The next morning we were set to leave Colorado- and the anticipation in the air was palpable as we landed back in California. I couldn't shake the desire to see Perry, to share a moment after our night in the log cabin.

I could not stop picturing her on top of me, taking control. It was a whole other side to her that I never expected to see- and I wanted more of it.

Callie made the dreaded announcement when we got back and settled into the mansion that tonight there would be an elimination.

The thought of having to choose someone to leave the competition weighed on me like an invisible anchor. It was a stark reminder that amidst the romance and connections, this was still a reality show with its scripted twists and turns. The private jet, the log cabin—it all seemed like a dream, and now the harsh reality of the competition was back.

There wasn't going to be a challenge today- but we were all told that there would be interviews.

When I walked into the interview room, Caroline Matthews was not the one who would be asking questions. It would be another producer named Ian- who was likely in his late 20s, and we had friendly interactions previously.

He started off by asking me how I felt about there being another elimination tonight.

"I dread the eliminations," I said, "I truly do. But as we are getting down to the wire, I know it is necessary for the show to go on."

Ian nodded and then asked me, "How was your night with Perry?"

The evening with Perry had been a sanctuary, a welcomed break from the competitive nature of the show. I shared just enough details to convey the emotional connection that had deepened between us, careful not to reveal too much. Ian's friendly demeanor created a space where I felt comfortable sharing the nuances of my budding romance.

Ian then asked me, "Who are the two ladies that could be in danger of being eliminated tonight?"

I paused before I answered, "Serena and Casey."

Serena, with her vibrant energy and undeniable charm, had enchanted me during our time together. However, the connection lacked the profound depth I sought in a potential life partner.

Casey, with her guarded demeanor and intense competitive spirit, presented a different challenge. While I admired her tenacity, our interactions had been marked by a certain distance at times.

Ian then asked me the final question, "We all know that you and Perry have a connection. Why keep Luna and Mia over Casey or Serena?"

"I just can't eliminate Luna. I adore her, and I find her to be beautiful. And there is just something about Mia that draws me in. I also appreciate that she is opening up more and more."

"Fair enough," Ian said, with a grin, "Good luck tonight, Amelia."

Next up was Luna.

Luna's interview with Ian provided a glimpse into her emotional journey during the Colorado trip. She expressed gratitude for the breathtaking experience the location offered but didn't shy away from acknowledging the emotional weight of Erika's death anniversary. Luna's vulnerability and honesty about her emotions created a sense of authenticity that resonated during the interview.

"It meant so much that Amelia stayed and comforted me by the fireplace," Luna said, "She is just wonderful."

When asked about the looming elimination, Luna maintained a positive outlook, expressing optimism about her continued presence on the show.

"I don't think I am going home tonight," she said, thoughtfully, "However, I have noticed that Amelia and Perry seem to have a connection- and if they do, I fully support it."

After Luna was Mia.

Mia's interview with Ian delved into her genuine feelings for Amelia and her self-reflection about her place in the competition. Mia's straightforward and candid expressions painted a picture of admiration and physical attraction toward Amelia.

"Man, those green eyes of Amelia's just pull me in," Mia said, "And she has such a good heart."

Expressing a desire for a connection based on both fun and understanding, Mia conveyed her hopes for a potential future with Amelia. Her acknowledgment of Amelia's kindness and their compatibility hinted at the foundation of a meaningful relationship.

"She seems to have an understanding of my health issues- which is very much appreciated because it plays a bigger part in my life than I like to lead on."

However, as the conversation shifted toward the looming elimination, Mia's usual confidence wavered. She openly admitted to feeling nervous about the possibility of going home.

"It could be me," she said, "I wonder if I have opened up enough to Amelia to stay on the show. I really hope that I have."

After Mia was Serena.

Serena's interview provided a glimpse into her overall experience on the show and her perspective on the relationships formed. Her expression of the show being one of the most enjoyable experiences of her life highlighted the positive aspects of the journey, emphasizing the fun and connections with both Amelia and the other contestants.

"Amelia is great," Serena said, "Though I have definitely developed friendships with the other contestants, especially Mia. I feel like we have an understanding of each other, and I wish she didn't live across the country from me. We could hang out when the show is over."

Serena also smiled and said, "Hopefully this show does wonders for my social media accounts as well."

As the conversation shifted toward the possibility of elimination, Serena displayed a realistic and accepting attitude. Acknowledging the uncertainty of her bond with Amelia, she expressed a readiness to accept any outcome.

"I don't know if my bond is strong enough with Amelia to stay," Serena said, "But if I do leave tonight, there will be no hard feelings whatsoever."

Casey's interview provided insights into her feelings about the recent trip to Colorado and the emotional impact of the video from her mom.

"I loved Colorado," she said, "I've always wanted to go there. I wish we could've hit the slopes, but I plan on going back as soon as I can."

The emotional weight of the video from her mom became evident as Casey shared that it meant a lot to her and served as a source of validation. The revelation that it demonstrated her mom's pride underscored the complexities of family dynamics and personal relationships within the context of the show.

When questioned about the possibility of elimination, Casey's response showed a sense of vulnerability and a genuine desire to continue her journey on the show.

"I really hope it's not me that goes home," she said, and then admitted, "I definitely do have a crush on Amelia, and would like to keep exploring that."

Last was Perry.

Perry's interview offered a glimpse into her current state, showcasing the toll the intense emotional and mental experiences on the show had taken. The noticeable bags under her eyes hinted at the challenges she faced, emphasizing the reality of the competition's impact on the contestants' well-being.

"Are you alright, Perry?" Ian asked, "I can't help but notice you look tired."

"I'm okay, thanks for asking. You're right though, I am tired," Perry said, "This experience can be tiring- even though it is great at the same time."

When asked about her night with Amelia, Perry's blush indicated the lingering emotions from their shared moments. Her simple acknowledgment that it was "very nice" hinted at the depth of their connection, leaving room for unspoken sentiments to linger beneath the surface.

"Do you think you could be going home tonight?" Ian asked Perry.

"I would be really surprised if I did," Perry said, "It would shock me, I won't lie."

Perry's confidence in expressing that she would be surprised if eliminated suggested a belief in the strength of her connection with Amelia.

As the interviews concluded, the narrative continued to build suspense, setting the stage for the crucial elimination decision - and soon after, Callie called everyone to the elimination room.

In that pivotal moment of elimination, my emotions were swirling like a tempest, each name I uttered carrying the weight of someone's hopes and fears.

"Amelia, in no particular order, who are you saving first?" Callie asked me.

Effortlessly, I said, "Perry."

Perry gave me a genuine smile, and as she walked up toward me, we shared an intense glance- and I knew we were both thinking about the night prior in my bedroom.

Next, I decided to save Luna. She sashayed up to me and pulled me into a warm embrace.

"Thank you, Amelia," she said, "This means a lot to me."

Even though I had thought about possibly eliminating her, Casey's name followed, her smile and words of thanks expressing eagerness to continue our journey, a subtle plea for a deepening connection.

Yet, the tension in the room reached its peak when Mia and Serena stood side by side, their fates hanging in the balance.

"Amelia, who are you eliminating tonight?" Callie asked me.

I closed my eyes for a second before I said, "Serena. I'm really sorry."

Serena and Mia immediately hugged, and then Serena walked up to me. She pulled me in for a hug as well, and I could smell her sensual perfume. She then gave me a light kiss on the cheek and said, "No hard feelings, babe."

As Serena left the stage, the remaining contestants grappled with the aftermath of the elimination.