” you pause to let out a laugh, already amused by the recalled memory. “And he came back with a bottle of nail polish remover.”

The entire villa explodes in laughter.

Mike physically bends over laughing. “How?”

“I don't know!” You say while laughing helplessly.

Even Kat has tears in her eyes. “I'm crying.”

Without missing a beat, Joey spins the pineapple again. It circles before landing on Walter.

“Truth,” he blurts out right away.

Joey smiles mischievously. “Of the girls here, who would be the one you’d sleep with?”

Walter barely pauses. He simply turns his head and points to the girl sitting next to him. Mandy.

Mandy's face immediately lights up before going all giggly and flustered. As everyone whistles and teases them, she reaches over without thinking and rests her hand lightly on Walter's thigh. He doesn't seem to mind.

And again, as you’re watching the two of them, you don't feel that uncomfortable twist in your stomach you half expected. Instead, something quietly clicks into place that maybe the connection between you and Walter really isn't growing beyond friendship. And you're okay with that.

Joey gives the pineapple one more enthusiastic spin and it finally points toward—

“Chastity!”

She immediately grins. “Dare.”

“I’ll go easy on you,” Joey says with a grin. “Go kiss whoever you want to kiss right now.”

Without so much as a second's hesitation, Chastity gets to her feet and walks straight across the decking.

Mike is still leaning casually against the wooden pillar with his drink when Chastity reaches up, hooks a hand lightly around the back of his neck and kisses him. A proper kiss that is confident and playful.

Mike smiles into it almost instantly, one arm naturally settling around her waist as he kisses her back.

The villa cheers, howls and claps in reaction. Like it’s their first time watching people making out in front of them.

When Chastity finally steps away, she's wearing the most triumphant grin imaginable. She strolls back to the sofa as though nothing happened.

The second she sits beside you, you laugh and reach over. You give her upper arm a playful squeeze. “Good job, girl. Well done!” you say in both pride and amusement.

She tries to look composed, but fails almost immediately. A huge smile spreads across her face. “I know.”

The two of you dissolve into laughter together as Joey reaches for the pineapple once more, already eager to discover whose turn would be next.

-

The night eventually winds down. Everyone heads inside as the night settles into a quieter, slower rhythm.

You change into your usual sleep clothes of white shorts and a cropped tee, brushing your hair down before finally head toward the bedroom.

The room is of course still the slightest bit of chaotic. Walter isn't there yet when you get to your shared bed. You climb on anyway, hugging a throw pillow to your chest as you settle under the duvet.

You look around and see most of the islanders are already on their beds. Mike and Chastity are already tucked to their bed with their glasses on. Patrick quietly chats with Monique as she plays with his curls. Cam and Kat lying facing each other in bed, talking softly enough that nobody else can hear. So it seems like the conversation they had went well.

A few minutes later, Walter walks in carrying his water bottle. He catches your eye and smiles. “Hey, cutie.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Cutie? That’s new.”

He slips into the bed beside you with an easy sigh. “Because you’re cute.”

You accept the compliment and cup your own face with both hands. Smiling brightly, you sweetly say, “Thank you.”

Walter chuckles at that, fixing the positioning of his pillow before settling in. And to everyone else, it looks like he’s flirting. Maybe he is, but it’s a tame one. One that you do to a friend. Or people you have platonic relationship with.

And that’s okay. If anything, you’re glad that you’re not forcing it, or pretend that something is there when it isn’t.

You glance around the room again and notice all these couples feeling comfortable with each other to have share quiet laughter and sleepy smiles with. You don’t envy them because you wish someone was holding you, or you suddenly wanted cuddles.

But you crave a connection. Which is the one thing you came here for. And knowing that you’re not connecting with anyone here feels like a bummer.

You quietly glance sideways and finds Walter is already lying on his back, staring at the ceiling. And the fact that he subtly hinted that he’s interested in Mandy only confirms that his head is already turned, his attention has shifted to that person.

And to you, it simply confirms what you've both already acknowledged. The spark never really appeared.

There are no hard feelings whatsoever and you actually respect his openness and honesty.

And now, you’re just two people sharing a bed while quietly figuring out that maybe they were meant to be friends instead.

Eventually, the bedroom lights switch off and darkness washes over the villa.

The usual chorus begins. Someone whispers goodnight. Someone else giggles. The duvet rustles as everyone settles into their favourite sleeping positions.

You close your eyes and as sleep slowly begins pulling at you, one tiny thought slips quietly through your mind.

Maybe tomorrow. Tomorrow things change for you.

-

YOU: [clasps hands together] Love Island, I’m begging you. Please, bring in some hot boys. I am respectfully requesting— No. I am pleading. [laughs] Please get me a man. I'm ready. Send him in.

-

The lights. Again. They're impossibly bright.

You let out a sleepy groan, burying your face into your pillow for one last, desperate attempt at pretending morning hasn't arrived. No such luck.

Around the bedroom, similar protests rise from every direction.

You slowly peel one eye open before finally surrendering. With a quiet sigh, you sit up against the headboard, rubbing the sleep from your eyes. Your hair is an absolute mess. Your cheeks still carry faint pillow creases.

Outside, the familiar chorus of birdsong drifts through the cracks in the windows. A smile slowly tugs at your lips because at least, you’re waking up to another sunny morning. At least the weather never disappoints.

Beside you, Walter is already awake. Unlike everyone else, he somehow looks completely functional. “Morning,” he greets as he stretches both arms over his head before swinging his legs over the edge of the bed.

“Morning,” you mumble back. “You are way too cheerful.”

“I've accepted my fate.”

“Well, I haven't.”

Walter laughs quietly before grabbing his water bottle and walks toward the bedroom door while everyone else remains in various stages of pretending to be asleep.

His hand reaches the handle, slides the door open and then immediately freezes. Without a word, he slowly steps back inside and slides the door close again.

The room falls strangely quiet as Walter turns around. His expression is somewhere between confused and amused.

“Guys, there are…” he pauses for dramatic effect. “...two new boys outside.”

There’s a second of silence and then—

“WHAT?”

You are already moving before your brain has fully caught up. You practically leap to your feet. Your robe barely makes it onto your shoulders before you're hurrying across the room.

Walter laughs as you gently push past him. You peek over his shoulder through the narrow opening as he cracks the door again.

The bright morning sunlight pours across the deck outside and there, by the pool... Two unfamiliar men. Both wearing swim shorts. Both impossibly relaxed. One is sitting casually on the edge of the pool with his feet in the water. The other is already waist-deep, leaning comfortably against the side.

As if sensing your presence, both of them look toward the villa. One raises a hand. The other flashes an easy smile before waving.

Your eyebrows immediately shoot upward. “Oh!!?”

Someone squeezes in beside you. And then another. You turn your head to find Mandy and Bianca on each side of you. The three of you stand shoulder to shoulder in the doorway, shamelessly peeking outside.

“They’re actually… really fit,” Mandy whispers, excitement laced her tone.

A moment later, the three of you instinctively step aside from the doorway and freak out almost at the same time.

“Oh my God!!!”

-

YOU: It feels like Christmas, y’all [shrieks] [laughs] there are two new boys and they’re so hot! [enthusiastically claps]

-

The villa erupts into life. Sleep is forgotten almost instantly. The boys file out first and laughing amongst themselves, while the girls trail after them in various states of trying to look presentable.

You duck back into the bedroom for all of three seconds. You run your fingers through your tangled hair, attempting to flatten the stubborn pieces sticking up from sleep. You smooth the front of your white shorts and then tug down the hem of your grey cropped T-shirt.

And ff course you get the urge to make a run to the dressing room and put on a makeup. Scared that they’d be disappointed that you don’t look cute. But you hope that even if you show up like this, they appreciate how you look with a bareface and comfortable clothes.

You square your shoulders, put on a smile and walk outside. And get greeted by the warm sun that instantly kisses your skin.

The two bombshells are already chatting comfortably with the Islanders. Mike is exchanging a handshake with them. Joey has somehow already convinced everyone that he's the funniest person in the villa. Walter leans casually against the outdoor kitchen island, quietly observing the newcomers.

You make your way over and the first boy notices you almost immediately. He has neatly cropped brown hair. A well-groomed beard frames a square jaw. One entire arm disappears beneath intricate black tattoos. Broad shoulders. Solid build. Confident posture.

He smiles as he introduces himself. “Hi, I’m Trevor,” he says, his Irish accent reaches you before his hand does.

You introduce yourself, earning another easy smile from him. “It's lovely to meet you, Trevor.”

“You too.” He steps forward first, opening his arms just enough for a quick greeting hug.

You gladly return it and gosh, you’re surprised by his built body. When you step back, your eyes accidentally dip to his defined abs. Like he was born to this world with that six-pack.

Trevor doesn't seem to notice. Or if he does... He's polite enough not to mention it.

Monique takes her turn next to introduce herself to Trevor so you naturally turn to the other new guy. He’s there, standing with his half back turned and casually chatting with Mike.

You approach slowly and at first, he doesn’t notice you. Your heart gives the tiniest, completely unexpected flutter. You instinctively tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

Why am I nervous?

The man suddenly turns around and time seems to slow. His smile arrives first. Soft, almost shy. The kind of smile that instantly makes someone look approachable. Yet, the moment his eyes meet yours, you notice the confidence and the intensity that catches you completely off guard.

You find yourself staring for half a heartbeat longer than you should. Your eyes do the wandering without you intend to.

He's tall. Lean rather than bulky. Long dark hair brushes the nape of his neck, slightly tousled from the ocean breeze. His face is all elegant angles. Sharp cheekbones. Straight nose. Full lips curved into that impossibly gentle smile. Black ink trails across the left side of his torso before disappearing beneath his swim shorts. Smaller tattoos decorate his fingers. A small eyebrow piercing catches the morning sunlight. Everything about him should feel carefully put together. But at the same time, he somehow looks effortlessly himself.

And for reasons you can't quite explain, you can't stop looking. There's something about him. Something you can't quite put your finger on. Not just that he's attractive. Although... God, he is.

It's something underneath that. Something quietly magnetic. You realise a second too late that you've been standing there without saying anything.

You laugh softly at yourself and hurry, introducing yourself. “Hi, nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you,” he says, his voice is lower than you expected. Smooth.

He steps forward, opening one arm for a quick hug and you instinctively step into it. The embrace is brief. But as he leans in, you catch the scent of his perfume. Something vanilla, balanced by something bolder and sharper.  It lingers for only a second before he lets go.

When he pulls back, the same gentle smile returns. “I'm Hyunjin.”

The name settles somewhere in the back of your mind almost immediately.

It's far too early. You know it is. You've known this man for all of thirty seconds. But standing here, looking into those warm, quietly observant eyes...

You feel something you haven't felt since arriving at the villa. The unmistakable spark of curiosity. And maybe…

The beginning of attraction.

-

YOU: I like him [shyly smiles] that one guy… [giggles] Hyunjin.

-

✨ 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!

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 ✨

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