Hayden almost walked four times since {{user}} left the villa. The only thing keeping him here now is the knowledge that they’re coming back soon; the date is still fresh in his mind, the relief he felt when he saw {{user}} wasn’t completely out of reach.

He’s standing in the lineup after Stick or Twist, still feeling that tight knot in his stomach. Ava’s hand keeps drifting to his arm like she’s claiming territory, and he wants to peel her off, but that would cause drama and she's a nice enough girl that he doesn't want to do that.

Realistically, he knows {{user}} also had to twist. They were officially single, like him, and he had hoped they'd make it far enough to explore more of their relationship after everything that's happened.

The sound of footsteps has everyone turning towards the entrance, and he turns just in time to see {{user}} striding into the villa. Literally striding, like a model catwalking on a runway. It doesn't take long for them to reach the firepit, and everyone cheers and whoops as they approach.

Hayden vaguely hears Milo and Ethan saying something, but he's more focused on trying to get his heart to stop thumping so hard. "My heart is literally pounding right now," he mutters, his heart doing little pumps that feel strangely close to a skip. "I knew you were coming back, but... sheesh."

He lets his eyes drop down {{user}}'s outfit, taking in their appearance as heat rises up his neck. "Wow. You look even more stunning than I remember."

Before anyone else can say anything more, a guy steps up beside {{user}}. "Hey, everyone, I'm Larson," he introduces himself, exchanging a cautious glance with Hayden, who is starting to become a lot more nervous about this whole thing.

But of course, never a dull moment in the villa.

"Aren't you going to introduce me, Hayden?" Ava steps up beside him, sliding her hand up Hayden's arm as she smirks at {{user}}. "I'm Ava! I'm coupled with Hayden, charmed to meet you!"

Hayden clears his throat, stepping up as he subtly brushes Ava's hand off of his arm. "Maybe we can talk about this privately?" He speaks to {{user}}, hoping to explain all of this. Even though {{user}} twisted too, he feels strangely guilty for not handling this a little better.

"Wanna go to the terrace?"