The private jet soared through the skies, transporting us to the picturesque landscapes of Colorado. Yet, as excited as I was about the impending adventure, a tinge of disappointment lingered. Seated in a section with producers and Callie, separated from the other contestants, I couldn't help but yearn for the camaraderie that might be unfolding among them. What connections were forming? Who bonded, and who clashed? The dynamics of the group remained a mystery, and I longed to be a part of those shared moments.

Upon landing, the sight of Colorado's vast beauty captivated me. The snowy landscape unfolded beneath us, a stark contrast to the familiar mansion surroundings. Our journey continued as we were chauffeured to a stunning log cabin, where the promise of warmth and shared experiences beckoned.

The cabin's interior was a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. It felt like a dream, and I marveled at the thought that I was in Colorado for the first time. Callie's announcement that we were free to explore heightened the excitement. Each room held the promise of discovery, and I wondered how this change of scenery might impact our interactions.

With thirty minutes until the designated jacuzzi room meeting, the contestants dispersed to explore the cabin's nooks and crannies. Eager to make up for the disrupted plans from the previous night, I approached Perry. Apologizing for our missed rendezvous, I explained how Caroline had intervened. Perry, understanding and perceptive as always, mused on the possibility that Caroline's actions were intentional.

"It's okay, Amelia," Perry said to me softly, "We're here now. I can't help but wonder if Caroline did that on purpose, though, since we are meeting there each night."

Perry lightly touched my hand with hers- almost seeming like it could be an accident, though I knew it wasn't.

I smiled at Perry and said back quietly, "Well, that's not going to stop me."

I went to my room in the log cabin- the master suite- and I felt bad that the other contestants had small rooms. I changed into a bikini and was directed to the jacuzzi room, which was stunning.

As the contestants gathered in the jacuzzi room, the atmosphere shifted from the structured filming environment to a more relaxed, unscripted setting. Mia, ever the enthusiast, popped open a bottle of champagne, its effervescence mingling with the sense of anticipation in the air. Glasses were filled, and I couldn't help but appreciate the novelty of this unguarded moment, a break from the structured routine of the mansion.

The room buzzed with conversations and laughter, each contestant revealing a bit more of themselves in this informal setting. Mia and Serena, unsurprisingly, became the life of the party, their infectious energy captivating everyone- and they seemed to get along very well. It was a refreshing change, seeing them really let loose, unburdened by the weight of the competition.

Observing the interactions, I noted the blossoming friendship between Luna and Casey. Their connection was evident, Luna's attentive demeanor complementing Casey's more reserved nature. It was heartening to witness these bonds forming beyond the confines of the competition.

It made me wish that I could spend more time with them in settings like this.

Amid the lively atmosphere, Perry retained her quiet presence, a serene observer in the midst of animated conversations. Yet, my attention was drawn to the subtle glances she stole, each one carrying an unspoken message. It was as if our connection lingered in the air, an undercurrent beneath the surface of the festivities.

"This is so nice," I said, "Being able to spend time with all of you, not in a challenge setting. It's incredibly refreshing."

"Agreed!" Serena smiled at me, taking a sip of champagne, "We all talk about how we wish we could spend more time with you."

I saw Perry's gaze shift towards me.

We spend more time together. And I hope we can spend time together at this log cabin.

"To spending more time with Amelia!" Mia said, raising her glass in a toast.

We all clinked our glasses together, and my heart felt full.

As the contestants dispersed from the jacuzzi room, my attention shifted toward Luna, who quietly retreated to the living room. A solitary figure by the flickering flames of the fireplace, she seemed to carry a weight that transcended the festivities. Intrigued, I decided to join her, curious about the thoughts that occupied her mind.

"Mind if I join you?" I asked, approaching Luna as she settled into a couch near the warmth of the fire. She welcomed me with a nod, and I took a seat beside her.

With a tender concern, I inquired if she wasn't feeling tired, considering the late hour. Luna admitted to her struggle with sleep on a daily basis, revealing that the upcoming anniversary of Erika's death weighed heavily on her heart and was keeping her up tonight. In that vulnerable moment, Luna allowed her emotions to surface, acknowledging the pain that lingered beneath her calm exterior.

"Tomorrow will be five years since she passed away," Luna said, "You know, I always say that things happen for a reason- but I have no idea why the fuck this had to happen."

Wrapped in the warmth of the firelight, Luna's tears fell, and I instinctively placed my arm around her, offering a silent gesture of comfort.

"Thank you," Luna murmured, appreciating the solace in shared silence. In that intimate exchange, she conveyed a depth of emotion that transcended the boundaries of the competition. Luna's gratitude echoed, as she said, "I really care about you, Amelia."

I turned my head to Luna and said, "I really care about you, too."

Luna put her hand on mine and then asked me, "Even if we don't make it to the end as a couple, could we still remain friends?"

I nodded and said, "Of course we can, Luna. I want you in my life no matter what."

Luna then pulled me into a gentle hug, and I could feel her soft hair tickle against me.

"I feel like I may be able to sleep now," Luna said, "It felt good to get that off my chest. Sweet dreams, Amelia,"

In the soft glow of the living room, the warmth of the fire still lingering on my skin, I decided it was time to retreat to my room.

As I navigated the darkened hallway, a chance encounter unfolded—a gentle collision with Perry. Her presence was unexpected but undeniably welcome. Perry explained that she had ventured to the kitchen for a late-night sip of water. Our chance meeting in the dimly lit corridor created an atmosphere filled with unspoken tension.

"I'm glad I bumped into you," I admitted the words hanging in the quiet space between us.

In the hushed stillness, the connection between Perry and me seemed to intensify. The dim hallway concealed our surroundings, leaving only the palpable anticipation that had been building. It was as if the universe conspired to create this moment for us.

In that charged atmosphere, Perry's hand found its way to my waist, a silent invitation. The proximity of our bodies created a magnetic pull, and with a subtle yet deliberate move, she drew me in. The threshold of hesitation dissolved, giving way to a tender kiss that echoed with the unspoken echoes of longing.

When we pulled apart, I found myself saying, "I wish you could come back to my room with me."

Even in the darkness, I could see a fire ignite in Perry's eyes, "Believe me- I want that more than anything, Amelia."

"We might have to make that happen," I said.

Perry nodded, and then she gave me a final, gentle kiss before heading off to the kitchen.

And once again, as I laid down on the bed in the master bedroom of the log cabin, my mind floated to Perry. Her hand on my waist, pulling me in.

I want her hands on my body. More than her hands, even.

You never know your luck.