The anticipation in the log cabin hung in the air as I sat in front of the mirror, the gentle hum of the hairdryer filling the room. Caroline Matthews, an enigmatic presence in the realm of producers, entered the bedroom, breaking the tranquility.

"How are you finding the log cabin, Amelia?" Caroline inquired, her tone measured, giving little away.

I couldn't help but express my delight at the change of scenery. The rustic charm of the log cabin had indeed breathed new life into our journey, offering a reprieve from the controlled environment of the mansion.

Caroline, with her discerning gaze, then dropped a hint of intrigue into our conversation. She revealed that tonight, I would have the opportunity to choose a contestant for a romantic night. A subtle reminder accompanied her words—a suggestion not to let familiarity guide my decision automatically. It was a challenge to consider each connection with fresh eyes.

"I know that your mind is likely going to Perry, considering your connection," Caroline said, "But please, consider all of your options."

Nodding in acknowledgment, I couldn't deny the truth in Caroline's advice. While my heart gravitated toward Perry, the wise counsel urged me to evaluate my choices with a discerning eye.

Though I'll likely choose Perry.

Callie then announced for all of us to meet in the living room- and when we entered the living room, she told us that each contestant had a loved one from home film a video as to why I should choose them.

As the living room echoed with anticipation, Callie's announcement about the video messages from loved ones heightened the atmosphere. The contestants, myself included, gathered around the large flatscreen TV, the glow casting a soft light in the room.

The first to step into the vulnerable spotlight was Serena, and as her video began to play, the room brimmed with curiosity. On the screen, a familiar face emerged—Serena's sister, Nicole. The resemblance between the two was striking, an unmistakable connection.

Nicole's words flowed with genuine affection, describing Serena as a bit of a wild child with the kindest heart. The love and admiration in her voice painted a vivid picture of the sisterly bond they shared. She spoke of Serena's willingness to go to great lengths for others, emphasizing that a life with Serena promised an adventure filled with joy.

Glancing at Serena, I noticed the emotional resonance of the message in her eyes.

"That was so sweet," I said to Serena, "I can tell your sister loves you a lot."

"I miss her," Serena said, wiping at her eyes, "Sorry, I didn't think I would get so emotional!"

The transition from Serena's heartfelt video to Luna's carried a weight of emotion, especially considering it was the anniversary of Erika's death. Luna's connection with Erika, her late girlfriend, added an extra layer of poignancy to this moment.

As the video began, Luna's best friend, Jackson, took center stage. His warm smile and genuine demeanor radiated through the screen, a testament to the deep friendship he shared with Luna. Jackson spoke passionately about how Luna had illuminated his life, bringing brightness and warmth into every corner. The words were like a tender embrace, echoing the sentiment of being at home around Luna.

The screen filled with memories of Luna and Jackson, capturing the essence of their friendship. Luna's eyes shimmered with a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. As the video concluded, Jackson's parting words affirmed the collective sentiment—that both he and I were fortunate to have Luna in our lives.

Moved by the sincerity of the message and Luna's enduring smile, I expressed my agreement with Jackson's sentiments. Luna's gratitude was palpable.

"Jackson has been my best friend since first grade," she said, "We tried dating in middle school- only to both learn that we were gay."

The room rippled with laughter at that. I even saw Perry shake her head and chuckle.

Next up was Casey.

Casey's video brought a touching revelation as her mother, Hana, took the screen. The surprise in Casey's eyes mirrored my own, unaware of the heartfelt message her mother had recorded. Hana's words carried a depth of understanding, revealing a side of Casey that went beyond the walls she had built.

With genuine care and emotion, Hana painted a portrait of Casey as someone who had faced challenges, perhaps building protective barriers in response. Yet, once those walls were breached, a compassionate and caring soul emerged. Hana's description resonated with the Casey I had come to know—complex, guarded, yet with a profound capacity for empathy and kindness.

Hana's mention of Casey's past relationships carried weight. It hinted at a consistent pattern of respect and care, traits that Hana believed Casey would extend to me.

Casey looked a bit bashful from the video.

"I wasn't expecting my mother to say such nice things about me. She should tell me that to my face more."

After Casey was Perry.

I was particularly looking forward to seeing Perry's video.

Perry's video followed, and her eyes widened in surprise as a man resembling her appeared on the screen. The revelation came when he introduced himself as Perry's older brother, Logan. Logan's description of Perry painted a picture of a thoughtful and observant individual who translated her experiences into the written word.

He spoke of his admiration for Perry's resilience, acknowledging the challenges she had faced. Logan expressed a profound belief in Perry's capacity to love deeply, assuring me that when she found someone special, she would give her whole heart. The sentiment resonated with the Perry I had grown close to, emphasizing the depth of her emotions and her ability to cherish those closest to her.

As the video concluded, Perry's gaze met mine, and the intensity of the moment lingered in the air.

"It was nice to see Logan on the screen there," Perry said, "I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss him."

"I had no idea you had a brother, Perry," Casey said.

Neither did I.

The last video featured Mia's father, Eduardo, a man with brown skin and wavy black hair. Mia's face lit up with joy upon seeing her dad on the screen. Eduardo warmly introduced himself and began sharing anecdotes about Mia's charming nature, a quality she had possessed since childhood. He spoke with pride about Mia's ability to make people feel special and valued.

Eduardo mentioned Mia's tough exterior but revealed that beneath it was a big-hearted softie—much like himself. He playfully teased about the future partner who would be fortunate enough to experience Mia's charm and warmth for the rest of their lives. Eduardo also highlighted Mia's culinary skills, promising that her chosen companion would enjoy delicious home-cooked meals regularly.

As the video concluded, Mia looked genuinely touched, and her eyes shone with affection for her father.

"Mia, your father looks so young," Callie commented, "He's quite handsome, too."

"Calm down, Callie," Mia laughed, "And he is only 17 years older than me."

The atmosphere in the room shifted as the videos concluded, leaving a lingering emotional energy. Callie, with a subtle smile, announced that I could choose one contestant for a romantic evening. As the contestants waited with bated breath, I found my eyes naturally gravitating towards Perry. The connection we had forged, the intimate moments shared, and the understanding that seemed to exist between us made the decision almost instinctual.

"Perry," I said, meeting her gaze. Perry's eyes lit up with genuine joy, and she nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. The other contestants displayed a mix of reactions—some supportive, some curious, and perhaps a hint of disappointment. Luna gave me a supportive smile- as I could tell that she was suspecting the bond between Perry and I.

The warm glow of the fireplace bathed the living room in a soft light as Perry and I settled into our candlelit dinner. Dressed in a little black dress, I could feel Perry's eyes on me, and her compliment brought a flush to my cheeks.

"Thank you," I replied, smiling at her. "You look amazing too."

We indulged in a delicious salmon dish with smashed potatoes, the flavors dancing on our palates. The ambiance was intimate, and the crackling sound of the fireplace provided a soothing background melody. Two glasses of wine sat between us, adding to the romantic atmosphere.

As we enjoyed our meal, the conversation naturally turned to the videos shown earlier. I expressed my appreciation for Logan's heartfelt message and admitted that I hadn't known Perry had a brother.

Perry sighed, her gaze momentarily distant. "Yeah, he's a gem. Lives in Oregon, so we don't see each other much, but we talk a lot."

She went on to share more about her family, revealing a strained relationship with her parents. They were wealthy but lacked the emotional connection she needed. Perry opened up about her struggles with mental health and how Logan had been a crucial support system for her.

"It's been tough not being able to talk to him here," Perry admitted, vulnerability evident in her eyes. "But every message from him is like a lifeline."

I reached across the table to place my hand on hers, offering a supportive squeeze. The revelations about Perry's family and the role Logan played in her life deepened my understanding of the complexities she carried.

Perry then asked me, "Why did you audition for 'Hearts Aligned'?"

Perry's question lingered in the air, and I took a moment to gather my thoughts. "You know, deep down, I'm a hopeless romantic," I began, meeting Perry's gaze with sincerity. "I thought this could be an interesting way to meet my soulmate, someone who's on the same wavelength."

A subtle smile played on Perry's lips as she listened to my answer. I continued, "And, I guess, it's a bit of a personal challenge for me. I haven't taken many risks in my life, and this... well, it's way out of my comfort zone, almost too much at times."

Perry nodded, seemingly understanding the complexity of my decision. The vulnerability of sharing my reasons with her felt oddly liberating. I leaned forward a bit, studying her face, curious about her own motivations for being on Hearts Aligned.

"What about you?" I asked, a genuine curiosity in my voice. "Why did you audition for the show?"

Perry's gaze shifted for a moment as if reflecting on her own reasons. When she spoke, her voice held a softness that matched the flickering flames in the fireplace. "I guess I'm a bit of a hopeless romantic too, though I don't show it much. This was a way to step out of my comfort zone, just like you. But I can't deny it's been challenging at times. I do feel quite out of place- except when I am with you."

As the evening unfolded in the warm glow of the log cabin, the ambiance around us seemed to carry an enchanting air. Perry and I sat across from each other, our gazes locked in a silent understanding. The remnants of our candlelit dinner adorned the table, and the embers in the fireplace continued to dance.

Perry's eyes sparkled as she thanked me for choosing her tonight. "I'm really glad you picked me," she said, her voice soft but filled with sincerity.

I smiled in response. "It couldn't have been anyone but you," I confessed, feeling the authenticity of the moment.

Perry's gratitude lingered in the air, and a comfortable silence settled between us. The crackling of the fireplace provided a soothing soundtrack to the evening. But then, breaking the quietude, Perry spoke again, her tone carrying a hint of reluctance. "I don't want the night to end just yet."

The sentiment resonated with me, and I found myself nodding in agreement. The connection we were forging felt too precious to let go of so soon. "Me neither," I admitted, a shared understanding passing between us.

As we stood up, I decided to do something bold. I whispered to Perry, "Come to my room after everyone is asleep."

Her eyes widened, and she nodded slightly.

As the lights started to go out in the log cabin, I found myself changing into a matching lace bra and underwear set and silk pajamas.

I'd like to take things further with Perry- if she wants.

When I heard a soft knock on my door- I couldn't help but to be surprised- even though I was expecting Perry.

"It's me," she said, just loud enough so I could hear.

The lights were out in my room, to fool everyone that I was asleep, but as I opened the door and Perry walked in, I could see in her eyes that she had the same thing on her mind as I did.

Like she did in the hallway the night before, she pulled me in close by my waist- and our lips met.

Everything as faded away as Perry kissed me- with more force than I was used to.

When we pulled away for a moment, she tipped her head back a bit and whispered, "Fuck. I've been waiting for this."

"So you want to..."

"Fuck you? Yes," Perry nodded, and I was surprised- in a good way- by her straight-forwardness.

"Good," I said, "Because that's what I want to do right now as well."

That's all Perry needed for her to lean in and kiss me again, this time both of her hands on the small of my back, pulling me in.

As we kept going, our kisses growing more and more intense, my shirt came off- and so did Perry's. She had a simple black bra on, showing her small chest- and she stared at me for a moment after I took my shirt off. Even though she had seen me in a bikini, she still looked at me like she hadn't seen me undressed before.

After our shirts came off, our pants did as well. Perry turned me around for a moment, taking in the view from behind before turning me back around and kissing my neck.

I gasped as her lips touched my neck, and then lowered down to my neglige.

Perry couldn't keep her hands off of me- and eventually, I wound up on my back, lying down on the silk sheets.

Perry leaned herself on top of me and whispered in my ear, "I know I am usually quiet and submissive- but in the bedroom, I like to take charge."

Hearing this sentiment from Perry brought on a familiar sensation between my legs that would only be resolved by one thing- an orgasm.

"That's fine by me," I murmured back. I consider myself to be a switch- but have no problem letting a woman dominate me if she wants.

Perry's lips met mine once again, and she then asked me if she could take off my bra. I nodded and sat up a bit. She reached behind me and took off my bra in seconds- and I flung it on the floor.

Looking at my bare chest she said, "When I've seen you in a bikini, you don't even know how often I've wanted to see you out of it. I'm damn glad I am getting the opportunity. You are gorgeous, Amelia."

"So are you, Perry," I said, and then leaned in and kissed her neck lightly. She closed her eyes for a moment, and then said, "Lay back. Now."

I was getting more and more turned on by the second by her- and I did as she said.

Her kisses then made their way down from my lips, to my bare chest- and my breath hitched as her tongue flicked against my nipple.

"Do that...lower," I said.

"Oh, I plan to," Perry responded.

I didn't have to wait long until she was between my legs, hovering over me. She glanced up at me with a hunger in her eyes, and I then felt her lips kiss my inner thigh.

I closed my eyes, in anticipation for what was next. I needed her mouth on me, and I said moaned softly, "Perry, please."

"I like hearing you beg," Perry said- and then I felt her lips on me- and her tongue starting to move in slow circles over my clit.

"Oh...my...god..." I moaned as softly as I could, conscious that anyone could hear if we were too loud.

Perry going down on me was hands down one of the best sexual experiences I ever had. She knew how to use her mouth like an expert- and responded to my body language, doing all she could to please me.

I could feel the pressure starting to build, and Perry could tell as well. She pulled me in every closer, burying her face in me, and moving her tongue non-stop.

"Perry...I'm about to..."

I then grabbed a pillow just in time and bit down on it, moaning into the soft fabric as I unraveled, the orgasm rippling through me. Perry kept going until my body settled- my legs still feeling shaky.

A few seconds later, she sat up, her mouth slick.

"You are so hot," she said, "I absolutely loved doing that to you."

"You're...amazing at it," I said back.

Perry gave me a shy smile, reverting back to her usual self, and said, "Thank you."

I wished Perry could have stayed in my room all night- but I knew that couldn't happen. When we shared one final kiss by my bedroom door- and she walked out, I could feel myself already missing her.

I laid down on the bed, and minutes later I was lulled into sleep- thinking about Perry the whole way through.