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He stared down at you, eyes blinking slowly against the bright morning sun, a lazy, lopsided smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "You're staring."

"I am," you admitted without an ounce of shame. "And your stomach just growled."

Rafe let out a soft huff, closing his eyes again as your fingers trailed down to his cheek. "Yeah, well, I'm starving."

"Come on, then," you said, nudging his shoulder as you began to wiggle out from under the duvet. "Let's go inside and make some breakfast. We're already out here anyway, and the kitchen is empty."

Rafe groaned, buried his face into the pillow for a few seconds, and then reluctantly swung his long legs over the side of the daybed. He was wearing nothing but a pair of loose sweatpants, bare chest on display, muscles flexing as he stretched his arms over his head. You tried your best not to gawk, but failing was pretty much a daily routine at this point.

As you walked over to the outdoor kitchen island, you turned to him. "You know, typically you're the one who makes me breakfast.” You started. “You do it every single morning, and you barely even have time to eat yourself because you're too busy making sure I have everything I want.” You pondered, chewing the inside of your cheek before jumping up. “Let me make you something."

Rafe paused, leaning his elbows on the counter on the other side, a genuinely amused smirk washing over his face. "Oh, really? The lady is treating me?” He teased, but you just fixed him with a semi-serious pointed look. “Alright. Let's see what you've got."

And for the next twenty minutes, the kitchen became your own little world. You moved around each other with an easy rhythm that felt all too natural. You set up the pancake batter, whisking it until it was smooth, while Rafe took over the stove to crack eggs into a sizzling pan.

"Don't burn the bacon, Cameron," you teased as you titled your head in the direction of the skillet that was cooking the strips of meat, leaning past him to grab a carton of strawberries from the fridge.

"I have never burned a single thing in this kitchen," Rafe shot back, stepping into your space and lightly bumping his hip against yours before his hand reached out, thumb catching a tiny stray drop of pancake batter off your cheek and wiping it away, fingers lingering on your skin for a second longer than necessary. "Focus on your pancakes. If they're flat, I'm never letting you live it down."

Just then, the peaceful quiet of the morning was swallowed as a parade of exhausted boys began migrating downstairs. JJ was leading the pack, his eyes half-closed, his bright blonde hair sticking out in every direction. Pope walked right behind him, rubbing his eyes, followed by Theo and Justin, who were both yawning.

JJ stopped dead in his tracks, eyes zeroing in on you and Rafe standing side-by-side over the stove, you holding a spatula and Rafe flipping eggs.

"Oh, this is a sight," JJ laughed. "Look at the married couple. What is this, year ten of domestic bliss?"

Pope chuckled, leaning against the kitchen island. "Damn, Rafe. You got the apron on ‘n everything? We see who wears the pants in the relationship."

"Fuck off," Rafe grumbled, though there was an unstoppable smirk playing on his lips as he kept his eyes on the frying pan. “She put it on me.”

“So, you don’t like it?” You faced him, a hand on your hip as Rafe turned to you, searching for the words as you fought a smile when JJ cut in.

"Seriously though," JJ laughed, skipping over to the counter and leaning over it to inspect your outfit. You were wearing a pair of character pajama pants and a fitted tank top with the same character on the front. "Cooking with your boyfriend in your lil’ jammies. Did you steal those from an eighth grader?"

Before you could even reply with a comeback, JJ lunged forward, fingers digging into your sides to tickle you. You shrieked, dropping the spatula on the counter as you wriggled away, laughing hysterically.

"JJ, stop! Stop it!" you gasped, doubling over.

In a split second, Rafe’s arm shot out, swatting JJ’s wrists away from your body, eyes narrowing, though his tone stayed playful. "Hey. Hands off.” He eyed the boy, throwing his head out in another direction. “Move it, Maybank."

JJ held his hands up in the air, backing off with a wicked grin on his face. "Whoa, okay.” He backed up, shaking his head. “My bad, man." He turned back to the rest of the boys, shouting, "No one touch the wife!"

"Why don’t you leave us alone and do what you came down here to do, hm? I’m sure Talia is starving." You laughed, teasing, picking up your spatula and giving Rafe a grateful look. Rafe just slid his hand briefly down your lower back before turning back to his cooking.

Once the food was prepared, you carried the plates over to the island, away from the rest of the boys who were now rummaging through the cupboards to prepare breakfast for the girls. 

You served each other the food you’d spent the morning making. Rafe had made your plate look like something out of a five-star brunch spot—perfectly scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and beautifully toasted bread.

You sat back, watching him closely as he picked up his fork. You’d made him a stack of fluffy pancakes with sliced strawberries piled high on top, with a side of eggs.

Rafe cut off a piece of the pancake, got a bit of strawberry on his fork, and popped it into his mouth as you watched his face nervously, bottom lip held between your teeth. For a second, nothing changed. Then his eyes went wide and stopped chewing for a brief moment, staring down at the plate like it had just spoken to him, before he quickly swallowed.

"...This is fuckin’ amazing," he said, voice flat but laced with genuine shock. He looked up at you, eyebrows knitted together. "Like... I didn't know you could cook."

You tilted your head, leaning back in your seat, crossing your arms as a playful pout hit your lips. "Wow. Okay.” You sassed. “You didn't think I could cook?"

Rafe rolled his eyes, an amused expression taking over his features as he took a bite of the eggs. "I didn't say I didn't think you could cook.” He emphasizes through his chewing. “I said I didn't know you could cook. There's a difference, angel." He pointed his fork at you. "This is really good, though. Seriously. Better than whatever Justin tried to make yesterday for the guys."

“Hey!” Justin threw his hands up, turning to face the two of you while in the middle of making his breakfast, flour on his shirt.

A warm smile bloomed across your face as you and Rafe both waved him off and you leaned across the island, pressing a soft kiss directly against his warm cheek. "Thank you."

You quickly finished your own breakfast, the chatter of the villa growing louder around you as more islanders began to wake up. 

Standing up, you gathered your empty plate. "Alright, I'm gonna go and get ready."

"Alright," Rafe murmured, his eyes tracking you as you stood up. "See you in a bit?" He asked as if there was a possibility of you leaving and never coming back.

You threw a smile over your shoulder as you left the kitchen, “Of course. It’s not like I’m really going anywhere.” You giggled lightly before turning back around.

The second your feet cleared the kitchen tiles and you went up the steps, you heard the boys swarm Rafe.

"Bro," JJ’s voice carried. "You’re locked down.” He chuckled. “Look at you, you're smiling at a pancake."

Even Theo laughed, clapping Rafe on the back. 

You bit your lip, hiding a smile as you jogged up the stairs.

THE Glam Room was already alive when you walked in. Lights framed the mirrors, bright and glowing, the girls squeezed onto the plush pink stools.

Sarah was curling her hair, Cleo was applying eyeliner, and Rima was applying her facial serums while Kaitlyn and Haja were quietly doing their skincare in their corners, Talia trying to find a missing lip gloss.

The second you shut the door, Sarah caught your eye in the mirror. "Look who it is," She raised a skeptical brow. “We were about to find out how to send an alert in here.”

You laughed, taking the empty stool between Cleo and Rima. "Oh, please. Don't you start too. I already got enough of that from JJ and Pope."

Cleo turned around on her stool, fixing you with a knowing look. "We’re just happy for you.” She smirked. “Now that Sofia is finally gone, how are you feelin’?"

The room went quiet for a second, all the girls looking at you. The air felt lighter without Sofia’s constant burning stare.

"I feel great.” You shrugged, getting up from the stool to walk towards the bathroom. “It feels like a weight’s been lifted off my chest, and I can actually breathe in here again.” You shouted from the small, adjoined space, grabbing your toothbrush. “But... I don't know, I do feel a little bit bad for her with a lot of the things that came out before she left."

Rima leaned forward, listening intently even with the distance. "Like what?" She called out over the noise of the running water.

"Like the fact that Rafe and I already knew each other before we came onto the show," you explained quietly, dragging toothpaste over the bristles. 

“Wait, what?” Sarah stopped curling her hair, staring at you. “What do you mean you knew each other?”

“You knew each other before the show?” Cleo asked, leaning forward on her stool.

“Yeah, but it wasn't a big deal or anything,” you said. “We literally met in a club I worked at, it was a…hazy night. But neither of us even remembered it until we got here. Apparently, Rafe realized it earlier though. I only came to the realization a couple days ago when Sofia brought the memory back up.”

“That’s fate,” Talia noted, holding her hands over her chest.

“Okay, I’m not gonna lie, I can kind of see why Sofia was so mad about it,” Rima chimed in, shrugging slightly.

“Oh, for sure,” Sarah agreed. “Like, I get why she was upset, but there's still no reason for her to be mad at you. That was uncalled for. If she was pissed, she should’ve been taking that anger out on Rafe, not trying to win him back and treating you like shit.”

“Exactly,” Cleo nodded. “She took it out on the wrong person.”

“I mean, I can understand the feeling of giving your absolute all to a guy, putting everything on the line, and then it just doesn't work out. And then, the worst part is having to watch that same guy turn around and do better for someone else.” You spoke through your brushing, spitting into the sink and rinsing your mouth out. “That hurts. I get it."

You grab your cleanser and brush, washing your face, walking to the archway as you leaned against it, scrubbing your face. "But at the same time... I can't sympathize with Sofia that much. I never did anything to her personally. I tried to be respectful, I tried to give her space, and she still treated me terribly from the second she got here. She made it her mission to make me feel miserable." You grumbled, turning to walk back to the sink

"Exactly," Sarah chimed in, tossing her curling iron onto the heat mat. "You have nothing to feel bad about. She brought that on herself."

"Agreed," Cleo said, nodding. "You and Rafe are real. Anyone with eyes can see it."

You smiled to yourself as you rinsed your face, drying it off before walking back to rejoin the girls in the main room, taking your place in front of your vanity once more.

Cleo smirked, shifting the focus of the room as she looked over at Sarah. "Speaking of connections... How’s it goin’ with Theo? Have you guys had any more little late-night chats?"

Sarah’s cheeks turned a soft shade of pink, a giggly smile spreading across her face. "Yeah... we actually have.” She admitted. “I really do like him. He's just so…sexy, and he's funny. He makes me laugh constantly." She paused, her smile turning a bit more contemplative as she twirled a strand of hair around her finger. "But I don't know if I can see us working outside of the villa yet.” She adds. “Our lives are just so different…but right now, I'm really enjoying getting to know him."

"He's hot, girl. Enjoy it," Talia laughed from across the room.

Rima turned her gaze toward Cleo. "What we need to talk about is what happened last night.” She starts. “Because I know for a fact I heard a little... something coming from you and Pope's bed last night. The covers were moving a whooole lot."

The room erupted into gasps and giggles as Cleo burst out laughing, hiding her face in her hands.

"Girl, what were you doing?!" you gasped, leaning forward with wide eyes.

Cleo pulled her hands away from her face, lowering her voice, a wicked grin on her lips. "Look... all I'm gonna say is... I love french fries."

You all froze for a second before the realization of her words hit you.

"Oh my god!" Sarah shrieked, throwing a makeup sponge at Cleo.

"Oh, you are so gross!" Talia laughed, covering her mouth in shock. 

"You are a naughty, naughty girl!" Rima teased, laughing hysterically.

Cleo, however, didn't seem to have an ounce of shame as she threw her head back and laughed, unbothered. "I really, really missed my man.” She defended. “I missed his face and his abs and his arms…” She fawned, pretending to fan herself. “Especially his big ass arms. I can’t wait to see how big some other things are..."

“Cleo!” Rima laughed, throwing a hand out at her. “Contain yourself!” She laughed, the room falling into another chorus of laughter. Cleo turned her head, pointing a playful finger at you. "The hideaway isn't open yet, but let me tell you right now, I am gonna to be fightin’ you and Rafe for it, tooth and nail. So you better get ready."

"Oh, that is a fight you don’t want with me," you laughed, shaking your head.

As the laughter slowly died down, the conversation shifted toward Rima and Justin, and you looked over at her, noticing the slight shadow of worry that crossed her features. "How are you feeling about everything, Rima?"

She sighed, tracing the edge of her contour palette. "I mean, I like him. Obviously. That much is clear.” She starts, speaking more to herself than you. “But... I'm just really scared about what this all actually means. Inside here, we're great. We're in this little bubble, things seem okay, and it's easy.” She starts, taking a breath. “But outside... we already tried it, and we failed."

She looked up, eyes wide and vulnerable. "I'm just worried that just because we’re rekindling things here doesn't mean it'll actually work on the outside. We already tried it and it didn't work, and nothing about our lives has changed since we broke up.” She shrugged. “I'm just terrified that the same thing that broke us apart the first time—our crazy work schedules and lack of availability—will just break us apart again the second we leave."

“That’s valid,” you nod. “But you're both different people now after this experience. You just have to take it day by day."

The room fell into a supportive hum before everyone's eyes naturally drifted to Kaitlyn. When you and Talia had returned to the villa as bombshells, Kaitlyn had obviously been happy to see you, but everyone had noticed the way her face had fallen just a tiny bit when no new boys walked through the door.

Kaitlyn caught everyone looking at her and let out a self-deprecating laugh, leaning against the counter. "Look, I’m happy that you and Talia are in the villa. Seriously.” She begins. “But... I’ll admit, I was really hoping for another male bombshell to walk in."

She looked down, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I don’t know, I just got my hopes up and they got crushed when I realized that I probably still won't be making a romantic connection in this villa.” She smiles softly, a gesture that doesn’t even attempt to reach her eyes. “It's just hard watching everyone else sometimes."

"Awww," Sarah said softly, walking over to give her a quick side hug.

"You can be honest with us," Cleo started, tilting her head. "We won't be offended at all if you say yes, but do you really have no interest in any of the other guys here?"

Kaitlyn stood her ground, shaking her head. "No.” She affirmed. “I really don't think things will work out with any of the guys here. Yeah, they're attractive, but I just don't see myself getting on with them romantically at all." She began to break it down, counting off the boys on her fingers. "Obviously, I was in a coupling with Pope, but he's made his stance with Cleo clear. And honestly, though he and I got along well as friends, I never saw us going any further than that."

She looked over at you with a small smile. "Rafe is obviously a very attractive guy, but he's just... a little too intense for me. I definitely prefer a guy who's just a little more on the laid-back, chill side. And of course, Rafe is all over you anyway, so that's a closed door."

Kaitlyn then shrugged, still moving down the list. "Theo just isn't my type at all. And I am definitely not Justin's type." She paused, throwing out a knowing, playful look at Rima and Cleo who laughed. "And honestly, Justin and I have nothing in common," Kaitlyn added. "And as for JJ... he's just too playful for me. He's like a golden retriever on Redbulls. I'm trying to find a partner, not trying to raise a man."

"We get it," Rima said gently. "That's understandable. But still, just try to enjoy the experience, okay? Don't close yourself off to having fun just because the romance isn't there yet."

Talia smiled, leaning into the conversation just as the girls all turned to her, eyebrows raised. "What about you? Have you had any more chats with JJ?"

She beamed, entire face lighting up. "Oh, yes!” She smiled, sitting up straighter. “We had a long chat last night by the pool, and it went really well. We actually have so much in common, it's crazy. Plus, I think he's just so adorable, and I honestly can't wait to see where things go with him. He makes me feel so comfortable."

"Aw, I love that for you guys!" you said, genuinely thrilled to see JJ finally settling down with someone who appreciated him and all of his quirks.

But before Talia could add another word, the conversation was abruptly cut short. From outside the glass doors of the patio, loud laughter echoed across the yard, followed by the aggressive clang of metal banging against the ground.

"What the hell is goin’ on out there?" Cleo muttered, standing up as you and the girls all migrated toward the large patio door connected to the room, sliding it open and peering over the balcony railing that overlooked the entire yard.

Down below, the guys were fooling around in the gym area. They were crowded around the bench press, laughing. JJ was currently lying flat on the bench, face bright red and straining as he tried to bench press a stack of weights that he clearly could not lift. Pope, Theo, and Rafe were standing over him, howling with laughter before they reached down to grab the barbell and help a struggling, gasping JJ out from underneath it.

"Men are literally toddlers," Sarah sighed, shaking her head, though she was smiling.

Just then, a piercing ping echoed, everyone spinning around.

Haja was standing by her vanity, still in the room, now holding her phone up. "I got a text,"

All the girls swarmed around her, chanting. "You have to scream it."

But Haja shook her head to the side.

"What?" Talia asked, confused. "No, like... you're not gonna read it out loud?"

"What does it say?" Kaitlyn asked, moving to lean over her shoulder.

Haja put a finger to her lips, glaring at everyone. She lowered her voice to a whisper, reading the text out under her breath so the boys down below wouldn't hear a word.

"Girls, today you'll be flying under the radar. Each of you must secretly complete one of the following tasks, but whatever you do, don't get caught."

A gasp filled the room, everyone trading smiles.

"Oh my god, yes!" Cleo whispered, clapping her hands together. "What do we have to do?"

Haja looked down at her screen, reading off the first dare on the list. "The first one—get every boy to say the word 'french fries'."

Talia jumped in, waving her hand. "I can do that easily."

"Perfect," Haja said, scrolling down. "Next one, ask a boy who isn't in your couple to join you in the photo booth and get a kiss on the cheek." Haja paused, smirking. "I can take that one. I'm pretty sure I can get that done. Next," Haja continued, "Third, ask a boy to get you a drink or a snack, and then send him back because it's not what you asked for three times."

Cleo burst out laughing, a glint in her eyes. "Oh, I’m takin’ that one. I can get Pope to do it. He's gonna be so annoyed."

"Fourth," Haja read, “Convince a boy that you lost something and get him to search the entire villa up and down for it."

Rima raised her hand, face lighting up. "Oh, I'll do that!"

"Okay, fifth," Haja muttered, "Get two different boys to give you a back rub at the same time."

Kaitlyn’s eyes went wide, a mischievous smile breaking out on her face. "Ooh! I can do that, for sure. And honestly, that sounds amazing right now. My back is killing me anyway." The girls all laughed quietly, giving her an encouraging nod.

"Get a boy to give you a piggyback ride around the villa."

Sarah smiled brightly, her teeth flashing. "Oh, I love piggyback rides! That’s me." She declared

Haja looked up from the screen, her eyes locking onto you. "Alright, there's only one left—get a boy to do your makeup for you."

You grinned, a confident shrug escaping your shoulders. "Oh, Rafe will do it for me no problem."

"Anddd," Haja said, reading the last line of the text. "The final mission is to get the boys to jump into the pool."

The room went silent as you all brain-stormed how on earth you could pull off a mass pool jump without looking suspicious.

"How are we gonna get all of them in the water?" Sarah whispered. 

"Oh!” you whispered, perking up as a spark of genius hitting you. "We can tell them that we realized we've never taken a big group video of all of us jumping into the pool together. Like a High School Musical moment. They'll all jump in, but we'll just stand back and watch them."

"Ooh, yes!" Cleo gasped, clapping silently.

"Okay, but we need a signal," Talia pointed out. "How do we let each other know we've completed our tasks?"

You thought for a second, then raised your hand. "Let's do this—whenever you finish your dare, look at the other girls, blow a kiss with your fingers crossed.”

WITHIN ten minutes, you and the girls all scattered across the outdoor deck, trying to seem casual. Some of you sat around the fire pit, others lounged on the daybeds, all pretending to just chat and sunbathe while keeping your eyes peeled.

Talia was the first as she walked with confidence over to the gym area where all the boys were still lifting weights.

You watched from the fire pit with Sarah, Rima, and Cleo, as Talia leaned against a squat rack, striking up a conversation. "Hey guys," her voice drifted. "I was just thinking about what we're gonna eat later. I'm so bored of the villa food.” She groaned as they all turned their attention to her. “What are y’all’s favorite foods outside of here?"

"Steak, I guess," Rafe muttered, wiping sweat from his forehead. “I’d actually kill for one right about now.”

"Honestly, I just want a burger," Pope said, standing up straight. "A burger and some good fries."

Talia seized the moment, looking at Pope. "What kind of fries though? Like are we talking waffle fries, curly fries...?"

"Nah, just regular french fries, man," Pope replied carelessly.

Talia then turned her gaze to JJ, who was drinking from a shaker cup. "What about you, J? You seem like a fast food guy."

"Oh, totally," JJ grinned, flexing his arms playfully. "Gimme a bucket of fried chicken and a mountain of greasy french fries and I'm a happy camper."

Talia smiled, turning to Theo and Justin next. "Are you guys the same, or do you try to stay healthy?"

"Man, fuck being healthy," Justin laughed. "I go straight for the subs and french fries. I’ll sweat it off later."

"Same," Theo chimed in. "Can't go wrong with french fries. I eat mine with ranch, though."

“Ew dude,” JJ cringed. “That’s weird.”

Theo just shrugged, a lopsided smirk on his lips. “Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.”

Talia had one target left, turning her eyes onto Rafe who was organizing some dumbbells. "Rafe?” She called. “You seem too fancy for fast food.” She taunted. “Do you even eat fries?"

Rafe paused, looking up at her with a slightly dry, confused expression. "Yes, I eat french fries.” He deadpanned, narrowing his eyes at her and her jokes. “Why you askin’ so many questions about potatoes?"

She just gave a sweet, innocent smile. "Oh, just curious,” she shrugged. “Alright, see you guys later. Bye!" Then she was skipping away, leaving all five boys standing there looking confused. As she walked past the firepit, Talia caught all of your eyes, lifted her hand, and blew a kiss across the yard with her fingers crossed.

Then it was Haja—her mission to get a kiss on the cheek in the photo booth from a boy outside of her couple. She decided to play the long game and target Theo and Justin, considering that she and both of them had entered the villa during Casa Amor, giving her the perfect excuse.

She walked over to where both boys were now standing by the outdoor kitchen, making post work-out smoothies. "Hey!" she called out, both turning to her and greeting her. "I just realized we don't have any photos together, me and my Casa boys.” She teased, shimmying her shoulders. “We should take some. I think the photobooth is empty."

Theo shrugged calmly. "Yeah, I’m down."

"Sure, let's do it," Justin agreed, putting the bag of frozen fruit down.

She led the two boys to the photobooth, the three of them piling into the cramped booth. You and the girls watched from a distance as the curtain closed. Inside, the first three photos were tame—just them flashing peace signs, making silly faces, and smiling at the lens. But right before the fourth and final flash, Haja leaned into the middle, grabbed both of their faces, and squealed, "Okay, now kiss me on the cheek, both of you! Quick, hurry!"

Neither of them really hesitated or thought twice about it, leaning in, planting two kisses onto each of Haja's cheeks right as the camera flashed.

A second later, Haja slid the curtain open and walked out of the booth, flashing a victorious smirk. She looked over at the firepit and blew the kiss.

Now, it was Cleo's turn. She stood up from the fire pit, stretching her arms out with a grin. "Oh, this is gonna be fun," she whispered to you as she walked past you all and straight over to the pool deck where Pope was now lounging back on a beach chair, relaxed under the sun. Cleo slid onto the edge of his seat, running a hand over his stubbled jaw to catch his attention. They chatted casually for about a minute before Cleo let out a dramatic sigh.

"Ugh," she mumbled, pouting. "I’m so thirsty."

Pope looked up at her, attentively. "D’you want me to grab you something to drink?"

"Yeah, that’d be great... but I don't even know what I want," she replied, looking helpless.

"I can just bring you somethin’," Pope said, standing up from his chair and walking all the way to the kitchen. A minute later, he emerged carrying an ice cold glass of water, handing it to her with a smile. "Here you go."

Cleo looked down at the glass, face twisting in disappointment. "Pope... if I wanted water, I would have said I wanted water."

Pope blinked, a bit taken aback, but just chuckled. "Um... okay. My bad." He took the glass back, walked all the way back to the kitchen, and returned a minute later with a new glass. "Alright. Here."

Cleo took it, took one tiny sip, and gagged. "Are you dense? This is still water.” She reprimanded. “It's just water with a lemon squeezed in it. Go get me like... cranberry juice or something."

Pope sighed deeply, a look of annoyance on his face. "Okay, cranberry juice. Got it." He turned around, marching back into the kitchen for the third time.

You and the girls were losing it from the fire pit, burying your faces in pillows to muffle your laughter. Pope finally emerged once more, carrying a glass filled with bright red cranberry juice, handing it to her. 

Cleo looked at the glass, then up at him with a straight face. "Actually,” she slumped. “I don't even want it anymore. Can you just go see if there's another kind of juice in there?"

Pope tensed, staring at her like she had lost her mind. He let out a low mutter under his breath—"What the hell?..."—but wanting to satisfy his girl, he turned right back around and walked back to the kitchen for a fourth time.

When he finally came back with a glass of pineapple juice, Cleo flashed him the sweetest, most innocent smile in the world. "Ah, thanks, you're the best!"

Pope just shook his head, baffled, and sat back down as Cleo immediately turned her head toward you and the other girls and blew a kiss with her fingers crossed tightly.

Next was Rima, having to convince a boy she lost something important and make him search for it. She obviously targeted Justin, walking over to where he was now sipping his smoothie, resting on the daybeds.

"Hey, babe," she said softly, sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Hey," Justin smiled.

Rima planted a sweet kiss on his cheek, engaging in casual conversation for a short minute about the weather and how much he liked her bathing suit today. But in the middle of Justin explaining the story of how JJ ended up trying to bench press more than his weight, Rima gasped, her hands flying to the top of her head.

"Oh shit," she cursed, face twisting into panic. "Where are my sunglasses?"

Justin blinked, looking at her face. "Uh... what sunglasses?” He raised a curious brow. “You weren't wearing any sunglasses—"

"Yes, I was." Rima insisted, voice rising slightly. "The all-black ones, my favorite pair, ugh,” she feigned distress. “I must have lost them somewhere. Can you help me find them?"

Justin groaned, rolling off around on the daybed. "I seriously don't remember you wearing any sunglasses today—"

Rima threw her hands up in the air, exasperated. "I was, Justin! Can you please just help me look instead of making me feel crazy?"

"Alright, my bad," Justin said, buying into her acting.

And for the next five minutes, Rima dragged Justin on a wild goose chase through the villa, searching top to bottom. They went up to Soul Ties, looked around the Speakeasy, looked under the bar stools. They even wandered off to Say Less, Justin getting down on his hands and knees to peer under the seat while Rima stood over him, pretending to fret.

After five minutes of looking, Justin stood up, dusting off his knees, looking wiped out. "They aren't anywhere." He panted.

Rima then paused, blinking innocently as she tapped her chin. "Huh... y’know what? Maybe I didn't even have them on today.” She shrugged. “I think the sun is driving me crazy.” Rima laughed, slapping Justin’s shoulder. “But thanks for helping me look anyway, babe!"

Justin stood in the middle of the room, jaw dropping open as he stared at her. "Are you serious right now?" But Rima didn't linger. She just skipped right out of the room, and as she cleared the doorway, she looked at you all and blew a kiss with her fingers crossed.

After Rima, Kaitlyn took her turn, needing to get two different boys to give her a back rub at the same time. Her eyes scanned the outdoor deck, and she spotted Pope and JJ standing together near the kitchen, caught in a conversation. Putting on her best damsel-in-distress expression, she walked up to them.

"Hey, guys, sorry to interrupt," Kaitlyn said, sounding exhausted as she looked at Pope. "Do you remember when I was talking about that weird, super tight muscle in my upper back? It’s gotten so much worse today.” She whined, massaging her back, face twisted in faux pain. “I remember you mentioning something about a massage that might help get the knot out. Do you…know how to do it?"

Pope nodded. "Oh, yeah, I know what you're talking about.” He smiled. 

Kaitlyn beamed at him. "Oh, fantastic! Can you please get it out for me? It just hurts so bad, and you're the only one I could think to ask about it."

"Yeah, sure, no problem," Pope said, stepping forward.

But right before he could start, Kaitlyn quickly turned her gaze over to JJ, who was just standing there watching. She flashed him a sweet smile. "You can help out too, since you're just standing there doing nothing."

JJ gasped playfully, putting a hand over his heart. "Hey! I’m keepin’ the vibe alive,” He shot out. “But alright, let's do it. Teamwork makes the dream work."

Kaitlyn giggled, dragging both boys over to a nearby beach chair as she laid flat on her stomach, burying her face in her arms. Pope took a spot on her left side, digging his thumbs into her upper shoulder, while JJ took the right side, clumsily but enthusiastically rubbing her lower back.

For a brief second, Kaitlyn lifted her head up from her arms, looked straight at you and the other girls, and blew a kiss with a smile.

Sarah took that as her cue, standing and scanning the yard for a boy who’d willingly give her a piggyback ride, eyes landing on Theo. She saddled up to him while he was grabbing a glass of water from the kitchen.

"Hey, handsome," she cooed, leaning against the counter.

"Hi, biondina," Theo smiled, leaning in across from her, sipping his water.

Sarah began making playful conversation, flirting and tossing her hair back. "You know, I bet you're super strong."

Theo smirked, leaning closer. "Oh, really?"

"Mhm," Sarah hummed, popping her hip. "I think I need you to prove it, though.” She teased. 

“And how do you suppose I do that?”

“Mmm…I love piggyback rides,” she edged. “and I haven't had one since I was a little kid."

"Is that a request?" Theo laughed, dropping his water cup as he rounded the counter and turned around by her side, bending his knees slightly as he peered over his shoulder. "Hop on."

Sarah grinned, jumping onto his back and locking her arms around his neck as Theo gripped her thighs and took off sprinting. He ran all around the yard, weaving in and out of the daybeds, while Sarah laughed, her hands flying through the air.

And as Theo sprinted past the fire pit with her on his back, Sarah managed to catch your eye and blow a laughing kiss with her fingers crossed tightly..

With Sarah’s dare out of the way, her and Theo still galloping around the villa, that only left you—get a boy to do your makeup. And of course, there was only one on your radar.

You scanned the villa and found Rafe, lounging back on one of the shaded daybeds near the entrance, long legs stretched out, relaxed. You sauntered over, shielding your face from the sun, and the second he noticed you approaching, a soft grin took over his face.

He reached up, grabbing your hand the second you got close enough, and pulled you down to sit on the edge of the cushions. "There you are," he murmured. "Where have you been? I missed you..."

You chuckled, leaning into his side. "You know I have to divide my time equally here. The girls need me, too. I can't just spend all day glued to you."

Rafe rolled his eyes, though his hand slid up to wrap around your waist, pulling you into his lap. "Yeah, whatever. They can’t give you what I can." He flirted.

“And what is that?” You challenged, looking down at him, hands on his shoulders. Rafe just fixed you with a pointed look, a look that told you if he answered where everyone could hear, you’d probably skin him. So, you just rolled your eyes, letting silence fall as his eyes raked over your face, softening.

 "You look very pretty today.” He muttered. “Not that you don't look pretty every day."

Your heart fluttered, a soft smile falling upon your features. "Oh, why thank you. You look pretty handsome yourself, Mr. Cameron."

"You make me sound so old," he muttered through a short laugh. But you couldn’t even respond as he leaned in, lips finding yours. And what started as a sweet kiss quickly turned into something much heavier as Rafe’s hand moved to the back of your neck, fingers edging into the hair at the nape of your neck as he pulled you against him, lips parting yours with a sweep of his tongue as he dove in deeper—tongue sliding against your own, fighting for air before he pulled back, your bottom lip tugged lightly between his teeth.

When you finally pulled back, gasping slightly for air, you looked at his face and almost burst out laughing. Your lip liner was smeared all over his lips and his chin.

"Oh my god," you giggled, reaching up to wipe it. "My lip liner is literally all over your face."

Rafe just smirked, unbothered, his grip on your waist tightening. "Leave it."

You scoffed playfully, swatting his shoulder as you stood up from the bed, grabbing his hand and pulling him up with you. "Now I have to go redo it.” You retorted. “And since you're the one who messed it up, you're coming with me."

Rafe let out a low laugh, willing to follow you anywhere. "Yes, ma'am."

You dragged him all the way into the empty glam room, Rafe walking right behind you, hands resting possessively on your waist the entire way. You sat down on one of the pink velvet stools facing the mirror and turned to look at him.

You picked up your two lip liner pencils from the counter—the darker shade for the outer contour and the lighter shade for the center, handing them both to him.

"You ruin it," you said, tilting your chin up, looking him in the eyes. "You fix it."

Rafe stared down at the pencils in his hand like they were pieces from two different puzzles, looking up at you, a mix of amusement and caution. "Angel... If I do this, you’re gonna look like a clown.” He huffed a laugh. “I don't know what I’m doin’."

"Yes, you do," you reassured him, leaning closer into his space, hands on his waist as you pulled him to stand in between your legs. "Because I’m gonna help you."

Rafe smirked, stepping even further between your knees as you sat on the stool, bringing his body closer to yours as he leaned down, his face inches from yours. "Oh, yeah? You gonna talk me through it, huh? Nice and slow?" He teased.

You fought the warmth rising in your cheeks, lifting your hand to push a firm finger against his forehead, pushing his face away from yours. "Stop flirting. Pay attention," you said, using your best strict voice. "Focus, Pac-Man."

“Pac-Man?”

“Yeah, ‘cause you ate my lips off.”

Rafe chuckled, but shook his head as he leaned down and actually tried, lifting the darker pencil, fingers surprisingly gentle as he touched the side of your jaw to steady his hand and your face. He leaned in close, his breath warm against your skin as he began to carefully trace the outer edge of your top lip.

But he kept getting distracted, eyes tracing your lips then darting up to meet your eyes, noting the way you were looking at him. He stopped the pencil, staring at your mouth, jaw ticking.

"You look really sexy right now," he muttered roughly.

"Rafe, focus," you scolded gently, though a smile was breaking through.

He let out a low grunt, carefully filling in the center of your lips with the lighter pencil, thumb gently smoothing out the edges where he’d messed up a bit. Once he was done with the pencils, you reached over and picked up a glossy tube, holding it out to him.

Rafe looked down at the label, a smirk pulling at his lips. "Oh. Fenty.” He raised one eyebrow, a grin on his lips. “That's fancy."

“...How would you know?” You asked, slightly skeptical.

Rafe just fixed you a deadpan expression, head slightly titled. “I have two sisters.”

“Right…” you dragged out playfully.

“Jealous ass.” Rafe scoffed, laughing as he leaned down, grabbing your chin to make you face him before uncapping the gloss before carefully swiping the wand across your lower lip. 

The second he placed the tube back down on the counter, he didn't even give you a chance to look in the mirror and inspect his work before grabbing you firmly by the jaw again, fingers digging into your cheeks, pulling you forward into another bruising kiss.

"Rafe!" you mumbled into his lips, laughing as you tried to pull away. "You're messing it up all over again!"

"Mhm, I don't really care," he growled playfully, his lips chasing yours.

You giggled into the kiss, turning your face away from him with a smile. 

You looked back at him, slapping his bare chest before grabbing his hand, tugging him out of the glam room and back outside. The second your feet hit the grass, you spotted Cleo, Rima, and Sarah watching from the fire pit and blew them a kiss.

After the girls noticed your reappearance, they decided it was time for the final mission, giving each other subtle nods.

Cleo took the lead, standing from where she’d been seated at the fire pit, cupping her hands around her mouth.

"Guys!" Cleo announced, all of them turning to her, you and Rafe pausing where you were, still holding hands. "Come over here! We have an idea!"

“What idea?” JJ’s voice boomed as everyone walked towards the firepit, circling around now.

“We should…jump in the pool.” She smiled cutely, clasping her hands together as everyone came to a stop in front of her and the girls.

"Um... no thanks," Justin said, shaking his head. "I’m still sweaty. I don’t want to be sweaty and covered in chlorine."

"Yeah, I'm good," Rafe muttered, shifting to stand behind you, hands over your shoulders, hanging loosely in front of you.

"Come onnn," you chimed in, pleading to all the guys but looking up at Rafe for a brief second. "It’s gonna be like a High School Musical moment!"

“I hated High School Musical,” Theo muttered, crossing his arms, shrugging.

JJ nudged his shoulder, smirking. “Me too. Lemonade Mouth wins, all day.”

"Who's even gonna record it if we're all in the water?" Pope asked, raising an eyebrow at Cleo.

"We'll just set the phone up." Talia explained, waving her hand out aimlessly. "Why are you acting like you've never used a phone before?” Her eyes squinted. “Come on, you guys!"

JJ’s shrugged, sighing, eyes on Talia. "I’ll do it." He caved, looking sheepish as the guys all groaned. “We were all gonna shower anyway! What’s it gonna hurt?”

And with JJ on board, the rest of the boys reluctantly groaned, grumbling as they walked over to the edge of the pool and you all clapped and cheered behind them. They lined up side-by-side as you and girls all lined up right behind them, grinning widely. You were the one to set the phone up against a potted plant on the grass, hitting record, and running back to the lineup.

"Alright, from three!" Sarah shouted.

"Three!" the girls started.

"Two!"

The boys all bent their knees, preparing for a leap.

"One! Jump!"

With a loud shout, all five boys launched themselves forward, flying through the air and landing into the water with a synchronized splash.

But you and the girls didn't move an inch.

The second the boys hit the water, you all burst into hysterical screams of laughter, jumping up and down.

The boys surfaced a second later, shaking the water out of their eyes, wiping their faces, and turning around to tread water. They stared up at you all, annoyed and bewildered.

"Hey! What the hell?!" JJ yelled, splashing the water in frustration.

"We did it! We did it! We did it!" you and the girls chanted, ignoring their complaints. You all turned to each other, raising your hands, blowing crossed-fingered kisses at each other.

The boys slowly climbed out of the pool, dripping wet, water pooling around their feet as they stomped onto the deck. "C’mon," Justin muttered, shaking water off himself, trying to shake it out of his ear. “Did you all just feel like being asses today?”

Haja giggled, holding up her phone. "It was a text we got earlier this morning,” she tells the guys. “We had to complete our missions without getting caught, and the last one was getting all of you in the pool."

Rafe walked up behind you, soaking wet, water dripping down his face. Before you could react, he wrapped his strong, wet arms around your waist from behind, pulling your body against his dripping chest. You shrieked at the cold water, but he didn't care, turning you around in his arms so you had to look up at him.

A knowing smirk was plastered on his wet face. "Is that why Talia came up to us askin’ about french fries?"

You couldn’t contain your laughter, nodding against his chest.

Rafe’s eyes narrowed playfully, grip tightening around your waist as he leaned down. "And is that why you suddenly acted like you actually cared about me kissing your makeup? Because any other time, you don't have an issue..."

You bit the inside of your cheek as you bashfully pushed against his wet chest, looking away. "Shut up."

Rafe just let out a deep chuckle, planting a wet kiss right on the tip of your nose.

FOR the rest of the afternoon had this lazy, peaceful vibe. Couples were scattered around the yard, focusing on getting to know each other or just chatting.

Talia and JJ were running around, chasing each other and laughing hysterically like a couple of little kids. Over in the shallow end of the pool, Cleo and Pope were wading together, Pope's arms wrapped around her waist as they shared quiet whispers. Rima and Justin were laid out on the lounge chairs, sunbathing side-by-side, while Haja and Kaitlyn were deep in conversation over on the shaded daybeds, with Sarah and Theo having wandered off into the privacy of the Speakeasy to talk.

You and Rafe were chilling on one of the big daybeds, wrapped up in each other as you watched the villa move around you. You were laying flat on Rafe’s chest, head resting right over his heart while his large fingers traced soothing patterns up and down your bare arm.

"I'm really happy for everyone," you murmured softly, looking out at the yard. "Like, look at JJ and Talia. He seems to have really found someone who might actually be his person. And Sarah even told me earlier that things are going great with Theo."

"Yeah?" Rafe asked, deep voice vibrating through his ribs against your cheek.

"Mhm,” you hummed. “Plus, Cleo and Pope are back together after all their drama," you continued, sighing happily. "Even Rima and Justin are doing pretty well. But... I do feel a little bit bad about Kaitlyn. She told us today that she was really hoping for a male bombshell to come in, and I just feel like... I don't know, I feel like I might have ruined that opportunity for her…by coming back."

Rafe stopped his hand on your arm, shifting slightly so he could look down at you. "Hey. Don't feel bad about that.” He told you firmly. “You can't please everyone, angel. You had to do what was right for you—what was right for us. That's why we're all here. Kaitlyn will be fine."

You smiled up at him, guilt melting away under his gaze as you shifted your position, looking at him curiously. "Hey... how are the guys doing? After John B's elimination? I know it was a lot."

Rafe exhaled, looking out over the villa. "I mean... they all took it a little hard, including myself. He was here since the first day, y’know? But I think we all understood that his actions with the whole Casa situation were far from okay.” He scoffed, shaking his head. “We respect the decision the girls made to dump him. But... things definitely feel weird around here without him."

You nodded understandingly, running your hand gently over his stomach, the heat of the afternoon sun suddenly starting to feel sticky and overwhelming on your skin as you let out a low groan, burying your face into his neck.

"I think I'm getting heat exhaustion.” You whined into his skin. “I just want to lay down."

Rafe looked down at you, thumb gently wiping sweat from your hairline, eyes full of concern. "D’you wanna take a nap, angel?"

"...Yeah," you sighed against his skin. "Think so."

Without another word, and without a second thought, Rafe slid his arms underneath your body. In one smooth motion, he lifted you up into his arms, rising from the daybed and carrying you bridal-style.

You gasped, wrapping your arms tightly around his neck as he began walking across the pool deck. "Rafe, what're you doing?"

Rafe just looked down at you with a genuinely confused, deadpan expression. "You said you wanted to take a nap.” He said like you’d forgotten. “So we're going to take a nap."

You chuckled, heart melting. "Well... you don't have to come with me, you know. You can stay out here with everyone."

"I know," Rafe murmured, eyes locking onto yours as he pushed walked up the stairs to the bedroom with you in his arms. "I want to."

He carried you all the way through the villa and into the main bedroom where Rafe still had his bed with his nameplate on it from when he was coupled up with Sofia. Now that Sofia was dumped, it was just his.

He walked over to his mattress and gently laid you onto the soft sheets, leaning down to help tuck the thick duvet around your shoulders. Before you could even blink, he walked around to the other side and climbed in beside you, pulling the covers over himself.

You turned your head on the pillow, looking at him with a soft, yet amused, smile. "Isn’t this breaking the rules of some kind? We aren't ‘coupled up’.” You mocked.

“To me, we are.” Rafe dismissed, eyes on yours.

 “The producers are probably on their way. Or typing out a warning text, right now." You laughed softly.

Rafe just pulled you into him, hand wrapping around the back of your waist to anchor you against him. He let out a low, defiant huff. "Probably. But nobody’s here yet, so fuck it."

You were both tucked under the heavy covers, the air conditioning of the bedroom washing over your skin. Rafe was gently stroking the side of your face with his thumb, his gaze locked onto you, while you just traced the lines of his jaw and his eyes.

"What happened?" you whispered, breaking the comfortable silence. "While I was gone.”

Rafe instantly let out a dramatic groan, turning his face and burying it into the pillow beside your head. "Please don't make me think about it. I was so fuckin’ miserable and whiny the whole time."

You chuckled softly. "I know, I'm sorry.”

“...’s not your fault.” He mutters bitterly, the memory of the night you left clouding his mind before you pulled him from it. 

“You had to have had at least a little bit of fun,” you egg on. “Did anything happen?"

Rafe lifted his head, rolling his eyes. "We did a Twitter challenge where they read out tweets from the public. That was…somethin’, I guess."

Your jaw dropped, and you let out a groan of pure envy, slapping his chest. "Oh my fuck! Are you serious?” You pouted. “I was looking forward to that. Ugh, I can't believe I missed it.” You mumbled, irritated. “Well, what happened? Tell me."

Rafe shrugged, thumb resuming its gentle path along your cheekbone. "Honestly, it wasn't really anything too eventful. For me, anyway. But, turns out... the public hated Sofia, John B, Haja, and Miles. It was honestly kind of cruel to watch."

You sighed, nodding your head against his chest. "Well... that's kind of expected. They all made really poor choices, and some of them are just poor people.” You rolled your eyes. “The public sees everything." You paused, tilting your head up to look into his blue eyes. "What did they say about you?"

Rafe went quiet for a moment, eyes scanning your face. "To be honest, they weren't nearly as bad as I was thinking they'd be. I was sittin’ there the whole time expecting people to call me a bad person, thought they were gonna say that you should be running away from me, that I was…fucked up or somethin’, I don’t know.” He shrugged. “I just know I expected to be one of the most hated people up there."

He paused, letting out a soft breath. "...So I was really surprised when I wasn't.” He sighs, the ghost of a smile on his lips, as if the thought warmed his heart, bringing something youthful out of him. “But I couldn't even bring myself to care. Because all I could think about the entire time was the fact that you weren't there with me."

Your heart swelled with so much emotion it actually ached as you reached up, cupping his jaw with your hand, fingers sliding into what little hair he had. "That's because they see what I see.” You started. “That you have a good heart.” You smiled, eyes scanning his face. “You just had to find the right person to bring it out. I think we both did."

Rafe’s eyes went dark as he smiled at you briefly before he leaned down, his lips meeting yours in a slow, sweet kiss that felt different from the heated makeout from earlier. It was a kiss full of unspoken devotion.

When he pulled back, he left one last peck on your lips before he tucked your head under his chin, wrapping his arms around your body. And within minutes, the cool room and the exhausting morning caught up to you both, and you fell asleep, curled into each other.

ONLY to be violently jarred awake an hour later by the loud sound of someone screaming from the main hallway.

"I got a text!" JJ’s booming voice broke the peace of the empty bedroom.

Suddenly, you could hear the sounds of all the other islanders running through the villa, their footsteps loud against the flooring.

"Where the hell did Rafe and Y/N go?" Pope’s voice carried from the hallway.

"They're probably fucking somewhere," Justin laughed loudly, joking.

A second later, the bedroom door flew open and the islanders charged into the room, stopping dead in their tracks when they found you and Rafe curled up together under the duvet, rubbing sleep from your eyes.

"Well," Cleo smirked, leaning against the doorframe. "Aren't you two just the cutest?"

Rafe let out a rough, sleep-deprived grumble as he glared at them. "Just read the damn text."

JJ grinned, holding up the phone, and read the text out loud.

"Islanders, tonight there will be a recoupling—boys' choice. Please, get ready and make your way to the fire pit."

Instead of the usual dread that accompanied a recoupling, you and Rafe looked at each other, pure relief and happiness washing over both of you for the first time in days.

For the first time in twenty-seven days, there was nothing standing in your way. No Sofia, no Theo, no Casa Amor—nothing. You both smiled, more than happy and more than ready.

THE whole time you were getting ready—fixing your hair, doing your makeup, sliding into the stunning dress you’d picked out—you couldn’t wipe the radiant smile from your face.

After everything you and Rafe had been through —the arguments, the separations, the constant roadblocks—you were finally getting your moment of peace, getting to be together again and, hopefully, for the last time. And you knew, with absolute certainty, that whatever or whoever came into this villa from here on out could not break you. You had run into the biggest obstacles possible and come out on the other side even better every single time.

When the other girls were ready, you all walked down the stairs together, the boys lined up at the bottom, looking sharp as they admired you all.

As you reached the bottom step, Rafe stepped forward, taking your hand in his, his eyes lighting up as they raked your frame. He leaned down, voice a low whisper against your ear. "You look beautiful, angel.” He complimented, planting a soft kiss on your cheek as the two of you followed behind the crowd. “You excited?"

You looked up at him, smiling. "Over the moon, actually." You leaned up, planting a sweet kiss in return on his cheek, walking out to the fire pit.

THE night sky was dark, the fire pit crackling in the center of the deck as all of you took your seats. A moment later, Ariana walked out, looking gorgeous.

"Good evening, Islanders," Ariana smiled, stopping in front of you all. "As always, it’s amazing to see your lovely faces.” She offered. “And though it seems today has been fun for you all, and I hate to burst your bubble…welcome to tonight’s recoupling. And boys... it is your choice.” She told them, all of the men nodding silently. “Girls, if you could, please come and stand next to me."

You and the rest of the girls stood up from the couches, giving your men silent looks and touches before walking over to line up next to Ariana, facing the boys who remained seated.

Ariana turned her gaze to the men, speaking. "One by one, I will call you up, and you will explain the girl you want to couple up with, and why.” She told them, reminding them of the typical procedure. “Pope... you're up first."

Pope stood up, smoothing down his shirt. He took a deep breath, clasping his hands behind his back.

"I would like to couple up with this girl because... I know she's the one for me," He said, voice strong. "I regret it taking me so long to finally find that out, and I made some mistakes along the way. But I am just so glad that in the end, we got it figured out and I pulled myself together. So, the girl I want to couple up with is... Cleo."

And you all cheered, clapping as Cleo walked over, a smile on her face, wrapping Pope in a tight hug before taking his hand, standing beside him. Ariana looked at them, smiling. "Cleo, how do you feel?"

"I feel amazin’," Cleo beamed. "My man is back where he belongs." She teased, poking Pope’s side.

“Well, congratulations to you both. You may take your seats.” Ariana nodded, turning her head. "Rafe... you're next."

Rafe stood up from the couch, eyes locked onto you from the second his feet hit the ground. He stood straight, burying his hands in his pockets, a relaxed, soft expression on his face.

“Please, tell us who you would like to couple up with.”

"I want to couple up with this girl because... man, I’ve gone through so much with her in such a short amount of time," Rafe began, deep voice echoing in the quiet of the night. "It's honestly still a shock to me that after everything that's happened—days ago, weeks ago, and even hours ago—that she’s still standing here before me today. She stuck by me."

He paused, taking a deep breath as his eyes softened, looking straight at you. "I know I’ve said it too much, or maybe not enough, but I have never felt this way about anyone in my life. And I hope to feel this way with her for the rest of it. I know that I will.” He gave you a lopsided smile. “So, the girl I want to couple up with is... Y/N."

Your heart soared as you walked across the deck, heels clicking while everyone around clapped, watching as you wound your arms around his neck and Rafe caught you, lifting you slightly off your feet as he squeezed you in his arms.

Ariana smiled warmly at the two of you. "How do you feel?"

"I've never been happier," you said as Rafe let you down, standing beside him with his hand in yours, looking up at him, who was looking down at you like you were the only thing in the world. “And I’m just glad we got another chance.”

Ariana nodded, a blush on her cheeks. “Well, congratulations.” She offered as the pair of you sat down, Rafe squeezing your hand and placing a small kiss on your temple as you leaned your head on his shoulder.

“Theo,” Ariana called, watching the man stand with a confident smile, looking at Sarah. 

"My speech is a little bit shorter than the other guys, but it's just as real," Theo said, laughing lightly. "I feel like this girl has been put through the ringer in here. I've watched her go through guys who just didn't consider her feelings at all. And even after everything, I didn't expect to be the one standing here with her. But I love her bubbly personality, I think her smile is breathtaking, and I believe I can be the one for her. I just hope to live up to her standards, because she deserves it.” He said honestly. “So, tonight, I choose Sarah."

Sarah blushed, walking over to join him as you all gave an applause. When Ariana asked how they felt, Sarah squealed, "He's just perfect,” she fawned. “I definitely never saw us together before just a few days ago, but I’m happy things changed.”

And as they took their seats, Justin was called up next, his choice obvious as he stood. "I’m very grateful for this girl," he said, looking at Rima. "Grateful for her patience and her understanding with me. It feels like no matter what happens, we just keep finding our way back to each other somehow, even when things don't work out the first time around.” He smiled. “So, the girl I’m choosing is Rima."

Rima smiled, walking over to join him as you all cheered lightly, telling Ariana she felt relieved and ready to focus on the future.

Finally, it was JJ’s turn—three girls left standing next to Ariana. 

Haja, Kaitlyn, and Talia.

JJ took a deep breath as Ariana called him to stand, rubbing the back of his neck as he looked at them.

"Although I'm standing before three beautiful women tonight... only one of them has managed to really catch my eye.” He starts, nervous. “I never thought I'd find someone who was everything I’d been looking for in my life. And then... she just walked into the villa on a random night while I was covered in like six different colors of paint.” He joked, earning small laughs from the rest of you. “I couldn't have been more grateful. And I can’t wait to see where things go with this girl.” He nodded to himself. “The girl I would like to couple up with is Talia."

Talia beamed, running into JJ’s arms as he spun her around, all of you congratulating them as JJ set the girl back down on her feet, both of them sitting back down.

Ariana then congratulated all the newly formed couples, the energy around the firepit warm and celebratory. But then, her expression turned into something more serious as she turned her eyes toward the two remaining girls.

"Haja, Kaitlyn... as the only two girls not chosen, you are both single and vulnerable," Ariana announced softly. "Do you have anything you want to say?"

And though she didn’t say it, they both knew this was the end of the line for them.

Kaitlyn started first, a sweet, grateful smile on her face. "I am just so appreciative of this entire experience," she said softly. "I'm grateful for all the amazing people I met . And although I didn't find a romantic connection... I made some wonderful friends in here. I'm going to miss all of your beautiful faces."

Haja spoke next, her expression a bit more bitter, though still bittersweet. "My experience definitely isn't what I felt like it should have been," she said bluntly. "I think I was villainized a little bit more than what was necessary. But... at the end of the day, we all came here for the same thing, and I'm just glad that you all seem to have found it."

“Well,” Ariana nodded gently, lips curled. "Haja, Kaitlyn—you are both single, vulnerable, and dumped from the island." She told them, both girls giving small nods of defeat. “Your time in the villa has unfortunately come to an end. You may pack your bags, say your goodbyes, and get ready to leave.” She explained, turning to the rest of you. “As for the rest of you, I will see you soon.”

The second Ariana made her exit, all of you rose from your seats, walking over to Haja and Kaitlyn. Everyone gathered around Kaitlyn first, giving her a slightly tearful group hug, the guys included. And despite all the drama that had happened with Haja over the past couple of weeks, everyone put it aside, stepping forward to give her sincere goodbye as well.

You and the girls all walked both of them up to the glam room to help them pack their things. And as clothes were stuffed into suitcases, the atmosphere was surprisingly sweet. "I know it’s been a rollercoaster," you told Kaitlyn, hugging her tightly, still feeling a small pinch of guilt. "But I'm happy I met you. I hope you find your guy on the outside."

"Thanks, babe," Kaitlyn smiled.

Once the suitcases were full and zipped, you and the girls helped them carry their stuff down the stairs where the guys were waiting by the front door.

"Hey, hold on a second. Before you leave, " Cleo called to the two girls. "We need to go take some photos."

At her reminder, the girls swarmed the photo booth with Haja and Kaitlyn, cramming inside to memorialize the moment—silly faces, cute ones—photos to keep as memories. Once the prints slid out, you all hugged them one last time, and they walked out the front doors, everyone waving goodbye as you watched them disappear.

Confessional : Kaitlyn "I am still so grateful for this experience, even if it ends here. I have to thank Pope for bringing me back, the girls for being so welcoming and accepting of me, and obviously the chance for the opportunity to even be here. This was really the summer of my life. But I officially hate the producers for not bringing in a single male bombshell for me and just leaving me hanging!" She laughed, waving it off. "But it's whatever. I love Love Island! I’ll miss it here!" She blew a kiss to the camera.

Confessional : Haja "I came in here, did my thing, and I’m not going to apologize for the way I went about everything or the way things played out. I felt like that's what this experience was supposed to be about.” She shrugged. “And though I regret hurting people's feelings, and doing some things that people might consider moving too fast... at the end of the day, I stayed true to myself. That was all I could do."

LATER that night, the remaining girls gathered in the glam room, sliding into silk pajamas and scrubbing off the dirt of the day.

"It's so crazy," Sarah sighed, sitting at her vanity space. "Like... all of the Casa girls are gone now. Casa feels like it was a million years ago, but…also like it was just yesterday."

"I know," Rima agreed. "It's wild to think that all the girls who came back from there are just... not here anymore."

Cleo turned to you, a smirk on her face. "Well, I know one person who’s probably thrilled about it, considering Sofia is gone for good."

You burst out laughing, brushing your hair. "Hell yeah, I'm happy she's gone!” You admitted, shrugging lightly. “I finally get to share a bed with my man again. I can't wait to just lay on his chest all night, feel his arms around me—" You fawned, exaggerating your words.

"Alright, alright," Talia laughed, throwing a pillow at you.

"Oh, you all love us, don't lie." you laughed, dodging the pillow, turning to Talia, eyebrows raised. "How are you feeling now that JJ chose you? You guys finally get to share a bed tonight."

Talia beamed, eyes sparkling. "I’m so excited.” She whispered, cheesing. “Hearing his speech tonight... it really just made me feel really confident about his interest in me. I was getting scared that it wasn’t mutual.” She laughed to herself.

Once everyone was ready for bed, the girls filed out of the room and into the main bedroom. The minute you stepped through the doorway, you spotted Rafe already under the covers of your shared bed, propped up against the pillows with his hands behind his head, chatting with JJ who was in the bed next to yours.

You ran across the bedroom and launched yourself onto the bed, landing on top of him.

Rafe let out a grunt under your sudden weight, hands instinctively catching your waist as he glared up at you playfully. "What the hell is wrong with you?” He deadpanned, though you saw the ghost of a smile on his lips. “You’re like a big ass kid."

You pouted dramatically, shifting as if to slide off the bed. "Oh, wow.” You scoffed, glaring at him over your shoulder. “Forgive me for being excited to finally share a bed with you again. It's fine. I'll just go sleep outside since you hate me—"

But before your feet could touch the floor, Rafe’s hands gripped your waist. In one effortless motion, he body slammed you back onto the mattress, pinning your body beneath his.

You laughed loudly, hands catching his shoulders as he leaned over you, a bright grin on his face. "You're dramatic," he muttered, kissing all over your face—your cheeks, forehead, nose—before his fingers dug into your sides to tickle you. You shrieked and writhed beneath him, laughing until your chest ached, Rafe looking happy to finally have you back in his bed where you belonged.

"Alright, none of that!" JJ shouted from across the bedroom, throwing a pillow at the two of you. "Save it for the hideaway!"

Rafe laughed, stopping the tickling and putting his hands up in surrender, turning around to flip JJ and the rest of the guys off before dragging you back upright, pulling the duvet over both of your bodies as everyone began calling out goodnight.

THE next morning, the bright lights clicked on automatically, and one by one, the islanders began groaning, rolling out of bed, and filing out of the room to start their morning routines.

But Rafe didn't stir, still sound asleep, buried under the covers, snoring softly.

You sat up, looking around the room tiredly. Within minutes, the bedroom was completely empty.

Groaning, you pushed his arm as hard as you could, which wasn’t very. “Rafe,” you rasped, pouting tiredly before groaning again when he didn’t budge, nudging him again. “Rafe, get up,” you huffed, looking down at him.

He looked incredibly cute, face soft in sleep, when an idea suddenly flashed through your mind, heart racing. Biting your lip, you carefully threw the blanket over your head, shimmying your body down, sliding down the mattress until you were planted in between Rafe’s legs.

Even through the soft fabric of his sweatpants, you could already see the clear, prominent outline of his dick, growing hard. Your hands shook slightly with nervous excitement, but you didn't stop as you reached out, fingers slowly and carefully dragging the waistband of his sweatpants and boxers down his long, muscular legs until he was exposed to the warm air under the blanket.

You swallowed hard, eyes adjusting to the dim light under the covers. Right at the very tip of his thick shaft, a tiny bead of precum was already glistening. You gripped him gently with your fingers, pumping him in slow strokes, watching the vein along the underside of his cock twitch under your touch.

Deciding to take it a step further, you leaned down, parting your lips, taking the warm head of his dick into your mouth, sucking on the tip, tongue swirling in tight, wet circles while your hand kept up a steady motion, the sounds of your mouth on him loud in the quiet of the bedroom.

Rafe suddenly let out a low, ragged groan, body stirring as consciousness slowly began to overtake him. He wasn't fully awake yet, mind still trapped in sleep, but his hips gave a subtle, subconscious nudge upward into your mouth, forcing himself further into your mouth as one of his hands trailed lazily down his own stomach, fingers brushing against your arm.

As you picked up the pace, sliding your lips further down his shaft, taking more and more of him into your throat, Rafe’s eyes blinked open, a rough gasp leaving his lips.

"Fuck," he sigh, voice deeper than usual, rough with lust and morning grit.

His hand under the blanket felt around aimlessly before finding the back of your head. He let out a breathless string of curses under his breath as the sensation of your mouth wrapped around his cock fully registered in his brain. And, early in the morning like this, he had zero control over his body or the raw sounds escaping his throat.

"Fuck... angel," he choked out, his knuckles turning white in your hair as his hips began to buck up into your mouth. His movements were rough, desperate, as your throat squeezed him tightly, tongue pressing against the underside, trailing the biggest vein as you continued your motions.

The hand on your head pushed down firmly, guiding you even deeper onto him, his breathing coming in ragged pants for a few short moments before, suddenly, his body went rigid, hips stuttering violently as a tremor ran through his muscles.

"Mm…’m gonna," he tried to warn, voice a strained whisper as he purposely loosened the grip on your head just a bit, giving you the space to pull away…if you wanted to.

But you stayed where you were, keeping your lips locked around him, ropes of cum shooting down your throat, hands gripping his thighs as his body bucked one last time. You swallowed down every drop, throat moving in steady swallows until he started to soften.

Rafe weakly lifted the edge of the covers, looking down in between his legs with a blown-out, hooded gaze, as you let him slide out of your mouth, chest heaving for air, a lazy smirk pulling at his lips.

“Good morning,” you smiled up at him.

"Morning to you too, freak," he panted.

You looked up at him through your eyelashes, eyes slightly watery as you reached up, wiping a stray wet drop from the corner of your mouth with your thumb.

Rafe let out another low curse at the sight of you, reaching down, grabbing you firmly by your upper arms, and dragging your body all the way up the mattress until you were laying on his bare chest.

He wrapped his arms around you, heart hammering like a drum against your cheek. "What was that about?" he muttered, voice still raspy.

"Nothing," you mumbled, hiding your face in his neck. "I just felt like it, I guess."

Rafe hummed, hand sliding down to rest on your waist. He looked around the quiet, empty bedroom, then turned his gaze back to you. "Anyone could have walked in, y’know that, right?"

You just shrugged. "That's what makes it fun."

Rafe let out a laugh, reaching down to slap the skin of your bare ass cheeks that were peeking out from beneath your short sleep shorts. "You're bad."

He sat up then, pulling your body with him so that your legs wrapped around his waist, holding you tightly against him. He leaned in, grabbing your jaw, and kissed you hard—a bruising, intense kiss, his teeth lightly biting your bottom lip allowing his tongue to slide into your mouth, hands grabbing hungrily at your skin.

But after a moment, you were the one to reluctantly pull away, laughing weakly. "Okay, okay, stop,” you leaned back. “I feel so disgusting right now, Rafe. I need to go get ready. It's so early, I haven't even brushed my teeth yet, and now... all I can taste is your cum in my mouth."

Rafe’s eyes darkened at the phrase, a low groan escaping his lips. "That sounds so oddly beautiful coming from you."

You laughed, rolling your eyes as you slid out of his lap. "There is seriously something wrong with you."

"What, you don't like it?" Rafe joked, holding his hands up as he watched you walk away. "I'm offended. I drink my water, okay? I'm healthy."

"Mixing with the taste of my morning breath and how dry my mouth is? Not particularly, no," you teased, sticking your tongue out at him.

Rafe just rolled his eyes, a fond smile on his face as he let you head out to the glam room.

"TOOK you long enough,” Cleo called from her stool, all eyes on you as you walked in. "Did you and Rafe take advantage of the empty bedroom?"

You kept your face straight, walking over to your vanity. "No.” You lied. “I spent like five whole minutes trying to shake his ass awake."

Rima narrowed her eyes, a disbelieving smirk on her face. "Mhm, sure you did."

You just laughed as you began brushing your teeth. Sarah turned around, changing the subject to save you. "Well, back to our topic of conversation... I have to admit, Theo is really starting to grow on me. We had the best talk last night."

But before the conversation could actually continue, a knock hit the door, and the boys filed in carrying plates of breakfast for everyone, before offering kisses, all of you offering thank-yous before they left you all to finish getting ready.

LATER that afternoon, the villa felt tranquil—everyone scattered around the yard, enjoying the Fiji weather. You and Rafe were sitting together on one of the shaded daybeds near the pool, wrapped up in each other's embrace.

You were leaning against his side, his arm around your shoulders as you traced circles on his knee. "I can't believe we're really getting so close to the end of this," you murmured softly, looking out at the water. "There are only five couples left. It's actually kind of scary to think about how everything might play out from here."

"Yeah," Rafe agreed, his voice quiet. "It's wild."

"I was just thinking about what's coming next," you said, shifting to look at him. "Like Family Day. I'm so nervous."

Rafe blinked, looking down at you with a blank, confused expression. "What's Family Day?"

You froze, staring up at him in disbelief. "Rafe... have you never watched a single episode of this show before?"

Rafe let out a soft, slightly embarrassed chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. "I mean... not really, no."

You scoffed, sitting up straighter. "So you're telling me you went through the entire casting process to be on a reality show that you have never watched?"

“…Yeah," Rafe shrugged, a confident but soft smirk hitting his lips. "I just did it on a whim. I don't even know why. I just felt like it was something I had to do at the time... and honestly, I believe it was something that was just meant to bring me closer to you."

Your heart melted into mush, rolling your eyes as you reached up, playfully pushing his shoulder as a wide smile broke across your face. "Ugh, you’re such a cornball."

Rafe just laughed, leaning down to plant a quick, sweet kiss on your lips. "Just tell me what Family Day is, sassy."

You adjusted, leaning back into him. "Family Day happens towards the end," you explained. "It's a part of the last few days. Our families, or friends, come inside the villa to meet us, and meet our partners.” You told him, playing with his hands. “…Do you think your family will come down for you?"

Rafe went quiet for a moment before speaking. "Well, now that you mention it, I think something about a family visit was mentioned to me during the whole process or whatever." He paused, jaw tightening slightly. "But honestly... my dad and stepmom will definitely not be coming down. They didn't want me to come on this show in the first place, thought it was a stupid decision. But I'm really hoping my sisters can make it."

He paused, his eyes softening as he looked at you. "What about you?"

Your smile faded just a bit, your eyes dropping to your hands. "Well... you know I don't keep in contact with my parents at all. We don't speak, and I have absolutely no intention of speaking to them ever again. But I do have some pretty close friends from back home. So I'm really hoping maybe they can make their way here."

Suddenly, a loud chime echoed across the yard and Theo shouted, "Text!"

Everyone rose from where they were, swarming the center deck as Theo read it out loud.

"Islanders, it's time to turn chemistry into harmonies! Tonight, you'll be taking center stage in the Love Island USA Couples Karaoke Contest!"

YOU and Rafe were the first ones to walk into the glam room together to get ready, wanting to coordinate your outfits.

You two sounded like an old married couple, Rafe standing in the middle of the glam room, going through your closet to help you pick out a dress, pulling options from the hangers.

"No, I don't like that one," you sighed from the stool. 

He pulled out another. "No, that's for a different night.”

Then another. “No, I literally wore that two days ago. Do you even pay attention to me?"

Rafe let out a loud groan, turning around with a pair of hangers in his hands. "Angel... just close your eyes. Let me just pick something out for you. Trust me."

You laughed, closing your eyes as you heard the rustle of fabric, and when he told you to open them, he was holding up a gorge dress that you had forgotten you even brought with you.

"Oh my god," you smiled, standing up to inspect it with a bright smile on your face. "I love it. I forgot I had this."

Rafe smirked, looking proud of himself. "Yeah. And I have a shirt that matches."

You stepped up into his space, looking up into his blue eyes, a soft smile on your lips. "Aw, look at us. We are so domestic, I love this."

Rafe smirked, dipping down to plant a kiss on your lips before pulling back, dismissing himself. "Alright. I'm gonna go and change."

Ten minutes later, you found your way to the bedroom where Rafe was buttoning up his shirt, fully dressed and styled, looking handsome in his matching shirt. 

The other couples were scattered all over the villa, dancing and practicing lyrics.

Rafe watched you approach in the mirror, a slight smirk on his face. "Listen... I'm not much of a singer or a dancer. I think that's a surprise to absolutely nobody."

You smiled, wrapping your arms around his waist from behind, face peeking from behind his broad back in the mirror. "Well... will you do it for me?"

Rafe’s eyes softened, turning, arms wrapping around your waist. "I’d do anything for you."

"Aw, that’s sweet," you teased, a grin hitting your lips. "You’re such a simp."

"Don't call me that," Rafe grumbled, though he was smiling. “I haven’t heard that word in years. So, who’s the cornball now?”

You just shrugged. "It was either that or Sour Patch Kid," you laughed.

Rafe chuckled, confused. "Why a Sour Patch Kid?"

"Because sometimes you’re sour," you explained, tapping his nose. "But most of the time you’re sweet. Though, you're only ever sweet once someone successfully gets past the sour part."

Rafe let out a chuckle, his hands tightening on your waist as he looked down at you. “…You look amazing. Seriously."

"I know," you smirked playfully. "You've told me like thirty times today."

"Oh, well, if that's the case, then I can just stop—“

"No, keep going!" you giggled, pulling him back. "I love the glaze."

Rafe stopped moving, face twisting in genuine confusion. "Glaze? Glazed what?” He asked, raising one eyebrow. “What the hell’re you talkin’ about?"

You burst out laughing, suddenly remembering that Rafe was a bit older than you, and sometimes your slang just didn’t align with his. "You know how you ‘glaze’ people? Like, complimenting them?"

“…I have no idea what you're talking about," he rolled his eyes.

"You’re literally an old man," you laughed, shaking your head.

"Shut up," he chuckled. 

"Okay, seriously though,” you started. “What song are we singing? What are you thinking? Do we go super lovey-dovey, or do we go sexy…?"

"Whatever is the least embarrassing for me," Rafe said firmly. "Do not have me up there singing Hamilton or some shit."

You pouted. "Well, there goes my genius idea." You thought for a second. "Okay... have you ever seen the movie Grease?"

A sudden wave of nostalgia washed over Rafe’s face, a faraway, quiet smile playing on his lips. "Yeah... actually, I have.” He said, voice nearly a whisper. “My mom used to love it."

"Oh, really?" you said, voice softening. "That's surprising. That's…really sweet, actually. Well, what's your favorite song off it?"

"None. I hate them all."

You burst out laughing. "What?"

"I'm serious," Rafe chuckled. "I only ever watched it because it made my mom happy. Especially after she'd get into these huge arguments with my dad. I remember being in elementary school, and it would be the day after they had some fight... and I'd wake up to the sound of Grease playing on the TV, the smell of bacon, and her cleaning up in the kitchen. I guess something about that movie just comforted her."

"Oh..." you whispered, amusement fading. "That's so sad. I'm sorry."

Rafe quickly waved his hand. "No, it's fine. It's actually one of the better memories I have of her, honestly. Because I just remember seeing her look so calm and at peace with herself in those moments when my dad wasn't around.” He shrugged boyishly. “She was just very…domestic and in her element. I miss it." He smirked, adding, "But I still hate all the songs. I used to make fun of her for it."

You smiled warmly. "Okay, no Grease then. Have you ever seen Hairspray?"

Rafe let out a loud groan, throwing his head back. "What is up with you and these musicals?"

"I’m a geek, haven't you noticed by now?" you laughed.

"I've noticed, yes," Rafe smirked. "And yes, I've seen it. What song?"

"Without Love," you suggested.

Rafe shook his head. "Mmm... not really a fan."

You popped your hip, fixing him with a pointed, sassy look. "Are you going to disagree with every idea I throw out?"

Rafe shrugged his shoulders, a cocky smirk plastered on his lips. "Probably."

"Fine. I'll just choose the song by myself then," you said sardonically.

"Fine by me," Rafe grinned. "I'll do whatever you tell me to."

You flashed him a flirty wink. "Oh, don't tempt me with a good time, Cameron." You tapped your chin, thinking hard, while Rafe just watched you, a fond expression on his face as he watched you ponder. "Okay... how do you feel about Nelly Furtado?"

Rafe shrugged. "Definitely not my typical type of music, but... I've heard some good stuff."

"How do you feel about the song Promiscuous?" you asked, raising an eyebrow.

Rafe’s eyes lit up, a small smile spreading across his face. "That’s… a much better recommendation."

"Yeah?” you perked up. "Okay, great! But what’s our choreography? We have to blow everyone else out of the water. I get quite competitive."

Rafe let out a rough laugh. "I hate to break it to you, baby, but you're partnered with me. So I don't think we're clutching first place this time."

"Oh, whatever," you waved off.

"How do we even ‘rehearse’ for a song like this?" Rafe asked, looking lost. "Do we just... start krumping or something?"

You froze, your eyes going wide. "Oh, yes, please. Please let me see Rafe Cameron krump right now."

And to your own surprise, and amusement, Rafe actually attempted it, throwing his arms around in a chaotic, hilariously aggressive motion for two seconds. You burst into hysterical laughter, covering your eyes. "Oh my god, stop! Please, please stop!"

"Oh, really?" Rafe laughed, stopping his horrific movements, stepping into your space. "Well, let me see what you've got then."

You giggled, locking into memory, and began to hum the song, executing the choreography from the Just Dance version of Promiscuous, trying to fight a smile as you did so.

Rafe watched you, nodding his head with a slightly impressed smirk. "That's... actually not bad at all. You look like you actually know what you're doing."

"I use to dance my ass off when I was little." you said enthusiastically, your eyes shining. "I have every single Just Dance game at home. Come here, let me teach you the steps."

Rafe immediately backed off, shaking his head. "No, no. I'm good."

"Please, Rafe. For me?" you pleaded, eyeing him in a way that made it hard to say no.

Rafe let out a long sigh. "Fine."

And, for the next half hour, you stood side-by-side, carefully teaching him the routine. To your shock, Rafe actually got it down easily. He was surprisingly coordinated.

"Oh my god," you gasped when you finished the last run-through. "You actually look so good! You look coordinated and not like a baby deer on ice." You smiled, clapping your hands.

Rafe chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck, his. "Don't lie to me. I look crazy."

"No, you actually dance like you know how now!" you insisted, nudging him.

Confessional : Rafe & You “I’m literally so excited for tonight,” you said, bouncing up and down. “Nobody else stands a chance.” Rafe rolled his eyes, but he couldn't keep that soft smirk off his face if he tried. “Don’t start getting super competitive now. I only agreed to do this whole dance routine because you begged me.” “Hey!” You nudged his shoulder with yours, turning to glare at him playfully. “You liked the song choice!” “It’s a…decent track,” Rafe said, shaking his head and looking away with a chuckle, crossing his arms tighter over his chest. “And look, I’m only doing the moves because if I didn’t, she was gonna try and force me to do Hamilton or some other weird musical.” “Mind you, he picked up the whole dance routine in like twenty minutes. He tries to act all tough and mean, but deep down he’s literally just a big softie.” You added, pointing at him with a proud grin. Rafe let out a quiet scoff, looking down at his shoes for a second before glancing back at you sideways, his smirk widening. “Whatever you say, angel. Just…don't make me look ridiculous out there tonight, alright?” “No promises,” you giggled, turning back to the camera with the biggest smile on your face.

THE yard had been turned into a vibrant, neon blue outdoor karaoke stage.

There were two sets of large bleachers where you all divided yourselves, sitting down in your couples. In the center of the yard stood a prop shower structure that served as the main stage, the contest being sponsored by CeraVe.

As everyone settled in,  Ariana made her grand entrance. She looked absolutely stunning, wearing a sharp black blazer dress, a pair of chic glasses, and a bold red lipstick.

"Welcome, Islanders, to the Love Island Couples Karaoke Contest!" Ariana announced, all of you erupting into loud applause as she came to a stop. "Tonight, you and your partners will be taking center stage to see which duo can truly steal the show. Once everyone has performed, you will deliberate in your couples and rank the performances from best to worst, taking charisma, showmanship, and chemistry into account.” She explained. “The couple with the most points will be crowned the King and Queen of Love Island Karaoke!” Ariana exclaimed, all of you cheering even louder. “So... let's get singing!"

Everyone clapped as Ariana looked at all of the couples. "Up first tonight... JJ and Talia!"

The crowd cheered as JJ and Talia skipped up to the prop shower stage. And the second the beat dropped, all of you went wild, recognizing the rhythm of What's My Name by Rihanna and Drake.

Their performance was charismatic, a cool, retro 90s music video vibe. Talia posed as the confident, sassy young girl, while JJ locked into character as the cocky guy trying to pursue her. And to everyone’s surprise, Talia's singing voice was actually good, and JJ's rap flow wasn't half bad either as he sang Drake’s verse— 

“I heard you good with them soft lips. Yeah, you know, word of mouth. The square root of sixty-nine is eight somethin', right? 'Cause I've been tryna work it out, ohhh. Good weed, white wine, uh, I come alive in the night time, yeah. Okay, away we go. Only thing we have on is the radiooo-oh. Let it play, say you gotta leave, but I know you wanna stay. You just waitin' on the traffic jam to finish, girl, the things that we could do in twenty minutes, girl…”

It was a fun, flirty, teenage-love kind of performance that had everyone hooting from the bleachers. When they finished, JJ almost tripped over his own feet coming down from the stage, making everyone laugh.

Confessional : JJ & Talia "We definitely set the bar high," JJ bragged, high fiving Talia.  "We did fucking amazing." She emphasized to the camera.

Ariana smiled as they sat down, their round of applause ending. "Next up... Sarah and Theo!"

The couple took the stage, their song choice being Best Mistake by Ariana Grande and Big Sean. It was much slower, more romantic, giving Theo the opportunity to show off his charm, while Sarah put in a lot of her more confident nature. While Sarah's singing voice was pretty alright, Theo's singing voice was... well, it was a bit off-key, which turned their performance into something more comical rather than sexy. 

But they had amazing chemistry, looking deeply into each other's eyes the whole time. Right at the very final note of the song—“Mmm, I'll be savin' my love for you, for you”—Theo grabbed Sarah, dipping her low over his knee, and planted a dramatic kiss on her lips, making the crowd scream and shout.

Confessional : Sarah & Theo Sarah blushed while Theo smirked. "She has a very nice voice," Theo told the camera. "And very pretty eyes to look into."

Ariana clapped, calling Rima and Justin up to the stage next.

The pair sang All the Stars by SZA and Kendrick Lamar, and their performance was captivating—Rima was bossy and confident by nature, and her singing voice was surprisingly stunning as Justin carried himself with immense confidence, his rap voice hitting the flow. Right when the chorus hit—"This might be the night that my dreams might let me know, all the stars are closer"—they broke into a smoothly choreographed, tight two person salsa-style dance. Justin spun Rima around the stage, Rima dancing around him, making it look like he was the sun and she was a planet orbiting his solar system. It was captivating and cute, and they looked in love.

Confessional : Rima & Justin “Honestly, that was so nostalgic for us,” Rima laughed, leaning into Justin on the couch. “We sang that exact same song at a karaoke bar back home, years ago.” “Oh man, don’t even bring that up,” Justin chuckled, shaking his head. “We were so wasted that night. Like, drunk off our asses.” “We really were!” Rima agreed, laughing. “I kept missing half the lyrics on the monitor, and you were just screaming Kendrick’s part into the microphone.” “Hey, the crowd was hyped though,” Justin joked, nudging her. “But yeah, tonight was definitely a million times better. At least we were actually sober and could hear ourselves.” “For sure,” Rima smiled, looking at the camera. “We actually sounded like a real duet tonight instead of a hot mess.”

Ariana smiled, looking up at the bleachers. "Alright... next up, let's bring up Rafe and Y/N!"

The second your names were called, nervousness hit your stomach. Your hands shook slightly as you stood up from the bleachers, but Rafe caught your hand, his palm squeezing yours tightly as he guided you down. 

You let out a breath, a wide smile breaking across your face as you stepped onto the stage.

The second the track started and the iconic, thumping beat of Promiscuous by Nelly Furtado and Timbaland echoed across the yard, the islanders went wild. JJ stood up on his seat, shouting, "Oh, let's go! This is the one!"

The track rolled, your voice traveling through the mic—"Am I throwing you off?"—you turned your body toward Rafe, pointing a finger at his chest, raising a sassy eyebrow.

Rafe looked straight into your eyes, locking into character, and delivered his line with a smirk, "Nope."

"Didn't think so."

The crowd screamed. Rafe’s nervous smirk turning into something confident as he took over Timbaland's opening lyrics, his deep voice hitting the beat perfectly—"How you doing, young lady? The feelin’ that you're givin’ really drives me crazy. You're dope, have a player ‘bout to choke. I was at a loss for words last time that we spoke."

As the song continued, you were shocked by how good he actually sounded. Rafe didn't have a professional singing voice, of course, but the natural, deep register of his voice complimented the low, talking-on-a-beat flow that Timbaland carried on the original track.

The song rolled into the verse, and you stepped into his space, singing up into his face. You were standing toe-to-toe with him, eyes locked. Rafe stepped even closer, deep voice dropping as he sang his next lines after you.

"You expect me to just let you hit it, but will you still respect me if you get it?"

"All I can do is try, give me one chance. What's the problem? I don't see no ring on your hand. I'll be the first to admit it, I'm curious about you, you seem so innocent."

Right as he said the word ‘innocent’, Rafe reached out, placing a single finger right underneath your chin, tilting your head up to force you to look at him, a beautiful smirk spreading across his face.

The other islanders went berserk, Cleo shouting, "Oh my god, yes!"

You smirked right back, keeping your eyes locked onto his lips as you sang the next part."—You want to get in my world, get lost in it. Boy, I'm tired of running, let's walk for a minute." You did a cute, theatrical move, turning your back to him and using one finger behind your shoulder to playfully beckon him behind you, walking him across the stage like a puppy on a leash. Rafe followed you willingly, a grin on his face.

Right as the chorus rolled in, you both moved to the center of the stage and without a single mistake, you both switched into the routine you’d practiced in the room, moving in sync. Rafe had a genuine smile on his face, completely out of his comfort zone but enjoying every second of it with you, unbothered by how stupid he might look. 

All he cared about was the smile on your face.

The next part of the song was sexy as you channeled the energy of a confident, untouchable woman, while Rafe played the role of a pleading, desperate man, but he looked sexy as hell doing it. You stepped in front of him, singing sardonically—"Roses are red, some diamonds are blue, chivalry is dead, but you're still kind of cute."

As you delivered the line, you popped up onto your tippy-toes, reaching up and grabbing Rafe firmly by both sides of his jaw with your hand, playfully shaking his face back and forth like an affectionate grandma would do to an adorable little grandkid. Rafe’s cheeks went crimson, blush breaking through his skin as the islanders howled with laughter.

Rafe immediately took over his next line, voice flirtatious—"Hey, I can't keep my mind off you. Where you at? Do you mind if I come through?"—As he started the lyric, he gently took your hands off his face, using one finger to playfully push your body a few inches away. You locked eyes with him again, executing the sexiest move of the entire performance as you sang.

"I'm out of this world, come with me to my planet. Get you on my level, do you think that you can handle it?"

You took one of his large hands while facing him, spun around, turning your back to his chest so that his hand was resting flat against your upper chest. Then, slowly, you shimmy your hips all the way down his body, grinding your backside against his front, dragging his hand down the entire length of your body before popping back up and spinning around to face him again.

Rafe’s eyes went dark as he stepped forward, taking over his next line.

"They call me Thomas, last name Crown. Recognize game, Imma lay mines down."

And during it, Rafe made a shocking move. He reached forward, his hands catching your waist, and gently bent your body over in front of him so your backside was directly against him. He pressed his hips firmly into yours, pulling off a dry-hump gesture, smacking your ass with a sweeping hand gesture that went back and forth.

The islanders were literally screaming at this point, standing up from the bleachers.

You popped right back up from the half-bent position, a confident smirk on your lips, singing.

"I'm a big girl, I can handle myself, but if I get lonely, I might need your help."

You gently pushed a finger right into the center of his chest, walking him backward across the stage. As he moved backward, your other hand trailed down the length of his chest, stopping at the hem of his jeans, sliding a finger into his waistband. Before he could react, your hand popped back up, grabbing a fistful of his shirt to pull his tall body down to your level.

"Pay attention to me, I don't talk for my health."

Now, your noses were almost touching, breaths mingling. Rafe looked way too happy to be locked in your face like this as he sang his line.

"I want you on my team."

You smirked, slowly raking your eyes up and down his entire body.

"So does everybody else."

The track continued, and your performance went on before you and Rafe sang your last lines and the music cut out, the performance ending right there. The islanders stood, a deafening chorus of whoops, cheers, whistles, and applause. 

Confessional : Rafe & You Rafe laughed, shaking his head. "Honestly... that is probably the most fun I have ever had doing something so completely corny in my entire life." You smiled wide, turning to him. "So you'd actually do it again? Like, when we get out of here?" "Mmm….I'll think about it,"

You squealed, throwing your arms around him ,planting kisses all over his cheek with so much force that you both lost your balance, falling out of the frame and disappearing from the confessional camera's view in a tangle of laughter.

Ariana clapped, her eyes shining with amusement. "Alright, what a performance!” She nodded. “And for our last couple of the night, Cleo and Pope!"

And if the islanders had gone wild for you and Rafe, they went hard when the old-school beat of Finesse by Bruno Mars and Cardi B started playing over the speakers.

Cleo and Pope walked out with an unmatched confidence, and to the shock of everyone in the villa, their singing voices were amazing—nobody had any idea that either of them could sing to this level, especially Pope, who hit most of the vocal runs with ease.

Cleo started it off, owning Cardi B's opening rap verse fiercely as she trailed Pope around the stage, dragging him by his shirt.

"It's my big Bronx boogie got all them girls shook, my big fat ass got all them boys hooked. Went from dollar bills now we popping rubber bands, Bruno sang to me while I do my money dance like—"

"Ayy!" All of you in the crowd finished the lyrics right on cue. 

Pope took over Bruno’s verse, his vocals smooth.

"When I walk in with you, I watch the whole room change. Baby, that's what you do. No, my baby don't play. Blame it on the confidence or blame it on your measurements. Shut the shit down on sight. That's right."

Their chemistry was sight to behold—they were all over each other, grinding, spinning, checking every box of a romantic, sexy performance as you all sang along with the chorus, shouting.

Near the end of the song, Pope spun Cleo across the stage like a ballroom dancer as he hit the lyric, "Fellas, grab your ladies if your lady fine," and slid straight across the stage floor onto his knees right in front of her.

"Oh my fucking god!" Sarah screamed from the crowd. 

Kneeling in front of her, Pope looked up into Cleo's eyes, singing, "Tell her she's the one, she's the one for life." He stood up, gently caressing her face as Cleo trailed her hands down his arms, both of them hitting the harmony. Cleo got the crowd even more hyped up as she sang the final verse, and when the song ended, they received the biggest round of applause of the entire night, everyone yelling that they had won for sure.

Confessional : Cleo & Pope "We ate that shit down. I knew we weren't going to disappoint." Cleo celebrated. Pope laughed, rubbing his neck. "I hope so, I didn’t know if you were serious about beating my ass if I messed up." "Oh, I was," Cleo laughed. "We had to win. There was no other option."

Ariana stood back in the center of the stage as Cleo and Pope took their seats, now holding two glittering gold crowns in her hands. "Islanders, you all did absolutely amazing tonight. Some performances hit all the right notes... and others will be remembered for entirely different reasons." She chuckled. "But now... it's time to crown your Karaoke King and Queen. In your couples, you must rank the other pairs from best to worst. You will award four points to your top choice, down to one point for the couple who came up short.” She instructed you all, all of you pulling your phones out. “Grab your phones and make your decisions!"

You and Rafe huddled together on the bleachers, whispering quietly over your phone screen.

"I think we can agree on the top spot," you whispered. "It’s a no-brainer."

"Yeah," Rafe agreed. "Cleo and Pope got first, for sure." You tapped the screen, awarding the 4 points to Cleo and Pope.

"For second place though, I’m thinkin’ we give it to JJ and Talia," Rafe continued. "I was impressed by how well JJ could actually rap. Don’t tell him I said that.." You nodded, laughing and locking in 3 points for JJ and Talia.

"Now, between Sarah and Theo, and Rima and Justin..." you pondered, biting your lip. "I have to admit Rima and Justin had a lot of chemistry, and plus, Rima's voice was incredible. And I think the song they chose was perfect for them, I can’t lie."

"Yeah," Rafe said. "I’m cool with that." And so you locked in 2 points for Rima and Justin, leaving 1 point for Sarah and Theo in last place.

A minute or so after all the votes were cast, Ariana smiled widely at the group. "Islanders, the results are officially in.” She started. “In last place... Sarah and Theo!"

The crowd laughed as Sarah pouted playfully, shouting, "Hey, I didn't know the vibe we were going for! I'm sorry if it was just too lovey-dovey for all of you!". Though, they accepted their place.

"In fourth place," Ariana continued, "Rima and Justin!" 

Rima laughed, yelling, "Damn, y'all!" She playfully scolded, still accepting the round of applause.

"In third place... JJ and Talia!" J

J pumped his fist, making a joke about how he was officially the best rapper in the villa.

"Which means," Ariana beamed, "In second place... Rafe and Y/N, making our Love Island Karaoke King and Queen... Cleo and Pope!"

The yard erupted into cheers and applause as Cleo and Pope got up and walked to the stage to receive their crowns, placing them on their heads and sharing a passionate kiss in front of everyone.

When Ariana asked how they felt, Cleo laughed into the microphone. "I just really want to thank all the kids at the orphanage I work at back home for making me sing them lullabies. I think that's the only thing that kept my vocals intact."

Pope smiled warmly. "And I just want to thank my pops for always playing music in the shop while we worked."

Ariana congratulated them one last time, before bidding the villa farewell as she exited into the night. 

As the islanders walked back into the main villa, Cleo was lifted into Pope's arms in a celebratory motion, everyone loudly singing the chorus of Finesse all the way through the glass doors.

"Yeah, we got it going on, got it going on, don't it feel so good to be us, ayy!"

LATE that night, the villa had quieted down. Most of the islanders were already in the bedroom getting comfortable. 

You stepped out of the glam room, having just finished washing your face and doing your nightly routine, and right at the same second, Rafe stepped out of the adjacent bathroom.

You both froze, looking at each other in the dim hallway, speaking in unison. 

"Oh, there you are. Where you goin’?"

You both burst into a soft laugh at the action.

"I was just going downstairs, got kind of hungry," you said first, smiling up at him.

"That's funny. I was about to do the same thing."

You flashed him a smile, wrapping your fingers around his hand. "Well... come with me then, handsome."

Rafe followed closely behind you down the stairs. "You might not want to speak to me like that right now, angel. My three AM demon is rapidly approaching."

You burst out laughing, throwing your head back before turning around to look at him as you reached the bottom of the stairs. "Oh, please. Before today, you didn't even know what 'glazing' meant. How do you suddenly know about a ‘three AM demon’?"

Rafe scoffed, an arrogant smirk pulling at his lips. "I am not old. And if that's the case... then you like old-man dick."

You gasped, playfully hitting him in the center of his chest. "Hey!," you laughed, looking around as if someone was around to hear.

You both reached the outdoor kitchen, and you sighed, looking around the counters. "Ugh, now that I'm actually down here, I don't even know what I want.” You let your shoulders fall. “Like, I don't know if I'm hungry or just thirsty."

Rafe slid behind the counter, taking charge. "Well... do you want me to make you somethin’?"

"Make me what?" you asked, looking at the bare fridge. "There's nothing to make. We live off of...smoothies and eggs."

"Well... I can make you a grilled cheese," Rafe offered.

"That…actually sounds amazing right now. Thank you."

Rafe hummed, gathering the bread, butter, and cheese. But before he even started cooking, he poured you a glass of juice, sliding it across the counter to hold you over. You smiled, deeply touched by how considerate he always was with you.

You sat down on one of the high stools, resting your chin in your hands as you watched him cook. Rafe was shirtless, wearing nothing but a pair of loose cotton sleep shorts. From behind, his back looked incredibly muscular, and you could see his tattoos clearly now—he didn't have a lot of them, just a few small, elegant script tattoos and roman numerals scattered along his arms.

Affection washed over you, and without even thinking about it, you softly called his name. "Rafe?"

"Hmm?" he murmured, not turning away from the stove.

"Would you ever get my name tattooed on you?" you asked quietly, a hazy smile on your lips.

"Yeah,"

He said it so casually that it threw you off guard. You blinked, stunned. "...Are you joking?"

Rafe slowly turned over his shoulder, looking back at you with a serious expression. "No. Why would I be joking?"

"I don't know," you stammered, suddenly flustered. "That just seems like something a lot of people would be against. Like... what if we break up?"

Rafe scoffed, shrugging and turning back to flip the sandwich in the pan. "We won’t."

You blushed, taking a sip of your juice to hide your smile. "Yeah, well... I guess that's a dumb question anyway, considering we aren't even…really together..."

Rafe suddenly stopped what he was doing. “Yet.” he corrected, turning around and leaning his hips against the kitchen counter. "We will be soon. Just give me a little bit of time, angel. I'm plannin' it."

Your cheeks burned hotter, a radiant smile breaking across your face. "Yeah... ‘course. I trust you."

Rafe’s eyes locked onto yours, a playful glint in them. "Would you get my name tattooed on you? If I asked?"

"...Yeah," you shrugged, smiling. "But... I'd probably start with just an initial first."

Rafe raised an eyebrow, amused. "Why just an initial?"

"Because," you teased, raising your glass. "You can never fully trust a man." You joked.

Rafe let out a dramatic gasp, looking offended. "Ouch. Even me?"

"I trust you... for now," you joked, winking at him. You quickly changed the subject, taking another sip of juice. "...Do you remember how we were talking about Family Day earlier?"

"Mhm," Rafe hummed, turning back to check the sandwich. "Why?"

"Nothing, I was just wondering... do you think your sisters will …like me?" you asked softly, looking up at him.

Rafe’s eyes softened as he turned off the stove, plating the sandwich, turning to you. "I think they'll love you.” He said with an air of certainty. “Sarah, the older one, is obsessed with fashion and clothes and shit, so you two will get along. And... you have this habit of talking a lot and rambling on about things when you get distracted, and you're a bit of a geek... so I know for a fact you'll get along with Wheezie. She's the same way." He smiled to himself, sliding the plate over to you before rounding the island to sit next to you.

You chuckled, taking a bite of the sandwich. "‘Wheezie’ still kills me. It’s cute though, unique."

Rafe snorted, a rich laugh escaping him. "Yeah, well. Louise is a bit much for a kid. What about you? Who's comin’ for you?"

You sighed softly, looking down. "I'm really hoping my friends make it down. It’s funny, my friend Dean, he reminds me so much of JJ. And my other best friend, Marlowe—I hope she can make it."

Rafe listened, then looked down at you, his voice holding that rare touch of vulnerability. "...Do you think your friends will like me?"

You admired him in that moment—looking so concerned about what your friends would think of him. You smiled, reaching out to wrap your hand around his.

"I think they'll love you, actually," you said softly. "They aren't super guarded people. They'll like you as long as you're just yourself and don't try to put on that tough-guy act you always do."

Rafe scoffed, an amused smirk instantly returning to his face as he shook his head. "What tough-guy act? I don't have an act."

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever, Cameron," you laughed, taking another bite of your food. "You know exactly what I mean."

"Whatever. Just eat your grilled cheese," Rafe chuckled softly, his eyes full of pure affection as he watched you eat. 

He returned to the stove and finished making his own sandwich, and you spent the next twenty minutes just sitting together in the quiet dark of the kitchen, talking about nothing, getting to know every piece of each other's lives, and giggling softly into the night before walking upstairs, hand-in-hand, to fall asleep in each other's arms.

next chapter>

this is half-assed proofread, i aint even put my glasses on so sorry if this was a hard read grammar-wise :/ goodnight :p