Rian was waiting in the dressing room. The other girls had already been directed to head out to the garden area. She hoped that her speech would be enough. Although the day had been fun, it was also nerve-wracking. The speeches were the most crucial part of getting the public vote. Once that was over, it was out of her hands. Her phone buzzed. This was it… tonight was her last chance to popular opinion in her favor.

She walked out onto the lawn as the other islanders were patiently waiting in their couples. Rafi’s gaze met hers. He was beaming. He reached out, taking her hand. “You just look … amazing.”

Rian smiled. “You’re looking rather handsome yourself, you know.”

He gave her a grin. “Thanks.”

Seb’s phone buzzed. “We’re supposed to take a seat for the speeches.” His hand moved up to toy with his hair. “Viv and I are going first.”

Rian reached out and squeezed his arm. “You’ll do fine.” Rafi guided her to their cafe table and pulled her chair out. The speeches started. To be completely honest, Rian paid little attention to them. She smiled and clapped, cheering on the others, but her mind was elsewhere.

Finally, it was their turn. Rafi went first. “I want to start by saying you look beautiful, Rian. You made me feel right at home, which meant a lot seeing as I came to the Villa so late. Thank you for being you. Every day with you is an adventure, and I can’t wait to see what will happen in the future. Maybe I’m too forward, and I know we haven’t talked about this yet, but I’m just going to come out and say it. I love you.”

Rian flushed to her toes. She wasn’t sure what to say. She returned his feelings but considering the situation… Saying it would hurt too much. “It’s OK if you aren’t sure yet,” Rafi said, searching her face. “I didn’t say it to make you say it back.” Rian smiled at him and pressed a kiss to his lips. “That answer is enough for me,” He muttered as she stepped away to begin her speech.

“Rafi,” She gave him a beaming smile. “I didn’t know if I’d meet the perfect partner in the Villa. But my heart knows I’m in the right couple. I’ll always remember when we first met. I knew someone was in the cupboard, and I totally embarrassed myself.” Rafi chuckled. “What I didn’t expect was to be captivated by you. You make me want to be the best version of myself. Thank you for being my mine.”

Rafi reached over and squeezed her hand with a wide smile. “That was beautiful, babe. So sincere.”

They made their way back to their table. When Rian heard a sniff, she looked over toward Seb. “I’ve got some stuff in my eye.”

Rian smiled at him. “You lovable melt.”

Dance music played, and Rafi took Rian’s hand. “May I have this dance?”

“That would be lovely.” Rian smiled as she took his hand and stood. On the dance floor, Rian relaxed in Rafi’s arms. It was done. There was nothing more to do than enjoy these moments with him.

Seb tapped on Rafi’s shoulder. “Can I steal my pal for a second?”

Rafi smiled and twirled Rian into Seb’s arms. “Of course, I’ll get some drinks.”

“So,” he grinned, “Have you had the best time of your life or what?”

“The best,” Rian answered with a chuckle.

“Me too,” Seb answered, “I just wanted to say I’m so glad I met you. I couldn’t ask for a better friend.” Rian reached over and hugged Seb, wondering if he would feel the same way after the finale. It was up to the public now. She had gambled up until now. You might as well go all the way with it. It was time for the traditional jump into the pool. The Islanders joined hands, jumping in together. They splashed and played in the pool until Rian’s phone beeped.

Climbing out, she checked her phone. “Rian and Rafi, the public have decided to give you the keys to the hideaway for one night, but it’s up to you if you want to use them.”

“Oh, lucky,” Iona said, winking at Rian.

“What do you say, Rian?” Rafi said with a roguish smirk. “Sleep in the Hideaway?”

“Yes,” She answered.

“Let’s get out of these wet clothes,” Rafi said, taking her hand.