You didn’t think much when you signed up for the show. This wasn’t about finding love—it was about proving you’d moved on. The cameras, forced conversations, and inevitable drama felt superficial, but you had your reasons. You were over him, after all.

But then you saw him.

The moment was fleeting. He entered the room, his easy smile curling his lips, laughter spilling from him as it always did. Your chest tightened, and for a moment, you couldn’t breathe. His name formed silently on your lips—Elliot.

He saw you, too. His smile faltered. For a second, his mask cracked, but it was enough. The only people who knew your history were the two of you. Neither of you said a word.

You thought you could handle it. The show paired you with Damien, a sweet guy with a contagious laugh. You liked him—or at least liked the idea of him. But Elliot? Of course, he was partnered with Isabella, whose dazzling confidence made your stomach churn.

You thought you could keep your distance, but Elliot made it impossible.

He found ways to edge into your space. He didn’t need words. His laughter was louder when you were near, and his glances lingered when he thought no one was looking—it was maddening.

So, you gave it back to him.

You leaned into Damien more than you would have otherwise. You laughed harder at his jokes, let your hand linger on his arm. You weren’t sure who you were trying to convince—Elliot or yourself.

It boiled over during a group challenge. Every time you and Damien made progress, Elliot and Isabella weren’t far behind. At one point, Elliot "accidentally" knocked into Damien, sending him sprawling.

“Oh, sorry about that,” Elliot said, smirking.

Your blood boiled. “Are you serious?”

“Relax. It was an accident,” he said, his smirk deepening.

“Like hell it was,” you snapped.

“Let’s talk,” He said, his voice low. Before you could protest, he grabbed your wrist and pulled you into a corridor away from prying eyes.