SEX ON THE BEACH
Is There Someone Else? (Day 11+12)
SYNOPSIS‧₊˚ [10k] Another bombshell and unheard words put on the big screen cause the first major blowout in the villa
WARNING(S)‧₊˚ swearing, verbal altercations, MOVIE NIGHT
˗ˏˋ series masterlist ˎˊ˗
DAY eleven starts with an incessant buzzing on the nightstand next to you.
You stir, your eyes blinking against the darkness of the bedroom. Around you, the soft sounds of breathing.
To your left, Rafe is deep asleep, one of his arms draped over your waist, thumb resting right against your hip even in his slumber. You lie perfectly still for a second, listening closely, but no one else moves.
The phone buzzes again.
Carefully, with a breathy groan, you slide out from beneath Rafe’s arm. He lets out a low grunt, his brow furrowing for a split second before he rolls onto his stomach, burying his face deeper into the pillows.
You flip your phone over, shielding the bright screen with your hand, a text popping up.
Sorry to wake you, sleeping beauty. But a new bombshell has arrived in the villa and he’s chosen you for a secret morning date. Please get dressed quietly without waking any of your fellow Islanders. #NewBoyInTown #Snatcheez
Your face twists.
A new bombshell. And he picked you?
You look back at Rafe’s sleeping form, his shoulders rising and falling in the dark. Things between the two of you have been a rollercoaster, to say the very least. But you felt like you were close to finally finding a steady rhythm, and a date with a new guy is the last thing you need to throw off the balance.
Still, you don’t have a choice. This is Love Island. If you get a text, you move.
Tip-toeing lightly on the cold floorboards, you slip out of the bedroom and make your way down the hall toward the dressing room. When you push the door open, the bright vanity lights are already on.
Standing by the mirrors, unzipping her dress, is Cleo. She’s dressed up, her hair perfectly done, but she looks like she’s just walked a mile in high heels.
When she catches your eye in the reflection of a mirror, her face lights up with a knowing grin. "Oh! You must be the second date," she gushes, turning around completely to face you.
"Cleo?" you whisper tiredly, glancing back at the door to make sure no one followed you. "You’ve already been out?"
"Girl, yes. I was woken up hours ago," Cleo says, laughing softly as she fans herself. "Let me tell you right now, you are in for it. That man is an absolute dreamboat. Tall, gorgeous... a real gentleman."
You let out a breathy, nervous laugh, walking over to your wardrobe rack to find something to wear so you could just shower, freshen up, throw on your outfit, and head out. "Really? I'm kind of losing my mind right now. I was not expecting this at all."
"Just go in with an open mind," Cleo encourages, walking over to pat your shoulder. "I know you’re pretty much locked down with Rafe, but it never hurts to be reminded of what else is out there.” She comforts, pulling up her pajama pants. “Good luck, babe."
"Thanks," you say softly.
Once she slips back out to catch a few more hours of sleep, you quickly get to work. You choose a beautiful tropical outfit—a two-piece set that highlights your figure without trying too hard. You lay it out before you shower. Afterwards, doing your makeup, keeping it clean and simple, and styling your hair. Just as you’re putting the finishing touches on your jewelry, your phone buzzes, your name catching your attention.
…Your date is waiting. Head out to the front of the villa where a car is ready to take you away. #DestinationRomance
Taking a deep breath, you slip your phone into your small bag and walk out through the front doors of the villa. A sleek, black car with tinted windows is idling in the driveway. The driver holds the door open for you with a polite nod, and you slide into the backseat, watching the villa fade into the distance behind you.
The car drives for about twenty minutes, winding away from the coast and heading deep into the heart of the island. When the vehicle finally comes to a stop, you realize you’ve been brought to a breathtaking tropical botanical terrace. Towering ferns, vibrant hibiscus flowers, and massive monstera leaves enclose the space, and the air is thick with the scent of wild orchids and the distant sound of a rushing waterfall. A beautifully set wooden table for two sits under a canopy of green with fresh fruits, pastries, and sparkling juice.
As you step out of the car, a man stands up from the table.
He is, without a doubt, breathtaking. He stands well over six feet tall, with a flawless, deep dark complexion, and style that screams effortless sophistication even in the tropical heat.
As you approach, a warm, incredibly charming smile breaks across his face. "Hi there," he says, his voice carrying an accent. He steps forward, extending a hand to meet yours. "I’m Miles."
"Hi, Miles.” You smile politely. “Nice to meet you," you say, letting him take your hand. Instead of an awkward handshake, he gently holds your fingers, guiding you toward your chair.
"The pleasure is entirely mine," Miles says, looking you up and down with an appreciative, respectful gaze as he helps slide your chair in. "I have to say, you look absolutely stunning. Pictures and TV don't do you nearly enough justice."
"Thank you," you say, a warmth creeping up your neck as you settle into your seat. "You don't look too bad yourself."
Miles chuckles, a deep sound as he sits down opposite you and pours you a glass of juice. "I try my best. Have to make a good impression, don't I?"
As you start to look over the breakfast spread, you feel the initial awkwardness melting away under his easygoing personality. "So, Miles, you invited me all the way out here. Tell me a bit about yourself."
He smiles. "Well, I'm twenty-seven, born and raised in South London—Peckham, if you’re familiar," he says, leaning back in his chair with a relaxed posture. "And I work as a Brand Consultant. Basically, I help people and businesses figure out who they are and how to present themselves to the world."
"A brand consultant," you echo, smiling. "That sounds fancy. So what brings a successful London guy all the way to a villa in the middle of nowhere?"
Miles’ smile softens into something more genuine, his dark eyes locking onto yours with an intense focus. "To be completely real with you? I’m tired of the games. Back home, it’s all about situationships and all that complicated, short-term mess. I’ve met too many girls who are far more interested in my Instagram following or what events I can get them into than me. I guess I came here looking for a woman who has real substance, y’know? Someone with ambition who knows who she is... but also has a bit of a wild side to match my own."
You nod, impressed by how articulate he is. He speaks with a lack of arrogance, yet he knows exactly what he brings to the table. "That’s really good to hear, honestly. It’s hard to find people who actually want depth these days."
"Exactly. And from what I've seen of you, you've got plenty of it," Miles says smoothly, taking a bite of a strawberry. "Which is exactly why I wanted to get you out here.”
You hum, plucking a grape from the fruit platter. “I ran into Cleo right before I left the dressing room, and she was absolutely gushing about you." You tilt your head, a playful smile on your lips as you shift the conversation. "How was your date with her?"
Miles lets out a sudden laugh, shaking his head as he rests his forearms on the table. "Asking me about another girl on our date? Is that your way of shooting me down already?"
You laugh, waving your hand defensively. "I was just curious. Cleo is a great girl."
"She is, she's lovely," Miles agrees easily. "We had a great chat, very sweet girl. But right now, my focus is across this table.” He deflects. “I want to know how you're doing. Tell me about your current situation in the villa. I've been watching, so I know you're coupled up with…Rafe, is it?"
Your smile wavers just a fraction. "Yeah. Rafe. He and I... it’s been a bit rocky, to say the least. We’ve had some really high-highs and…some pretty heavy lows."
"So I've noticed," Miles murmurs. "He seems intense."
"He can be," you admit, tracing the rim of your glass. "But he’s also unlike any guy I’ve ever met before. In a good way." You clarify. "He’s incredibly protective, and he cares really deeply. But he’s just got a lot of layers to uncover. It’s hard to explain unless you’re in it with him."
Miles watches you closely, observing the soft look that enters your eyes whenever you speak about Rafe. He lets out a lighthearted sigh, pressing a hand to his chest. "Ouch. Right in the heart. You're really trying to break me early, aren't you?"
You giggle, shaking your head. "I'm just being honest. I don't want to lead you on or make you think I'm just completely single and looking to jump ship."
"Hey, I respect the honesty. More than you know," Miles says, his tone shifting into something a little more intimate, a challenging smirk playing on his lips. "But just because you’re set on Rafe doesn’t mean my interest is just going to fade away. I don't scare off easily. And a girl like you is worth putting a bit of effort in for. I can only hope to change your mind over the next few days."
The sheer confidence in his voice sends a little thrill through you, but you keep your composure, offering him a small, polite smile. "We'll see about that."
The rest of the date passes by in a blur. Miles is incredibly charming, a true gentleman who asks questions and actually listens to your answers. But soon, the date comes to an end, the morning sun has fully climbed into the sky, and it’s time to head back.
WHEN the car pulls back up to the villa, reality hits you like a barrel of bricks. The sun is completely up, shining brightly over the pool deck, meaning the entire villa has to be awake.
And you now have no choice but to enter the villa... together.
You walk through the front doors first, stepping out onto the main patio. You’re walking a few paces ahead of Miles, hips swaying, trying to process the morning, when you realize the entire cast is gathered around the outdoor kitchen and sun loungers.
The second they hear your heels clicking against the deck, everyone turns to look.
"Where have you been all morning?" Sarah asks loudly from the daybed, her brows furrowed in confusion. "We woke up and you were just—"
Her voice completely cuts off as Miles comes trailing in right behind you, head held high.
A collective gasp echoes through the girls. Sarah’s jaw drops, Kiara halts mid-sentence with her coffee mug halfway to her mouth, and Rima instantly sits up completely straight on her sun lounger, her eyes widening.
You feel incredibly sheepish, the heat rushing to your face as you walk into the center of the patio. But the worst part is the weight you feel from the outdoor kitchen.
You look up, and your eyes lock right onto Rafe.
He’s standing by the blender, his knuckles white as he grips the edge of the counter. His face is absolute stone, jaw clenched, and his eyes are burning a hole straight through you.
You immediately leave Miles’ side, offering a quick, awkward smile to the group as you walk straight toward the kitchen counter, straight toward him.
"Hey," you say softly, stepping into his space.
Rafe doesn't look at Miles. He keeps his eyes locked entirely on you. "What's that about?" he asks, jutting his head out in Miles’ direction, trying not to seem put off.
Without hesitating, you reach out and slide your hand into his, intertwining your fingers, looking up at him. "I got a text this morning when everyone was still asleep. I didn't really have a choice, Rafe. I had to go."
Rafe looks down at your joined hands. He lets out a long, slow breath through his nose, the tension in his shoulders dropping. He knows how the show works. He knows the producers pull these stunts to stir the pot, but that doesn't mean he likes it.
He nods slowly, swallowing hard. "Yeah. Yeah, I know," he mutters. He glances up for a brief second, his eyes narrowing as he takes in Miles, before looking back down at you. He leans forward, pressing a firm, lingering peck against your cheek. "I still made you a smoothie anyway," he says, his voice softening as he reaches over and hands you a freshly blended pink smoothie. "Figured you'd be hungry."
A rush of relief and affection washes over you. "Thank you." And he hums.
Meanwhile, over by the daybeds, the remaining girls—Sarah, Kiara, and Rima—have already descended upon Miles like a pack of wolves, introducing themselves and trying to get to know him.
"Wait, Cleo," Rima asks, looking over at where Cleo is sitting calmly on the edge of a lounger, sipping her fruit water. "Why aren't you jumping up to go after the new guy? He's hot!" She talks about Miles like he isn’t feet in front of her.
Cleo and Miles exchange a knowing look across the deck, matching smirks breaking out onto both of their faces.
"We actually already met this morning," Cleo says smoothly.
"Cleo was my first date of the day," Miles adds, giving her a charming wink. "The early bird catches the worm, right?"
"Aww," Sarah squeals, clapping her hands together. "A double morning date!"
After chatting with the girls for a few minutes, Miles turns his attention toward the boys' side of the deck. John B, JJ, Pope, and Topper are standing near the pool table, watching him with varying looks of curiosity.
Miles starts to walk over with an easy smile. As he passes the kitchen counter, he stops right in front of Rafe.
He looks at Rafe, a casual smile on his face, though there’s an underlying sharpness in his eyes. "Apologies for stealing her away this morning," Miles says, offering a relaxed nod. He looks at you for a split second before looking back at Rafe. "You've got a good girl there. I’d keep her close if I were you."
Rafe stands entirely frozen, his expression completely blank as he stares at Miles, unsure of what this guy is even trying to say to him. Is it a compliment? A threat? A warning?
Confessional : Rafe "Who the fuck is this guy? Seriously. You just letting anybody in here now?” He asks, lip curling “He walks in here, takes my girl out on a date behind my back, and then tells me to keep her close? Like... thank you, Captain Obvious. I know she’s a good girl, that's why she's with me.”
Before Rafe can say anything reckless, John B and JJ step in, clapping Miles on the back and stealing him away to grill him about his dates and his life back home.
With the boys occupied, the trio of girls instantly gather together, gesturing for you and Cleo to come up to the terrace with them. You grab your smoothie, kiss Rafe, and follow them.
"Okay, spill everything. Like, now." Rima exclaims, leaning against the railing. "Cleo, you first. How did the date go? Are you excited? Is he your type?"
Cleo chuckles, leaning back on a chair. "Honestly? He’s definitely my type. He's good-looking, very mature, and the date was great. He’s smooth, knows how to talk to a woman, and he doesn’t feel like he’s trying to put on a show. I'm definitely into it."
The girls squeal, Cleo rolling her eyes as she tries to hide her smile.
"I love this for you!" Sarah cheeses, shaking the girl's shoulders. "I really hope you guys hit it off."
Then all eyes instantly snap over to you.
"And you!" Sarah says, pointing a finger at you, her eyes wide. "Girl, when you walked in with him, my jaw dropped to the floor. Did you see Rafe's face?” She asked. “I thought he was going to flip."
"I know, I saw," you sigh, rubbing your temple. "Miles was great. He’s a gentleman, respectful, very charming..."
"But...?" Kiara prompts, leaning forward.
"But I’m not turning away from Rafe so easily," you say firmly, eyes lingering on her longer. "And I told him that. I told him that Rafe is unlike anyone else and that I’m really happy where I am."
Kie doesn't respond after that, opting to look down.
"Ooooh," Rima coos. "Did you actually tell him that? How did he react?"
"He just laughed it off," you explain, shrugging. "He basically said he respects the honesty, but he’s not scaring off easily, and he hopes he can change my mind while he's here..."
"Oh wow," Sarah murmurs. "Looks like Rafe better watch out."
"Seriously," Rima chimes in, tossing her hair over her shoulder. "He is super hot. I definitely want to get to know him."
Sarah turns to her, a teasing smirk on her face. "Rima, be honest, do you think he stole your spotlight today as the newest bombshell?"
Rima cracks a confident grin, flipping her hair once more. "Never."
You all smile and burst into laughter, the tension in the air breaking.
AROUND mid-afternoon, everyone is relaxing by the pool when that familiar, dreaded text tone echoes across the deck. "Text!" John B calls, pulling out his phone to read it aloud.
Islanders, it’s time to find out who is truly aligned and who is just faking it for the cameras. Today, you will be playing... Couple Goals! #TruthHurts #GameOn
A collective groan and cheer rose from the group as you all headed towards the game area.
The producers had set up a small stage area near the fire pit, complete with three podiums for the single islanders—Rima, Miles, and Topper—who would be hosting the game while the current couples took their seats on benches facing the stage, each equipped with a large whiteboard and marker.
Miles stands at the center podium as he speaks into his microphone. "Alright, they’ve told us we'll be asking you all a series of questions, and one of you will write down what they think your partner’s answer will be on your whiteboard. The goal is to see which couples actually know each other, and the couple with the most points at the end wins a special prize."
All of the couples turn, whispering to each other.
"What d'you think it is?" Rafe asks, leaning down.
You shrug, leaning into him as well. "I feel like they've used the Hideaway a lot recently. Maybe a date? Or some kind of advantage?"
Though, your conversation is cut short when the game begins. It starts off incredibly silly and lighthearted. The questions are standard, baseline relationship trivia.
"What is your partner’s absolute favorite food?" Rima starts you all off.
You write down 'spicy tuna rolls' for Rafe, and when he reveals his board, it matches perfectly, and he gives you a proud grin.
"What is your partner's biggest, most irrational fear?" Topper asks.
JJ writes down 'spiders' for Cleo, but Cleo’s board says 'coconut crabs', leading to a hilarious argument where JJ insists they’re the ‘same thing’. John B and Sarah are right behind you and Rafe, and Kiara and Pope manage to score a few points on questions about childhood pets and hometown details, keeping the leaderboard incredibly tight.
But as the game progresses, the questions start to take a messy turn.
"What is your partner's biggest regret since entering the villa?" Miles asks.
The air grows noticeably colder. You watch as Pope hesitates, his marker hovering over the board before he writes something down, avoiding Cleo’s gaze entirely. Though, everyone got that question wrong.
Finally, Miles steps up to the microphone for the very last question. "Alright, islanders. This is the final question of the game, worth double points.” He says, an unreadable smirk on his face, “Ladies, write down the name of your partner’s most recent ex-girlfriend."
Slowly, you turn your head to look at Rafe.
The playful demeanor he had just seconds ago vanishes completely. His entire body goes stiff, shoulders tightening as his jaw locks into place.
Rafe has never mentioned an ex to you. Not once. You know about his family drama, you know about his struggles with sobriety, but past relationships?
You look down at your blank whiteboard as the silence stretches out. You can feel the eyes of the three other islanders on you, being the only one without an answer written down. Desperate to just put something down to keep the game moving, you press the marker to the plastic, scribbling down a random, common name.
"Alright, let's see those answers!" Rima calls out.
Sarah reveals her board, which matches John B’s board perfectly, securing them the lead. Kiara writes down a name that matches Pope's. Cleo writes down a name for JJ, and though it's close, it's not right.
Then, it’s your turn. You slowly lift your board, revealing the name.
Miles looks at your board, then looks over at Rafe. "Rafe, let’s see what you wrote down."
Rafe slowly turns his whiteboard around. Written in jagged, harsh black letters is a name, one that doesn't match the generic one you've scribbled down.
Sofia.
A silence falls over the patio. You feel a strange knot twist tightly in your gut. You look up at Rafe, trying to catch his eye. "Who’s Sofia?" you ask softly, your voice barely audible over the microphone.
Rafe doesn't look at you. He quickly lowers his board, wiping the ink away with the palm of his hand, completely erasing her name in a matter of seconds. "Just an ex," he mutters, his voice flat. He doesn't offer another word, his eyes fixed firmly on the ground between his feet.
And because you and Rafe got that final question wrong, Miles tallies up the scores on the main monitor, and...
"With a total of ten points... the winners of Couple Goals are Sarah and John B!" Miles announces into the microphone. "You two have won a romantic evening date outside of the villa."
The group cheers, clapping as John B pulls Sarah into a bear hug.
After the challenge ends, the islanders quickly disperse across the villa to escape the afternoon sun. John B and Sarah hurry upstairs to get dressed for their date, by the daybeds, Cleo and Kiara are sitting together in silence, while Pope and JJ are over by the outdoor weights, Pope aggressively lifting dumbbells while JJ cheers him on. Near the pool loungers, Rima has successfully cornered Miles, chatting him up with a bright, flirtatious smile.
You walk through the doors into the main house, your mind entirely overtaken by the look on Rafe's face during the game.
You find him in the living room. The shades are drawn to keep the space dark, and he’s sitting alone on the couch, staring at a movie playing on the television screen. He has his arms spread out over the back of the sofa, but his eyes are completely blank, entirely disconnected from whatever is happening on the screen.
You take a deep breath, walking into the room quietly. You saddle up right next to him, sliding your legs onto the couch and easing into his side, trying to gauge his mood.
Rafe doesn't move away, but he doesn't wrap his arm around you either.
"Hey," you start softly, keeping your voice gentle as you look up at him. "The challenge was fun…"
"Yeah," he mutters, his eyes still fixed on the TV.
You pause, biting your lip before trying to ease into the conversation about his ex. "So... Sofia.” You mutter. “You’ve never really brought her up before."
Rafe’s jaw works and he lets out a short breath. "No reason to. It doesn't matter. It was a long time ago."
"I was just curious," you say, your voice soft as you reach out to touch his forearm. But you just couldn’t drop the conversation. "...You know a lot about my past, Rafe. I just thought... I don't know, it felt weird realizing I didn't even know her name."
Rafe finally turns his head to look at you. "You haven't exactly gone into detail about your exes either," he fires back, his tone mildly defensive.
"Because you've never asked." you argue softly, your brows knitting together. "If you’d asked me, I would’ve told you, Rafe. I want to be open with you. I'm just trying to get you to open up to me a little bit.” Your face twists. “…Why are you getting so defensive?"
Rafe lets out a frustrated sigh, pulling his arms down and rubbing his face with both hands. "I just don't feel like talking about people who don't matter to me anymore," he says. "Sofia is a distant memory, someone I don’t know anymore, and someone who doesn’t know me. I’d like to keep it that way."
The finality in his voice is clear. You stare at him for a second, hoping he'll soften, but he just turns his gaze back to the television screen, shutting you out entirely.
Letting out a shaky breath, you stand up from the couch. "Fine," you whisper.
Needing an escape from his bad attitude, you head out to the pool deck. The sun is starting to dip lower, casting long shadows across the water. You quickly drop your cover-up onto a chair and slide into the deep end of the pool, letting the cool water submerge you.
You swim around aimlessly for a bit, staying underwater for as long as your lungs can handle, welcoming the silence beneath the surface.
When you finally kick your legs and break through the surface, gasping for air, you wipe the water from your eyes and freeze.
Standing right at the edge of the pool, looking down at you with an observant expression is Miles.
You gasp slightly, startled by his sudden presence. "Jesus, Miles! You scared me..."
Miles lets out a low chuckle, shoving his hands into his pockets as he kneels down slightly at the edge of the pool. "My apologies, didn't mean to."
You catch your breath, treading water as you look up at him. "I thought you were over there with Rima."
Miles shifts his weight, a slow smirk playing on his lips as his brown eyes lock onto yours. "I was. But I’d much rather talk to you."
You roll your eyes slightly, though a faint smile tugs at your lips despite your foul mood. "You’re very headstrong, aren't you?"
Miles bursts out laughing, a rich sound. "If my mother has anything to say about it, absolutely.” He nods. “I know what I want, love. No point in beating around the bush." His laughter fades as he studies your face, taking in the stress etched into your brow. "You alright? You look a bit conflicted."
"I'm fine," you shrug, swimming closer to the edge and resting your forearms against the cool tile.
"Right," Miles murmurs softly. He glances back toward the villa's large glass windows before looking down at you again. "That challenge earlier... Rafe didn't look too happy about that ex-girlfriend question, did he?"
You let out a sigh, shrugging your shoulders again. "It’s just a sore subject, I guess. I wouldn't be too thrilled to talk about my exes on national television either."
Miles leans forward a bit more, his voice dropping into a lower tone. "Maybe. But there's a difference between being uncomfortable and what I saw over there.” He eggs on. “Rafe had a look of pure regret on his face when her name came up." He tilts his head, his gaze piercing. "I’ve known folks back home who had that exact same look when things went south. Usually, they ended up right back in the arms of the person who put it there in the first place."
Your heart hitches painfully against your ribs. “…What’re you trying to say?” You stare up at him, your voice hardening. "That Rafe is still hung up on his ex?"
"I’m not saying anything, love. I’m just telling you what I observed," Miles says, his expression entirely calm. "Rafe is a very…mysterious man, isn't he? Even before I came in, when I was sitting in holding watching everything play out on screen... I could never really decipher him."
"That's because you don't know him," you fire back instantly.
Miles fixes you with a long, unblinking look. "And you do?"
The question hangs heavy in the air, completely knocking the wind out of you. Before you can even attempt to come up with a response, Miles offers you a polite, quiet nod, turns, and walks away.
You stand frozen in the water, his words echoing through your head.
FOR the rest of the afternoon and evening, a gloomy cloud settles over you. You move through the villa like a complete ghost, barely speaking, your mind spiraling.
When bedtime finally arrives, the bedroom is filled with the usual hushed chatter and shifting sheets, but you don't engage. You get into bed, rolling onto your side, facing entirely away from Rafe's side of the bed, staring blankly at the wall.
A few minutes later, the mattress sinks as Rafe climbs in. The room falls into darkness as the main lights are switched off.
You lie perfectly still.
After a moment, you feel his large, warm hand slide gently onto your shoulder, his fingers squeezing. "Hey," his voice is a low whisper in the dark. "You awake?"
Your chest aches with sadness and confusion, and you bite your inner cheek, forcing yourself to remain completely motionless, pretending to be fast asleep.
Rafe waits in the silence for a long moment, his hand lingering on your shoulder. When you don't respond, he lets out a quiet, heavy sigh, slowly moving his hand. He rolls onto his back, leaving space between the two of you as he lets you sleep.
THE morning brings no relief. You wake up feeling drained, an ache having settled into your chest. The quietness surrounding you is extremely noticeable, considering you haven't uttered a single word since opening your eyes.
While the rest of the villa starts to wander down to the kitchen for breakfast, or into the dressing rooms to get ready, you find yourself completely isolated in the bathroom. You stand in front of the mirror, gripping the edges of the marble sink, staring at your reflection, but you aren't really seeing yourself.
Instead, Miles’ words from the pool are sending you spiraling into a acid pit of flashbacks of your own past relationship.
Before coming here, you were with a guy who completely tore you apart piece by piece. He was violently verbal in his abuse, constantly using your vulnerabilities to make himself feel powerful, tearing down your self-esteem just to build his own ego back up. And the worst part? There was always another girl in the mix. Always an ex, a friend, a coworker—someone he was secretly texting, someone he was comparing you to. And whenever you finally gathered the courage to confront him about it, he’d find some way, any way, to flip it on you.
And his favorite excuse? The one that always made your self confidence drop from 100 to below zero?
“You’re a fucking stripper for Christ’s sake. You literally dance naked on random men for money, and you're trying to lecture me about what I do while you’re doing that?”
The memories hit you like a burning slap, a familiar wave of self-doubt crashing into you. Because he’d act like you were the light of his life one day, then belittle you the next, as if you weren't doing it all to better yourself in the end. As if he was some kind of provider, like you weren't living dollar to dollar for both of you. All because you weren’t really ever what he wanted, you were just there to make him feel better about himself. No other girls gave him the time of day, and his ex wanted nothing to do with him. You figured he took your kindness for weakness, making you his easiest target.
What if history was bound to repeat itself and you weren’t just too blind to notice?
Tears prick the corners of your eyes, blurring your vision as your breathing becomes shallow just as the bathroom door suddenly clicks open, and Sarah walks in, a hairbrush in hand. "Hey, have you seen the—"
She cuts herself off immediately, her eyes widening as she takes in your posture. You’re completely still, staring at the mirror with tears silently streaming down your cheeks.
"Hey... hey, what's wrong?" Sarah asks, worried. She drops her hairbrush onto the counter, immediately turning around to lock the bathroom door behind her. She rushes over, grabbing both of your shoulders gently, forcing you to look at her. "Hey, look at me. What is going on?"
The second her hands touch your shoulders, a choked sob escapes your throat, and you bury your face in your hands.
"Do you... do you think Rafe is just using me?" You sob, your voice cracking.
Sarah looks at you like you’ve just spoken a foreign language, her expression hardening into shock. "What? No! Absolutely not. Why on earth would you think that?"
"The challenge yesterday," you cry, wiping your face as you try to get the words out. "He completely shut down when his ex’s name came up. And he wouldn't tell me anything about her, Sarah. And then... Miles... he told me he saw the look on Rafe's face. He said guys who look like that usually end up right back with their exes, and he asked me if I even really know who Rafe is." You let out a ragged breath, looking at her with wide eyes. "What if he's right? What if Rafe is still completely hung up on her and I'm just an idiot sitting here letting myself get hurt again?"
The second the words leaves your mouth, Sarah’s face goes from worried to angry.
"Are you kidding me?" Sarah snaps, her hands dropping to her hips as she paces a step back. "Miles said that to you? What the hell?" She turns back to you, grabbing your hands tightly. "Listen to me. Miles is just saying whatever he can to put a wedge between you and Rafe. He saw a fire, and he decided to pour gasoline on it. He’s playing the game, like an asshole."
You sniffle, looking down at your joined hands, calming yourself. "But Rafe wouldn't even look at me, Sarah. He completely blocked me out."
"Because men are idiots." Sarah defends fiercely. "Lots of people absolutely hate talking about their exes. John B hates talking about his past, hell, I hate talking about Topper. That doesn’t mean that we miss them, or that we want them back. It just means that some people... some people leave scars on your heart that are so deep, they’ll always be sore. Scars that never fully heal because the betrayal or the pain was just that bad. It has absolutely nothing to do with how Rafe feels about you."
Sarah reaches up, gently wiping a stray tear from your cheek with her thumb, her eyes soft. "Sweetie, it hasn’t even been two weeks and Rafe looks at you like you're the only girl in the entire world. We all see it.” She reassures. “Don't let a guy who has been here for five minutes ruin that, okay?"
You listen to Sarah's words, and for the first time in twenty-four hours, the knot in your chest begins to loosen. You take a deep breath, calming yourself down.
"Okay," you whisper, offering her a weak smile. "Thank you, Sarah."
"Anytime, babe," She smiles, giving your shoulder a firm, reassuring pat. "Now wash your face, get ready for the day, and go talk to your man.” She urged. “And Miles better pray he doesn’t doesn't get a face full of my fist."
ONCE you’ve completely calmed down, fixed your makeup, and gotten dressed for the day, you finally gather the courage to head down to the kitchen.
When you step out, you realize the kitchen is completely empty except for one person.
Rafe is standing by the stove. He’s dressed in his usual shorts, his hair a bit messy from sleep. But when you look at the kitchen island, your eyes widen. He has set up a huge breakfast spread—way bigger than usual. There are plates of eggs, bacon, sliced avocado, toasted bagels, and a fresh glass of juice.
When he hears your footsteps, he snaps his head around. His eyes find yours, and a look of pity and guilt flashes across his face.
"Hey," he says softly, his voice a little raspy.
"Hey," you reply, walking over slowly and taking a seat on one of the barstools.
Rafe quickly grabs a plate, loading it up with a bit of everything, and slides it gently in front of you. He sits down on the stool right next to yours, pulling his own plate forward.
For the first few minutes, the two of you eat in silence. The only sound the light clinking of silverware and you can still feel the weight of yesterday, but you don't want to push him again.
But Rafe clears his throat and sets his fork down, staring intently at his plate as his chest rises and falls with a heavy breath.
"...Sofia was my first real girlfriend," he says out of the blue.
You freeze, your fork halting halfway to your mouth. You slowly set it down, turning your entire body to face him, staying completely silent to let him speak.
Rafe swallows hard as he looks up at you. "I felt like a dick for how I acted yesterday. I didn't sleep at all last night because I knew I hurt you, and I hate myself for that."
"Rafe..." you murmur softly, but he shakes his head, needing to get the words out.
"No, just... let me speak, please," he pleads quietly. He takes a breath, looking back down at his hands. "Sofia... we were polar opposites. Completely different worlds. But when we first started dating, she made me feel... seen. For the first time in my life, I felt like someone actually cared about me for who I was, not just my family's money or my problems. But after a while... I realized she didn't see me as her boyfriend. She saw me as a project. Something broken that she could fix, so she could get rewarded for it later."
Rafe’s jaw clenches, a flicker of old, bitter resentment passing through his eyes. "The night we broke up... we were at a party. She went to the bathroom and left her phone open on the table. A text popped up from her best friend, and I... I looked at it. It was a whole group chat filled with texts about guys they were with, about me. She was telling her friends about her 'rich ass boyfriend,' and she literally replied with things about how most of my money was going to be spent on her soon anyway... but that she had to fix 'whatever the hell is wrong with me first.'"
You pout as you look at him, your heart breaking at his words.
"I broke up with her that same night," Rafe says, his voice dropping into a flat whisper. "She tried to apologize, chased me, called me a million times... But I haven't spoken a single word to her since. But when her name came up yesterday... it just brought every bad thing I felt that night."
He finally looks up at you, his eyes swimming with a desperate sincerity as he grabs your barstool, dragging you closer as the legs screech against the floor, hands on your thighs. "It’s still a sore subject for me because that was the very first time I ever gave someone a real chance, and she completely destroyed my trust. But I want you to know... Sofia is nothing to me. She’s dead to me. The only woman I care about, the only woman I want to move forward with... is you. I swear."
Hearing his explanation, you slide off your stool, stepping directly into the space between his knees. You reach up, cupping his face with both hands, and press your lips firmly against his.
Rafe lets out a shaky breath into the kiss, his arms instantly wrapping around your waist, pulling you flush against his chest as if he’s terrified you’re going to disappear.
"...Thank you for telling me. And I’m so sorry you had to go through that." you whisper against his lips, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes.
Rafe buries his face in the crook of your neck, letting out a long, relieved sigh. "I'm fine," he murmurs, his grip tightening. "As long as I have you, I'm fine."
THE aftermath of your reconciliation lasts through the afternoon, but the energy of the villa is far from resolved. Late in the evening, a high-pitched alarm suddenly blares through the outdoor speakers, a bright flashing light on the main screen.
Every single islander's phone buzzes simultaneously. JJ grabs his first, reading the screen.
Islanders, tonight, the truth will be projected for all to see. Welcome to... #MOVIENIGHT! Grab your popcorn and head outside immediately. #PopcornReady #NoWhereToHide
You all exchange varying looks as you anxiously file out to the garden deck, where production has set up a cinema projector screen against the main wall, with rows of plush white couches laden with bowls of popcorn and drinks.
Standing at the front of the stage, looking incredibly glamorous in a stunning evening gown, is Ariana.
"Hello, islanders," She greets, a beautiful but ominous smile on her lips. "Please, take your seats."
Everyone sits down in their respective couples, the tension thick. You and Rafe sit closely on the center couch, his arm wrapped tightly around your shoulders.
"Before we begin tonight’s screening, I have an important announcement to make," Ariana continues, her gaze sweeping over the group. "Tonight, there will be a recoupling. And tonight, the power is entirely in the hands of the girls. Our newest female bombshell, Rima, will have priority."
A collective murmur goes through the girls. You shift uncomfortably, but Rafe only tugs you closer.
"But before you ladies start contemplating your final decisions," Ariana adds, her smile turning distinctly mischievous, "it’s only fair that you get a full look at everything that has been happening in this villa when your eyes weren't watching…”
Ariana steps off to the side, and the projector screen suddenly flickers to life, the words "THE REEL TRUTH" flashing in bold letters.
The clips begin to play back to back, exposing every single secret, private conversation, and hidden confessional from the last twelve days.
The first clip cuts to a confessional from Day One. John B appears on screen, shrugging with a boyish grin.
“Sarah and I kept locking eyes during the coupling, so I was kinda bummed when she went with Topper…” John B shrugged. “But your boy never gives up, so of course I had to show her what she was missing. Even if she doesn’t know it was me…yet.” He winked.
Sarah’s head snaps over to John B, her jaw dropping. "You did kiss me!" She smiles, nudging him in the ribs.
Topper lets out a loud scoff, glaring at the screen, muttering under his breath. "Unbelievable."
The screen instantly transitions to a clip from Day Three in the kitchen.
“You know,” JJ started, leaning against the outdoor kitchen counter. “I’m a big believer in exploring all my options. I know you and the buzzcut are 'a thing,’ but I can’t help that you’re easily the hottest girl in this villa.” You rolled your eyes at his words. “I think we’d have a lot more fun than you and Mr. Serious over there.”
You laughed, leaning back against the fridge as you cracked open a can of soda. “I can’t tell if you’re joking or dead serious.” You chuckled. “JJ, you are a menace. Are you ever not hitting on someone?”
“Hey, I’m a bombshell. It’s in the job description. Did you not read yours?” he teased. “But for real. You’re gorgeous, man. Just…keep me in mind if he gets too moody for you.” He threw a thumb over his shoulder to where Rafe was.
“I… appreciate the offer, JJ,” you said, patting his arm politely as you moved to exit the kitchen. “But I think I’m exactly where I want to be.”
Surprisingly, Rafe’s laughs, his arm tightening around your shoulder. He glares playful daggers across the couches straight at JJ as everyone chuckles. JJ clears his throat nervously, looking away. You were sure no one took him, or that clip, too serious.
The next clip was from Day Four, showing your private date with Rafe. The audio plays clearly over the speakers.
“…When you asked if I’d worked anywhere else… that’s, um, why I got quiet.” You choked out. “I did a lot of what I had to do to survive.” You told him, swallowing harshly. “…I worked as a bottle girl in some pretty shady clubs. I… I even stripped for a while.”
You close your eyes, a slight flush rising to your cheeks.
“Why the hell would they put that in there?” He fumes under his breath, sitting up straighter.
You put a hand on his, shrugging. “We’re on TV, Rafe.” You remind him. “Everyone was bound to figure it out anyway.” Despite your words though, he huffs, rubbing a hand up and down your arm.
The screen cuts to Day Five, a private chat between you and Cleo.
“I think…I want to go home.”
You blinked, genuinely shocked. “What? Why?”
“Because I’m tired of feeling like an idiot,” Cleo said, her voice cracking slightly as she looked at you, her eyes swimming with unshed tears. “I came here wanting to actually get to know someone. I gave Pope a real chance, and he lied to me. And looking around this place? I don’t feel a single connection with any of these other guys. John B is clearly pining after Sarah, Topper is a snake, JJ is… well, JJ, and Rafe is completely obsessed with you. I don’t want to sit around here acting like a background character just to survive an elimination. It’s embarrassing…”
Pope looks down at his lap, a heavy look of guilt washing over his face, while Cleo crosses her arms tightly, avoiding eye contact with everyone.
Next is a secret, whispered conversation between you and Sarah.
“…Honestly,” you started, palming the back of your neck, lowering your voice. “I think we need to…gently persuade Kie to go with JJ. If she stays with Pope, it’s just going to make Cleo want to leave again, and Pope clearly doesn’t know what he wants anyways.” You explained in a whisper. “If Kie goes to JJ, it gives Cleo and Pope space to either fix their issues or move on entirely.”
Sarah nodded, her mind turning. “I agree,”
“What the hell?” Kiara’s head snaps around, glaring at both you and Sarah. "Wow. So you guys were plotting on me behind my back—"
“Can we just get through it without anyone else talking, please?” John B throws out, silencing her and every one else.
You and Sarah exchange nervous glances, not responding as the clips keep rolling. A scene plays, showing Pope and Kiara.
“Kie, I’m not gonna to lie to you…” He began, a hand on hers. “The spark was real for me too. But…” He sighed. “…my mind isn’t exactly made up between you and Cleo. I still have a lot of interest in Cleo and I don’t want to throw that away if there’s still a chance. But, at the same time, I do want to get to know you. I don’t know, I guess I’m just in a weird position mentally…”
The screen then flashes to a confessional from JJ, looking hurt and bitter.
“I’m being a dick? Look, I’m tired of being the guy girls use for a good time and then drop the second they find someone more ’serious.'” He pouted. “I actually liked Kiara. I thought our date meant something. But if she’s just going to label me a red flag like everyone else before she even knows me? Fine.”
JJ curses under his breath, dropping his head but quickly recovers as Kiara side-eyes him.
Then, a clip of Sarah confronting JJ.
“You’re being a dick,” Sarah said flatly.
JJ’s face twisted. “What—”
“You heard one confessional, probably half of one, and decided to completely punish Kiara for it. She wasn’t calling you a player to be mean, she was saying she was scared to get her heart broken because she actually really likes you.” Sarah defended. “You need to get the full story before you start throwing a fit.” She snapped. “Go and talk to her like an adult.”
A soft confessional from Sarah pops up next, providing a brief moment of lightness.
"Everything with John B just feels so… natural. I don’t feel like I have to put on a show or say the perfect thing.” She smiled, her cheeks taking on an adorable shade of pink. “With Topper, I always felt like I was walking on eggshells, constantly staying on top of myself just to keep his head from turning. With John B, we’re literally geeking out over how old my house is over scrambled eggs, and…I don’t think I’ve ever felt happier.”
John B beams, kissing the top of Sarah's head, while Topper looks absolutely sick to his stomach, shifting angrily in his seat.
The screen shifts back to Pope, a look of profound guilt on his face in a confessional.
“I feel… I feel terrible. I chose Kiara because I wanted to see if there was something real there, and I do care about her. I really do. But…seeing Cleo over there, laughing with JJ… it hurts.” He admitted. “It shouldn’t, but it does. And the worst part is knowing that Kiara can see it all over my face.”
Kie huffs, mildly embarrassed, and Cleo slumps in her seat, but her eyes stay intensely focused on the screen, as if she isn’t trying to let them wander elsewhere.
The video shifts to the night of the party—the private conversation between JJ and Rafe after Rafe’s outburst.
“I… I struggled with alcohol for a really long time, man. Like, really bad.” He admitted, the weight semi-lifting. “…I’m recovering. I’ve been sober for a long while now. But it’s still…” JJ’s eyes widen in immediate understanding as Rafe’s words trail off, the pieces of the puzzle instantly clicking into place in his mind—why Rafe never had a drink at the villa, why he always stuck to water or soda, and why he looked so tense all afternoon. “I just planned to hang around today, chill out, and just get through the party,” Rafe continues, his hands shaking slightly as he rubs the back of his neck. “But everyone is fuckin’ drunk. The smell is everywhere. And she just… she kept pressing me about it. Over and over. ‘Take a drink, let me get you a drink.’ I just… I panicked, man. I lost it. I snapped at her, but I didn’t mean to.”
You squeeze Rafe’s arm tightly, leaning your head against his shoulder as the rest of the islanders steal glances at the two of you, shocked, but silent.
But the next scene only makes matters worse—the bathroom argument between you and Rafe soon after that conversation.
“I don’t want to talk to you,” Rafe snaps, turning around to face you fully, his arms crossed tightly over his chest.
“You don’t wanna talk to me?” You reiterate, eyebrows shooting up into your hairline.
“Not right now, I don’t.” Shrugging like a kid with a bad attitude.
You scoff. “That is so unfair,” you fire back, stepping closer, your voice rising in frustration. “You’re seriously mad because JJ told me a secret? Rafe, I told you things about my life on our date that I have never told anyone, and on television for that matter. I shared my own shit with you purely because I wanted to be open and honest with you and you can’t even do the same.”
Rafe just stares at you, his eyes completely unreceptive to your perspective. “I never wanted you to know,” he says, his voice dropping into a flat, harsh whisper.
“Why?” You breathed, pleading, voice soft.
“Because it’s my business. Not yours. And not JJ’s. Mine.” “…We’re supposed to be partners,” you whisper, your voice cracking. It hurt him more than he’d care to show or admit in the moment, like being stabbed from all angles. Rafe wasn’t giving you the cold shoulder to be mean, not necessarily. He just couldn’t fathom the thought of someone knowing who he really was and still being able to see any good inside of him. To be able to still love him.
“Yeah, well, maybe that was a mistake,” Rafe mutters, the words creating a lump in his throat as he turned back to the sink, the words forcing themselves out—anything to make you leave. And they cut deep. Deep enough.
“Yeah,” you nod, trying hold back your own emotions. “Maybe it was.”
A few people wince, you included, as Rafe’s jaw clenches. But even then, the show isn't done. It cuts directly to the aftermath of Rafe’s apology out on the daybeds later that night.
“…Will you come back to the bed now?”
“Yeah,” you smile softly, bumping your nose against his.
“Okay,” Rafe says, standing up and pulling you to your feet, wrapping his arm securely around your waist. “Go ahead back up to the room. I’ll meet you up there in a second. I’m gonna make us some tea to get warm.”
“Okay,” you smile, kissing his cheek before turning and walking back into the warm house.
The moment you disappear through the glass doors and slide them shut, the soft expression vanishes from Rafe’s face. He stands alone in the dark, his hands dropping to his sides. Suddenly, he lets out a quiet curse, pacing back and forth as he violently rubs the back of his neck. A heavy wave of guilt hits him as looks back toward the bedroom window, his chest tightening with guilt.
You look up at Rafe confused, confused by his reaction after you left that you hadn’t witnessed.
“What was that?” You asked, voice hushed, low enough for only him to hear.
Rafe tenses, hoping you wouldn’t have noticed. "Hm?"
“That look. The one you had after I walked away.” You press, and Rafe looks down at you, lips parting to respond when another scene starts, Kiara appearing on screen in a confessional, looking thoroughly annoyed.
“Honestly? I hate to say this, but,” Kiara starts, a disapproving look on her face. “I think she has very little self-respect for letting a guy yell at her and make a huge, public scene like that in front of the entire house, and then just…forgiving him the next morning. Like, he was screaming in JJ’s face over nothing. If a guy treated me like that, he’d be out the door in a second.”
You freeze, humiliation hitting you. You look over at Kiara, who suddenly looks very uncomfortable, avoiding your gaze completely as you scoff, your assumptions about her turning about to be completely true.
The screen keeps going, hitting John B next in a private conversation with JJ and Pope.
"Honestly, man, I just don’t know about Sarah," John B says, sighing. "There’s just a lot of drama between her and Topper. It’s exhausting."
Sarah’s head snaps over to John B, her eyes blazing with fury. "Excuse me?"
Then, Topper appears in a confessional, an arrogant smirk on his face.
"Now that Ruthie is gone, I definitely want Sarah back," Topper shrugs. "Mainly because she’s easy. I know exactly how to play her."
A collective gasp echoes across the deck. Sarah looks like she’s about to throw her popcorn bowl straight at Topper's head.
Then it’s a confessional from Cleo.
“I am going to be entirely real right now—I am getting so tired of Kiara not knowing what she wants.” Cleo threw her hands up. “She spent days making it seem like Pope was her top choice, acting like she was so guilt-ridden by her feelings for him. Then she gets exactly what she wants at the recoupling, and now? She’s walking around this villa looking borderline depressed at the mention of me and JJ being friends.” Cleo rolls her eyes. “Pick a lane, girl.”
Kiara glares at Cleo, her face flushing. But Cleo just glares back, shrugging.
The screen cuts to Rima talking to the girls.
"Pope was right up my alley. Seriously. He is so incredibly smart, he has a fantastic build, and he was so respectful. He got a little nerdy talking about his work and goals, but honestly? I find that incredibly attractive. A man who knows where he’s going in life is a major turn-on. He is definitely high on my list."
Pope blushes furiously, while Rima just straightens in her seat, winking at him.
The screen transitions to a conversation between you and Cleo in the kitchen, eating.
“Y’know,” You started through a mouthful. “Stop me if I strike a nerve, but, I thought you and Pope were cute.” you shrugged.
Cleo makes a face. “Really?”
You nod, still chewing. “Hell, yeah.” You emphasize. “I still think you guys would be a great match. But I understand that he…y’know, fucked up beyond repair.”
“Well, beyond repair is a stretch…” Cleo mutters under her breath, playing with her salad as you pause and look at her.
Pope’s eyes light up slightly, looking over at Cleo, who quickly shifts her gaze away.
Then, a clip of Rafe and you sitting by the daybed plays.
“... Do you want to close things off between us?" Rafe asks on screen.
The proposal catches you completely off guard. Your breath catches in your throat, your mind spinning as you look up at his intense, hopeful expression. But it’s like logic hits you suddenly. You look down at his chest, a hesitant, slightly guilty feeling twisting in your gut. "Rafe... I... I think it’s a little too early for that," you say softly. "We’ve only been here for ten days. The first recoupling was literally two nights ago. I really, really like you, and I am completely focused on you... but closing things off this early feels like we're rushing into something huge on a reality show where we don’t know what's coming next. I just want to make sure we're taking our time and doing this right."
The rest of the villa watches in shock, realizing you actually turned down Rafe's proposal to close things off—basically saying no to being his girlfriend.
The screen cuts to Pope talking to John B in the bedroom.
"Honestly, man, I wish I never coupled up with Kiara," Pope admits on screen. "And seeing Cleo with JJ and Miles? It makes me so…jealous. I miss her, man."
Kiara looks like she’s about to cry, completely humiliated.
But next is the girl in question talking to Sarah.
"I definitely have a thing for JJ over Pope," Kiara admits. "But I think JJ is completely off my case now, especially after that confessional where I basically called him a man-whore."
JJ winces, rubbing the back of his neck.
The final few clips show the secret dates from the last two days. First, Rafe and Rima's date, where Rima asks about his relationship with you…
"I'm really into her," Rafe says firmly on screen. "I don't see my head turning anytime soon, or at all."
Rima smirks, reaching over and putting a hand on his arm. "Well, you never know... especially now that I'm here."
Rafe simply quirks a single, unimpressed eyebrow at her hand. "I can't stop you from trying. But I'd advise you against it."
Then, Rima's date with Pope.
"What are my chances of you choosing me if the guys pick?" Rima asks.
Pope rubs his neck. "Like... twenty-five percent."
Rima raises an eyebrow. "Where's the other seventy-five?"
Pope responds instantly, "...With Cleo."
Next is Miles' date with Cleo. The clip shows them laughing hysterically, Miles feeding her a strawberry, the chemistry evident—a cute display that obviously might ruins Pope's chances of ever getting her back.
Then, it’s Miles' date with you. The screen projects Miles looking directly at you with that intense, confident gaze.
"Just because you’re set on Rafe doesn’t mean my interest is just going to fade away," Miles’ voice echoes. "I don't scare off easily. I can only hope to change your mind."
Rafe scoffs beside you, shaking his head. But then, the last clip plays, and it wipes any amusement from Rafe’s face.
"Do you... do you think Rafe is just using me?" You sob, your voice cracking with absolute desperation.
Sarah looks at you like you’ve just spoken a foreign language, her expression hardening into shock. "What? No! Absolutely not. Why on earth would you think that?"
"The challenge yesterday," you cry, wiping your face as you try to get the words out. "He completely shut down when his ex’s name came up. And he wouldn't tell me anything about her, Sarah. And then... Miles talked to me by the pool. He told me he saw the look on Rafe's face. He said guys who look like that usually end up right back with their exes, and he asked me if I even really know who Rafe is." You let out a ragged breath, looking at her with wide eyes. "What if he's right? What if Rafe is still completely hung up on her and I'm just an idiot sitting here letting myself get hurt again?"
And now? Now, Rafe is fuming.
The projector screen suddenly cuts to black, the words "THE END" rolling up the screen.
The second the outdoor lights fade back on, the group explodes into pure chaos, and almost everyone is screaming at each other.
next chapter>
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