The Most Dramatic Season Ever - Week 5
Summary: It’s your time now! You are ABC’s new Bachelorette and this is your journey! All these men (including our fav BoRhap boys and then some) are competing for your heart! Will you find love? Will you get engaged at the end? Or will you end up heartbroken? Find out, on the most dramatic season ever!
Word Count: 8.3k
Tag List: @psychosupernatural, @someone-get-a-medic, @bensrhapsody, @deakyclicks, @crazylittlethingcalledobsession, @minigranger, @crazyweirdocalledfriday, @the-moving-finger-writes, @assembledherethevolunteers, @rose-writes-prose, @queenlover05, @moon-stars-soul, @danadeacon, @deacyblues, @thesundrop, @cupidben, @lostlittlenerd, @delilahmay39, @timmvrphy, @queenmylovely, @loveandbeloved29, @free-pool-trash, @fairestkillerqueenofall, @local-troubled-writer, @babyalienfairy, @littlecarowrites, @allthethingsicant, @im-an-adult-ish, @mirkwoodshewolf, @squishy-gay-astronaut, @sherlollydramoine, @butlegendsneverdie, @dogmom2014, @rocketrhap917
If you’d like to be added, let me know!
A/N: Oh, the drama continues. This chapter is emotional. omg
Warning(s): None!
Night 1 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4
Week 5 here we go!!!
“W...what are you doing here?” you stammered, shock keeping you frozen to the spot.
“Can I come in?” he asked. “So we can talk?”
“Yeah, okay,” you agreed, forcing yourself to move at last.
You stepped out of the way and allowed him into your room. You followed him to the couch and he took a seat, but you couldn’t. Now that you were moving, you didn’t want to stop. You began pacing back and forth in front of the coffee table.
“How are you?” he asked.
You stopped in your tracks and faced him. “I’m doing well. What are you doing here?”
“I had to see you,” he said. “I’ve missed you so much and I wanted to tell you before you maybe got swept up in…”
“In what?” you pressed.
“In all this,” he said. “In someone else.”
Jamie Bell was an actor and dancer. While Peter’s season was airing, he had gotten in touch with you via social media. He was in LA, so you went out on a few dates with him. You thought things were going well, and that there was real potential there. But before he returned to England, he broke it off. He didn’t know when he would be coming back to the states, and he didn’t really believe in long distance relationships. A month later, you got the call from Chris Harrison with the offer to be the Bachelorette. Since you still wanted to find your partner, you accepted.
As you looked at Jamie now, those old feelings started to return to you. You were reminded harshly of his charm and all the fun you had together.
“That’s all you wanted to tell me?” you questioned. “That you missed me?”
Despite the good memories, he had really hurt you. You were skeptical of his being here now.
“I can’t stop thinking about you,” he said. “Ever since I left.”
“Jamie, that was months ago,” you reminded him. “You had plenty of time to contact me before I started this.”
“I didn’t want to stand in your way,” he said. “You know I’ve only ever wanted for you to be happy.”
You frowned. “No, I don’t think I do. If you really wanted me to be happy, you would have given us a shot when we had one. Instead of running away.”
You wanted to add “like a coward” to the end of that, but you held your tongue. He didn’t deserve any harsh words, really, since he had done the right thing if he wasn’t feeling the relationship. You wanted to hear him out.
“I’m sorry I hurt you,” he said. “But at the time, I really wasn’t sure about us. It took being away from you for me to realize that I’d made a huge mistake.”
You took a deep breath and looked away from him, heart aching.
“How come you didn’t reach out?” you asked.
“Like I said, I didn’t want to get in the way if doing this was what you really wanted,” he told you. “But I heard you were here in London and I just had to see you. And take my chance.”
He stood up and crossed the room to you. He placed a hands on your arms. You remembered his touch as if it were yesterday.
“You can’t deny that we had something great,” he said. “Maybe it’s still there.”
“What would you have me do?” you demanded, wrenching free of him and stepping back. “Leave all of this behind? I’ve made really strong connections. I’m falling in love, Jamie. You want me to just throw it all away?”
“No, that’s not what I want,” he said. “I want you to give me a chance too.”
You blinked, stunned.
“What, you mean come and join the house?” you asked. “With the other guys?”
He nodded. “That’s exactly what I mean.”
You sighed, turned away, and went to the window, looking out at the city, hoping it would bring you some clarity. You liked Jamie, and you missed him too, but the guys who were here meant so much to you. To bring in another person when you were already getting down to the wire would really throw things off.
“I dunno if that’s a good idea,” you said. “This is almost over. Hometowns are next week. I don’t know if I could do this to them and then meet their families.”
You heard him huff behind you, so you turned around again, looking at him expectantly.
“Shouldn’t you follow your own heart?” he said. “This is about you, isn’t it?”
“It is,” you said. “But I also care about these men, and I don’t want to hurt them. Like I said, I’m falling in love. As great a time as we had, I didn’t get there with you before you left.”
“But we have another chance now,” he insisted. “You just have to say yes.”
“I don’t know if I want to,” you replied.
His hopeful expression broke, shifting into hurt.
“I’m sorry,” you said. “But I can’t see myself getting there with you now. Not when I’m so far along with these guys. I told them when we started I knew my husband was among them. And that’s still true. I know that one of them is my person.”
He inhaled deeply, absorbing this blow. You hated to hurt him. But you weren’t sure about him, and at this point, you needed to be sure of anyone you were going to keep around. That security was in the seven men you still had.
“I appreciate you taking a shot,” you said. “But I think you were right back then when you left. We should say goodbye.”
“That’s really how you feel?” he asked.
You met his gaze.
“That’s really how I feel,” you said. “I’ll walk you to the door.”
You went to the door, passing him and allowing him to follow you. He stopped you as you reached for the handle.
“Y/N,” he said.
You looked at him.
“I hope you have a wonderful life.”
You smiled. “Thanks, Jamie. You too.”
He hugged you for a brief moment before leaving. You closed the door behind him, feeling like that door was closing on your heart. When you and Jamie dated, you thought you could fall in love with him. But since you met the men on your season now, you realized that Jamie was not it. It was time to move on.
First, you had to clarify this to the men.
You grabbed your room key and headed out. It made you nervous to confess something like this to them, but you didn’t want them to leave here and start reading about rumors and then doubt you. It would be better to hear exactly what happened, directly from you.
The men’s suite was one floor above yours. Your hands shook a little as you approached the door. Would they really understand? Would they now doubt your reasons for coming on this journey? You just had to tell them and find out.
You knocked on the door.
Taron answered and was immediately thrilled to see you. His wide smile made you return with one, and he pulled you in for a hug before stepping aside and letting you walk in.
“What’s brought you here?” he asked sweetly.
“Something I wanted to discuss with all of you,” you said.
The rest of them were already in the sitting area of the suite. You took a seat on the couch between Rami and Joe.
“What’s up, Y/N?” Joe wondered.
“So, someone was just here,” you said. “Someone from my past.”
They all exchanged worried glances as you took another deep breath. Then you launched into the story. You told them how you met Jamie, the extent of the relationship, how it ended, and what he had asked of you just minutes ago. You watched as their faces went from surprised, to at ease, to shock again.
“I told him no,” you said, and relief took them. “Whatever was between us doesn’t compare to what I have with each of you, and I don’t think that in the time we have left that it could get there. So I sent him away.”
“You didn’t want to let him stay?” Gwilym asked. “Not even a little bit?”
“I’m gonna be honest, part of me did want to say yes,” you said. “But I know what I have here, and how I’m feeling about each of you. It wouldn’t be worth it to bring him on just to send him home at the end of the week. This - what I have with the people in this room - is where the potential is for me. I just wanted to be totally honest with you guys.”
“We appreciate it,” Rami said.
“I also didn’t want gossip magazines or anything like that getting a hold of even a scrap of this and blowing it way out of proportion,” you said. “These are the facts. And I hope you all trust me.”
“Of course we do,” said Ben. “Thanks for doing this.”
“Thank you all for being so understanding and lovely,” you said. “But now, I’ve got to get some sleep. It’s been a long, emotional day, and I’m ready to get to Ireland.”
They all agreed and got up to walk you to the door. You hugged each of them before leaving, a great weight lifted from your heart. You truly had a wonderful group of men here who were kind and genuine. This would ultimately make your decisions going forward more difficult. But for now, it made you happy.
When you landed in Ireland, your heart was beginning to sink. This was a big week. This was the week you would decide who would get hometown dates. You had to decide who’s connections were strong enough to want to meet their families. Three men - men you cared about so dearly - would be going home.
The men were equally anxious. They knew the weight of the week ahead. They also had to decide if they wanted you to meet their families. How strongly were they feeling for you? Could they really see themselves proposing at the end of this?
You were all staying at Ballyseede Castle. The guys had a few rooms to themselves and you had a separate room, on the other side of the building. You had the first date after your arrival there, and you were excited about it. But it was time to make a big decision. This date was make or break.
The first date card arrived, and Taron went to answer the door. When he returned to the guys, they were silent and waiting.
“Rami,” Taron read. “Will we sink or sail? Love, Y/N.”
“Finally,” Rami sighed, taking the card as Taron handed it to him. “I’m ready for a one on one.”
“Are you ready to take her home to your family?” Joe asked.
Rami nodded. “Yeah...yeah, I am. I’m falling for this girl, and I think bringing her home could solidify it for me.”
“Well, I hope it goes well, then,” Joe said with a smile.
They all wished him luck as he went to get ready.
Rami met you at a small dock on Lough Lane, the largest of the Killarney lakes. You beamed at Rami as he jogged up to you, wrapping you up in his arms and hugging you tight. You couldn’t help but giggle as you saw him and hold on for just a moment longer.
“So,” you said as you separated. “We are going on a little boat tour of Lough Lane today. There are tons of places to see along the shore, which are almost all part of Killarney National Park.”
“Sounds great!” he said.
“Awesome, let’s go!”
You took his hand. Together you walked to the little boat that was reserved for you and climbed in. You were in awe of Ireland and its natural beauty, so this was a great way to see some of it. Your guide was a local who knew most of the history, and he explained it to you and Rami as you rode around. It was a beautiful, sunny spring day. The water was shining like glass and the shore was a deep, lush green.
You stopped on a small island in the middle of the lake called Innisfallen. There was an old, crumbling building there. The guide told you this was Innisfallen Abbey. You and Rami clasped hands and went to explore it.
“I love doing stuff like this,” you said. “Seeing some history and all this beauty.”
“Me too,” he agreed. “I’m glad you chose me for this.”
“I’m glad too,” you replied. “I feel really good about us.”
He stepped closer so he could kiss you. You parted, grinning, before walking around some more.
“So, tell me about your family,” you said. “You know getting a rose this week means I’m going to meet them.”
“So you wanna be prepared?” he teased.
“Of course!”
“Well, there’s not much to know, really,” he said. “My parents are incredibly kind people. I’m sure they’ll love you. The trick is impressing my siblings.”
“A sister and a brother, right?” you asked.
“Yep,” he confirmed with a nod. “My sister is older and pretty protective of the both of us. She’s gonna be the tough one.”
“I see,” you said. “Well, I like that she cares about you so much.”
“She really does,” he said. “She’s the best sister in the world, honestly. She was pretty skeptical about this whole thing, but I think once she meets you, she’ll understand.”
“That’s good to hear,” you said. “I love that you’re all so close.”
“You told me that you and your family aren’t,” he said. “Can I ask why?”
You sighed. “Just...they were very conservative and religious. But they’re also really cold people. I felt like I was being controlled, not loved. So when I turned eighteen, I left. We talk every once in a while, but just for holidays and stuff. We don’t really have a relationship at all.”
“I’m sorry,” he said, taking your hand again. “I can’t imagine what that’s like.”
“It’s not easy,” you told him. “For a long time, I felt so alone. Then I met my ex - before Peter, that is - and things got worse.”
“Things got worse with your parents?”
“Just worse in general, including my parents,” you said. “The years I was with him, we didn’t speak at all.”
He let out a low whistle. “That’s tough.”
A beat passed and then he looked at you.
“You’re really strong, you know that?” he said.
“You think so?” you questioned.
Your inability to maintain a relationship with your family always made you feel like there was something wrong with you.
“I know so,” he said. “To get away from your family because you know they’re not good for you, to endure what you endured from your ex, and then to still have the faith in love that you have...I’m kinda blown away right now.”
“Thanks, Rami,” you said quietly. “That really means a lot to me.”
He smiled, which made you smile too.
“I didn’t think I could fall any more in love with you, but here I am,” he said.
You beamed and leaned forward to kiss him.
Shortly after, you rode back to the mainland and disembarked. You thanked your guide before leaving the little harbor. Then you both went to prepare for the evening portion of the date.
Rami: I feel really good about our date today. Opening up with Y/N is as easy as breathing. We have a really natural connection. I do want to introduce her to my family and get a feel for how she’ll fit, but I don’t think it’s gonna be a problem. She fits in with me, anyway.
For the evening, you had the restaurant and bar of the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club. It had a spectacular view of the lake, which looked much darker as the sun went down behind it. You and Rami sat down to dinner and you took a sip of wine.
“Today was a lot of fun,” you said. “I love to travel and explore, so I like that we got to see something different.”
“I’m the same way,” he told you. “I had a great time.”
“Where’s your ideal travel spot?” you asked.
“I would really like to go back to Egypt,” he said. “I’ve only been a few times, and I was pretty young, so I felt like I didn’t fully appreciate it.”
“That would be cool,” you said.
“Where would you want to go?” he asked.
“The top of my list was always London,” you said with a small laugh. “So I’m glad we went there! But after that it was always Tokyo.”
“I’ve never been, but I’ve heard it’s amazing,” he said. “Maybe we can go together sometime.”
“I’d love that,” you said. “I’d love to just travel the world with you.”
“Sounds like a dream,” he replied.
You paused for a moment before continuing.
“So, I kind of just want to check in with you since this is such a big week and I could potentially meet your family,” you said. “How are you feeling?”
He took a sip of his drink.
“Honestly, Y/N, I’m feeling good,” he said. “It’s hard to think about you and the other guys, but I feel great about us. We have a great connection. It’s definitely something I want to keep exploring because I’m falling so hard for you. Nothing would make me happier than taking you home to meet my family.”
You smiled.
“I’m feeling great about us, too,” you told him. “From day one, I feel like we’ve had something really unique and special. I want to know more about how you came to be the person you are. I want to meet your family.”
He grinned at you and you giggled back. He had the cutest, most genuine smile you’d seen in a long time. His eyes shone at you. You picked up the rose.
“Rami,” you said, letting his name linger in your mouth a moment because it felt so nice. “Will you accept this rose and take me home?”
He kissed you so enthusiastically, you laughed into his mouth. His answer was certainly clear to you. Your lips moved together deeply, with a tenderness that made you want to melt into a puddle right in your chair. When you parted to breathe, you pinned the rose to his jacket.
“I’m so happy, Y/N,” he said.
“I’m happy too, Rami,” you replied. “I can’t wait!”
You kissed again, heart soaring.
To celebrate, you went out to the balcony of the golf club and held each other as you looked out over the lake. As a small fireworks show began, you thought about how stoked you were to meet Rami’s family. To know him on a deeper level. Maybe then, you could really fall in love with him.
Back at the castle, in his room, Allen was looking out over the land pensively. Joe, who was his roommate, took notice and stopped what he was doing.
“Allen, you okay?” Joe asked.
“I think so,” Allen replied. “I dunno...being home is sort of putting a lot in perspective for me.”
“You wanna talk about it?” Joe offered.
“I’m okay,” Allen said. “Thanks, though.”
Joe left it alone, but he quickly became concerned. What did that mean?
Allen: Being home in Ireland has just got me thinking about things on a larger scale. Last time I fell in love this quickly, it ended badly. I’m not sure I am in love with Y/N at this point. And any girl I introduce to my family...I want to be in love with her. I want to be sure that she’s the one. And there’s no way to be sure right now because she’s still the Bachelorette, right? I’ve got a lot to think about right now.
Another date card arrived before Rami got home. Gwilym retrieved it and read it aloud.
“Richard,” he read. “Let’s be king and queen of the castle. Love, Y/N.”
“Alright, I can’t wait!” Richard said, taking the card as Gwilym handed it out to him. “I’m ready for that time with her.”
He looked at the card and wondered what it meant. He wasn’t familiar with Killarney at all, so he assumed there was some bit of history to what you would be doing. Maybe even within the castle you were staying in.
When Rami got home, rose on his chest, the mood shifted in the house. That meant there were only three roses left for hometowns. If Richard got one on his date, the odds were even slimmer for the guys on the group date. It hit them suddenly just how serious this was becoming.
The next day, you met Richard at Ross Castle, a fifteenth century tower fortress that overlooked Lough Leane. It was made of grey stones, which stood out among the green backdrop around it.
“Hi!” you greeted Richard as he gathered you up in a hug.
“Hello!” he returned, kissing you softly.
“I’m so glad you’re with me today,” you said. “We’re gonna explore Ross Castle together, so I hope you like history.”
“Sure I do,” he replied.
Taking his hand, you headed inside. It was amazing to see a small building with so much history.
“So, this castle was built by O’Donoghue Mor,” you said. “Legend has it, he lies in slumber deep beneath Lough Leane, and on the first morning of May, he rises out on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. If you see him, you’re blessed with good luck for the rest of your life.”
“Spooky,” Richard said. “Does it cancel out any bad luck? Like, say you walked under a ladder or broke a mirror, are you cured?”
You laughed. “I would hope so!”
He smiled at you. “Who needs luck anyway, when I’ve got you?”
“How sweet,” you said with a blush.
As much fun as you were having with Richard, this still felt too new. You didn’t feel like you had progressed much with him. He was falling behind, and you needed more from him if he was going to get the rose from you.
The whole day was light and cheerful, despite your worries. You just knew you would have to talk to him about it that night. The castle was beautiful, the view of the lake was spectacular, and you were enjoying getting to do this with him.
For the evening, you had a room on the first floor of the castle set up for your dinner date. You walked in together and admired the coziness of it before sitting down at the table. Your stomach turned with nerves as you thought about what you wanted from Richard. What if it was something he wasn’t prepared to give?
“I had a great time today,” he said. “I always have so much fun with you.”
You sighed, setting down your wine glass.
“That’s great, Richard,” you said. “But is that all this is to you? We’re just…having fun together?”
He swallowed, brow furrowing. “Is there something wrong with that?”
That stung. You hated that your reservations were right.
“Yeah, there is,” you said. “This is getting real now. Giving you this rose means I meet your family. I don’t want to do that if you’re not serious about this.”
He took so long to reply you feared for a moment that he wouldn’t. But you needed him to respond to that.
“I don’t know what you want me to say,” he said. “I really like you. I like where this is going. I’d like to keep seeing you.”
You released a slow, deep breath.
“It has to be more than that at this point,” you said. “We’re beyond exploring the relationship. Where do you see us at the end of this?”
His mouth turned down.
“What are you asking me, Y/N?” he asked.
“Can you see yourself committing to me?” you pressed.
“You mean, get down on one knee and propose?” he wondered.
You swallowed thickly.
“Yes,” you said. “Is that where you see this going?”
He heaved a sigh and cut his eyes away from yours. Panic made your heart rate pick up.
“I’m sorry, Y/N,” he said heavily. “But I can’t see it in the short amount of time we have left.” He looked at you again. “I know myself, and I’m not going to be ready to propose.”
You blinked and a tear slid down your cheek.
“I see,” you whispered. “Then...then I’m afraid I can’t give you this rose.”
Silence hung between you for a long moment, the joy of the day long gone.
“Can I walk you out?” you asked.
“Sure,” he replied.
You walked in silence to the van waiting for him. You felt a bit numb and confused. You had been feeling so strongly for him, but he wasn’t going to get there with you. It felt a bit like a waste.
“I really am sorry, Y/N,” he said as you came to a stop together.
“It’s alright,” you said. “Better to tell me now than go further into this with different ideas.”
“You’re sure we can’t keep seeing where this goes?” he wondered.
“No,” you said, shaking your head. “I didn’t come here for a boyfriend. I came for a husband. If you can’t get there, then we have to say goodbye.”
“I understand,” he said solemnly. “I wish you every happiness.”
“I wish the same for you,” you returned.
You shocked yourself at how sure you sounded when inside you were falling apart a little. You and Richard had been going strong. It made your heart ache for it to end this way.
“Goodbye, Y/N,” he said.
You hugged him one last time. “Goodbye, Richard.”
Upon parting, your eyes lingered on each other for a moment longer. Because this was your last time together, each of you were not eager for it to end. But at some point it had to. He was the one who finally conceded and opened the car door. You closed it behind him, letting more tears fall down your face.
“This sucks,” he said to the camera as the van started down the road. “I really thought we had something great. I just wish I could get where she wants. But I can’t and I don’t want to rob her of men that can give her that, you know? I’m just going to miss her a lot.”
You wiped your face, but the tears still fell slowly.
“I hate this,” you said to the camera. “I really didn’t want to say goodbye, but...I can’t just keep him if he’s not in the same place. I know I made the right decision.”
You went back to look out over the water. You had gotten clarity from Richard, and you were sure of what you did. That didn’t mean it was easy.
Back at the house, the guys were lounging around and talking over the possibilities for the group date. That’s when a producer arrived to take Richard’s things.
“No way!” Ben gasped.
The others shared his sentiment, and expressed their disbelief as well.
Gwilym: I’m shocked that Richard’s going home tonight. They seemed to have a strong connection. Although, he did confess to me that he wasn’t in love with her. Most of the rest of us are, so maybe she just knew it couldn’t get there. That does mean there are still three roses to give out.
After the producer took Richard’s luggage, there was a knock on the door for a date card. Rami went to get it and opened it.
“Gwilym, Joe, Ben, Allen, and Taron,” he read. “Join me for a long expected party. Love, Y/N.”
“Okay, I really have no idea what that means,” Ben said.
“It could mean anything, really,” Taron agreed. “But a party implies fun.”
Taron: I’m actually quite nervous about this group date. Her sending Richard home on their one on one show how serious this is getting. I mean, when there’s the possibility for her to meet your family, how could it not be? I just hope I’m able to spend a good amount of time with her and show her how badly I want to take her home.
Allen got to his feet, heart pounding. He knew he had to see you before the group date and talk about what he was feeling. He went to his producer and spoke to her about what he needed, and she told him he could go to see you. So, he headed to your room.
You were still recovering from your break up with Richard. As much as you knew it was the right thing, you were hurting. You were journaling about it to organize your feelings when you heard a knock on your door. You set your things aside, got to your feet, and stretched before going to answer it. When you looked through the peephole, you were delighted to see Allen standing there.
“Hey,” you said warmly as you opened the door.
Your brow furrowed at his anguished expression.
“What’s up?” you asked.
You stepped back to allow him across the threshold. You closed the door and faced him, expression just as questioning.
“How are you?” he asked. “I know today probably wasn’t easy. Saying goodbye and all.”
You sighed. “You’re right, it wasn’t wasn’t. I’m still working through it, but I’ll be okay. I’ve got other great relationships I can focus on.”
You tried to smile, but the look on his face made you falter.
“What’s going on?” you asked. “What did you need to see me about?”
“I needed to talk to you before going on the group date tomorrow,” he said. “I’m not sure how I’m feeling.”
You blinked. “Um...what do you mean?”
“Since coming to Ireland, I’ve been really reflecting on my feelings,” he said. “You know my history so you know I’ve really got to feel something - and be sure of it - before committing again.”
“I understand,” you said. “Are you...are you not feeling something for me?”
“I don’t know,” he sighed. “That’s just it...I’m not sure. I like you - I like you a lot - but I hear the way the other guys talk about you, and I’m not sure I’m there.”
Richard’s exit already felt like one blow. Now, it felt like Allen had knocked you off your feet. You sat down on the couch to feel steady.
“You haven’t said you were falling in love with me or anything,” you said. “And I understood your hesitation. But you’ve continued through this with me. What’s changed?”
“Being home has reminded me of my last relationship,” he said. “And it’s making me realize how serious this is for you and for everyone else. And I don’t feel what I should be feeling by now.”
You felt more tears welling up. God, you were sick of crying already. Two men you felt had such strong connections had both admitted they were not in love with you. Doubt crept into your heart. Were you more sure than the men? Were you mistaken in your feelings?
“So what are you saying?” you sniffled. “You want to leave?”
“I do,” he said. “I’m sorry. But you’ve always said you want us to be honest. This is my truth.”
You took a deep breath and swallowed. “Well, I gotta say, Allen, I’m really blindsided right now.”
Richard, you sort of expected. He was reserved and you could feel that he wasn’t in this. But Allen...this had taken you completely off guard.
“I thought we had something really great,” you went on. You leaned forward, elbows on your thighs, and head in your hands. “Now I’m questioning everything.”
“I don’t want you to question everything,” he said, taking your hands to make you look at him. “This is just me.”
“It’s not, though, Richard had the same problem. He wasn’t in love with me and he couldn’t see himself getting there,” you argued. “Is every man here just pretending?”
“I take a bit of offense to that,” he said. “I haven’t faked anything. My effort in getting to know you has been absolutely genuine. The other guys are as well. Those guys are falling in love with you so hard their heads are spinning.”
You tried to smile, but couldn’t. You had taken too many hits today. He sat down beside you.
“I’m sorry you feel the way you do,” you said. “Because I was really falling in love with you.”
“I’m sorry too, darlin’,” he replied. “But it’s for the best.”
With that, he pulled you into a hug. You wept quietly into him for a few moments, remembering all your great times and wonderful conversations. When he pulled away, he wiped your face with his thumbs.
“You’re a helluva woman,” he said. “One of those men is going to be a wonderful husband to you.”
“Thanks, Allen,” you replied quietly.
You got up together and you walked him to the door.
“I guess this is goodbye,” you said.
“It is,” he returned. “But I hope it’s not forever.”
Now, you did smile. “Not, not forever.”
You embraced again. He gave you a little squeeze, and then he left. As the door clicked shut, you felt more tears fall. You wiped them away.
Allen got into the car that was waiting for him outside. He looked into the camera.
“I know I’ve done the right thing,” he said. “I had to leave. I didn’t want to take time from the other guys who really do love her, it wouldn’t be fair. She’s following her heart, and I’m following mine.”
In your room, you looked at the camera.
“I just feel like all I’ve done this week is say goodbye,” you said. “I said goodbye to Jamie, then to Richard, and now Allen too...it just sucks.”
You went to bed anxious. Who else was going to shock you? Hurt you? Leave you?
The next day, you were still off from your day of goodbyes. You wanted to rally for the men you were going to see today, but you couldn’t be sure you would totally recover. But you didn’t want to be unfair to them. So, you put on your makeup and donned a happy face.
You met them at a bar/cafe in Killarney called The Shire. It was based on the famous home for Hobbits in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, a favorite series of yours. When you walked inside, your mouth dropped. It really was something straight out of Middle Earth.
The guys, without Allen, showed up a few minutes after you. You looked at the four of them and your hurt began to erode. Allen was right. These four - and Rami too - were where you were going to find your husband.
“Hi!” you greeted. “Welcome to The Shire!”
They smiled, looking around to take everything in.
“We’re a little early,” you said. “But there’s a party here today, and we’re all invited. So, I hope you’re ready for a great time!”
The party was for a local woman who was turning one hundred and eleven. She loved Tolkien, so her family and friends were throwing her a birthday party based on Bilbo Baggins’s one hundred and eleventh birthday. As they started arriving, things picked up, and before you knew it, the party was in full swing.
It was everything a party needed. Snacks provided by the cafe, drinks provided by the bar, incredibly friendly Irish hosts, and a live band. You spend most of the time dancing. You danced with each man you had there, and they were all different. Taron had the most energy, leading you all over the floor. Joe was the silliest, making you laugh more than dance. Ben was shyer, but you got him to open up. Gwilym was poised, but still fun, and surprisingly great at moving his body.
You and the guys got to speak to the woman, whose name was Katie, during a moment of quiet. She was remarkably aware. She hadn’t lost a step, mentally.
“So, Katie,” you said. “What’s the secret to living to one hundred and eleven?”
“I’ll tell you, dear,” she replied. “It’s to stay away from men!”
You giggled together and she patted your hand.
“I’ve already gone off the path, then, I’ve got four of them!” you cried, pointing to them standing behind you.
“Darling, I don’t know how you’re even standing up!” she returned. “Especially, handsome as they are. You’d make better use of the time you’ve got lying down.”
You all burst out laughing and you gave her hand a squeeze. Laughing and dancing and spending this time reminded you of why you started this journey. You were falling in love. There was always hope. You knew exactly what you wanted out of this and you had faith it would come to you.
You had fun all day. The evening portion of the date was being held at The Shire as well, only now you had it all to yourselves. You were excited to talk to these men and see how they were feeling going into hometowns.
You met them once again at the bar, and you made a toast. Then, Gwilym pulled you aside first. You beamed at him as you went into the cafe together to sit and talk.
“How are you?” you asked.
“Very well,” he said. “I’m content with where we are, and ready to keep growing with you.”
“Are you ready to take me to meet your family?” you wondered.
“Oh, absolutely,” he said. “I think it would go exceedingly well, and you would fit right in.”
“The way I did in your library?” you teased.
“Yes, cariad,” he said. “Exactly like that.”
You kissed him. Then you asked him about his family. From his descriptions, it sounded like they were similar to himself - bookish, smart, and very kind. You definitely had something to look forward to if Gwilym got a rose.
Ben pulled you next. Just being around him made you giddy. Ben was so sweet, and you didn’t think you could ever get enough of him. As you took a seat together on a bench, he pulled your legs onto his lap.
“How are you feeling, love?” he asked. “I know this hasn’t been an easy week for you.”
“Yeah, that’s true,” you said. “Between Jamie, Richard, and then Allen, I started feeling like all I was doing was saying goodbye. I really started questioning things.”
“Even though you had given Rami a rose?” he questioned.
“Yeah,” you admitted. “After my date with Rami, I felt like everything was fine, in spite of Jamie showing up and having to make that decision. Then Richard’s date went south, and on the same night, Allen told me he wasn’t in love with me either. I got so scared that maybe this wouldn’t actually work. Maybe it’s not enough time to fall in love and…” you trailed off.
“I’m sorry you went through all that,” Ben said, rubbing his warm palm over your knee comfortingly. “I can’t speak for everyone, but I know that I’m still falling in love with you. I am falling in love with you every single day.”
“I’m falling in love with you too, Ben,” you assured him. Now that you had said it once, you wanted to keep telling him. And you were mostly sure about Ben’s feelings.
He kissed you.
“There’s no way you won’t find love here,” he said after. “You already have.”
You smiled and cupped his cheek. “You’re so wonderful.”
You kissed for a little longer.
After Ben, Joe came to get you. You looked forward to seeing Joe all the time. He was such a rock for you throughout all of this. And now, after your spirits were low, you felt that need to be near him again.
“Hey, baby,” he said lowly as he pulled you into a hug and kissed your forehead. “How’s it going?”
“It’s better now,” you whispered. “I’ve missed you.”
This was true. You actively missed Joe when he wasn’t around. Probably because you already felt so close to him.
“I’ve missed you too,” he replied. “I can’t wait for this part of it to be over. I really want you to meet my family.”
“Really?” you questioned.
“Really,” he told you. “I mean, they’ll love you. You’ll be more popular than I am.”
You giggled. “I dunno about that, but that definitely makes me excited. Who would I be meeting?”
“My mom, my siblings, my nieces and nephews, and probably my grandparents as well,” he said. “We’re a big group, and if there’s any reason we can all be together, we take that opportunity. Especially since my dad passed.”
“That makes sense,” you said. “I’d be so honored to meet the Mazzellos. I want to see the people who helped shape you into...well, one of the most incredible men I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet.”
He smiled. “You’re so sweet, Y/N.”
You chatted for a little longer, with lots of kissing in between.
Finally, Taron got to talk to you. He gave you a huge hug before sitting in a booth beside you.
“I’m so happy to be here with you tonight,” he said. “You’ve been on my mind a lot.”
“I have?” you returned. “In what way?”
“Not anything gross, I promise,” he joked. “But I’ve just been thinking about the chance of you meeting my family and the more I pictured it, the happier I got.”
“That’s so sweet, Taron!” you replied, kissing his cheek.
“That’s not all, though,” he said. “I also thought about what I would tell them when they inevitably asked questions about us. The only thing I could think of was that...well, I love you, Y/N. It’s beyond falling at this point. I’m there. One hundred percent. I love you.”
“Oh!” you gasped. “Oh, Taron, that’s - wow. That’s lovely. Thank you for telling me.”
He smiled and took your hand.
“I just wanted to lay everything out there,” he said. “To let you know where my heart is. It’s with you.”
You returned his grin and leaned over to kiss him again. You felt how deeply he meant those words in this kiss. But, it frightened you a little bit. You had to consider now how you felt about Taron, because you weren’t completely in love with him. You could see it happening for you. But was that enough at this point?
When you parted, you returned to the other guys to hand out the rose. It was waiting for you on a table. You had already decided who you wanted to get it.
“I wanna give this rose to someone who just...made me feel really good tonight,” you said. “Especially after everything that’s happened this week. So...Ben, will you accept this rose?”
“Of course I will,” he replied, standing up to receive it.
After pinning it to his jacket, you kissed each other on the cheek. Then it was time to say goodnight. You had a rose ceremony to prepare for the following evening. At this point in the journey, there were no more cocktail parties.
Ben: I’m stoked I got the rose. I can’t wait to bring Y/N to my hometown and introduce her to my friends and family. I think that it’ll really bring us closer and I’ll be able to tell her that I am in love with her.
The rose ceremony was held in a private room off the lobby of Ballyseede Castle the following night. The men were waiting for you when you walked in. You took a deep breath, more nervous now than before any previous rose ceremony. You knew what you had to do, but you were dreading it. This was the most difficult decision you had made so far.
“Hi guys,” you said, your voice shaking.
They all said hello back to you.
“This is the most difficult rose ceremony to date,” you said. “This was an incredibly hard choice, but with families on the line, I knew I had to be careful and go with where I feel the strongest connections. I hope you understand.”
With that, you picked up the first rose. There were only two.
“Joe,” you said.
You saw him release a breath before approaching you.
“Joe, will you accept this rose?”
“Absolutely.”
You pinned it on him. As he walked back, you picked up the second rose with trembling hands. Both Gwilym and Taron were looking desperately at you. You were going to crush one of them.
Chris Harrison emerged.
“Gentlemen, Y/N,” he said. “This is the final rose tonight. Y/N, when you’re ready.”
You nodded. You weren’t really ready. How you were going to say this goodbye was beyond you. You would be crushed too. You already felt a lump forming in your throat.
“Gwilym,” you said.
Gwilym had the same reaction as Joe as he walked up. You couldn’t look at Taron. You didn’t want to see his face and witness how you’d hurt him. Especially after he told you he was in love with you.
“Gwilym, will you accept this rose?” you asked softly.
“I will,” he replied.
Hands still shaking, you pinned it to his jacket.
“Taron, I’m sorry,” Chris said. “Take a moment, say your goodbyes.”
Taron was already being embraced by Joe and Ben at the same time. Rami followed after and kissed Taron’s cheek. Gwilym hugged him. You heard them whisper words of comfort to him, but you couldn’t make out what they said. You kept your eyes fixed on the floor. You couldn’t see him yet.
Finally, you heard his footsteps coming toward you and you looked up. Your heart broke inside your chest at his expression. He was shocked and hurt, and there were already tears in his eyes. Just as there were in yours.
“Can I walk you out?” you whispered.
“Yeah,” he said numbly.
You walked with him out to the lobby and through the front door, where a car was waiting for him. But before you led him to it, you pulled him aside and stopped.
“I’m so sorry,” you choked out.
“I…” he trailed off and cleared his throat. “I dunno what to even say right now.”
“I know,” you replied. “But yesterday when you told me you love me, I just realized that I wasn’t in the same place. My connections with the others are just further along and stronger, and I have to follow that.”
“I understand,” he said with a sniffle, and he wiped away a tear that had started down his cheek.
“I care for you so deeply, Taron,” you said, sobbing as you spoke his name. “You’re such a special person, and you deserve someone who can give back to you everything you offer.”
Tears were streaming down both your faces now.
“I’m just so sorry I can’t give that to you,” you continued.
He pulled you into his arms. You remembered vividly that day at Disney, and all the times he held you. How you felt about him in that moment. It made you ache. You stood with him for several moments, just weeping together.
“I’m sorry too,” Taron said. “I was hoping...I really wanted to be your husband, Y/N.”
“I’m sorry,” you cried. “You were so brave to come here and risk your heart. I hate that I’m the one breaking it.”
“Don’t be sorry,” he said. “You’re doing what you need to. And I just want you to be happy, Y/N. That’s all I’ve ever wanted for you.”
You sobbed harder, clutching a handful of his shirt. You weren’t quite ready to let him go. Even though you were sure of your decision. Even though he told you not to be, you told him again how sorry you were. There was nothing else to say.
Taron had the strength to finally part and start heading toward the car. You still cried as you went with him. He stopped at the door and kissed your forehead.
“So much luck,” he said gently, his voice gravelly.
“You too,” you replied. “Goodbye, Taron.”
“Goodbye, Y/N.”
He opened the door and slid into the backseat. You closed it behind him and watched him go, carried away from you forever. You looked on until the tail lights were no longer visible in the night. You were gutted.
Taron, inside the car, looked at the camera. Once he was no longer in front of you, he completely broke down. Sobs racked his body. His shoulders shook.
“I just can’t believe this,” he croaked when he had calmed down. “I was really in love with her - I am still. I just didn’t think it would end this way. I really...I really thought it would be me and her at the end of this.”
He wiped his eyes some more. He couldn’t look back now. All dreams of you had to be put aside. He just hoped he would be able to feel again what he felt for you.
Once Taron was gone, you shivered. Alone and sad, you returned to the remaining men. You noticed they were all pretty bummed too. Taron was well-loved, not just by you, but by them as well. Even though it bettered their odds for your heart, it was hard to see him go.
“Thank you all for being so patient,” you said. “That was really difficult for me and the decisions only get harder from here.”
A beat passed and you took a breath.
“That being said, I really am excited to meet your families and see where we can go from here,” you said.
You raised a glass, which Chris had given to you upon your return.
“To hometowns!” you cheered.
“Hometowns!” they echoed.
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