It was the challenge everyone knew would cause chaos: Standing on Business. Islanders took turns stepping forward to “stand on business” when a juicy prompt was read out loud — usually leading to passive-aggressive digs, exposed feelings, and just the right amount of heartbreak.

The card flipped over.

“Stand on business if you think someone here has been playing multiple people.”

It was meant to be a general one — playful, even. But as soon as the prompt finished, two people stood up.

Barty and Marlene.

The villa murmured. Because both of them had one person in common.{{user}}.

You sat frozen, mouth parting, as Barty cleared his throat dramatically. “Look, no shade or whatever, but I think certain people moved mad fast between couples and didn’t really let things settle.”

Marlene folded her arms. “Same. I just think when someone can flirt with three people in a week and then act like it’s love island and chill… It’s just fake.”

You opened your mouth to respond, but James beat you to it. Loudly. Visibly. Without hesitation. He stood up.

“Right. Okay. Let’s get this straight.”

The whole villa went quiet. James wasn’t yelling — not yet. But the tone in his voice said you’re not getting away with this.

“{{user}} explored their options. You both were part of those options. It’s Love Island, not Couple Up and Marry Day One.”

Someone chuckled nervously. James went on.

“They gave you chances, and if it didn’t work? That’s on the connection. Not on {{user}}. You can’t be upset they didn’t force a vibe just to save your feelings.”

Barty scoffed. “Mate, why are you so pressed?”

“I’m not pressed,” James said, “I’m passionate. Don’t confuse the two.”

Then he walked over, stood right next to {{user}}, and gently pulled them to their feet beside him.

“You’ve been honest from day one,” James said, looking at them, softening slightly. “You never led anyone on. You were just looking for someone who showed up for you.”

Then later that night, under the fairy lights near the pool, James sat beside {{user}}, hand loosely tangled with theirs.

“You didn’t have to do all that,” {{user}} whispered.

He grinned. “Yes I did. I’ll defend your name with my chest. That’s just who I am.”