Chapter 28

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2 days later (Wednesday, June 19th, 2024)

* Rose ceremony * (14 contestants to 11)


* Rose ceremony * (14 contestants to 11)

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* Lewis POV *


After a fulfilling group date earlier with Ariel, Alexa, Anastasia, Evalin, Kelsey, and Kimberly, I found myself faced with the difficult decision of presenting my group date rose at the cocktail party. Ultimately, I chose to award it to Kelsey, recognizing her exceptional qualities and the genuine connection we shared. Each of these women had surpassed my expectations, impressing me with their unique personalities and charm. As I prepared for yet another rose ceremony, the weight of the impending decisions weighed heavily on my mind. Contemplating which three women I'd be sending home tonight was an overwhelming task. I grappled with the reality that I would be breaking someone's heart tonight. It was undeniably the hardest part of my journey as the Bachelor, as I hated the thought of hurting any of these remarkable women. Nevertheless, I understood the obligation of the process. In order to find the one person who would ultimately be the perfect match for me, difficult choices had to be made. It was a bittersweet realization, knowing that in order to pursue a deeper connection with one woman, I would have to send several women who had shared their time and vulnerability with me home, Despite the heartache that came with these decisions, I remained committed to the journey, trusting that each elimination brought me one step closer to finding that special someone.




Jesse Palmer: " Lewis, how are you feeling about tonight?"




(Jesse asked as we settled into our seats nearby. Throughout this journey, he has been incredibly supportive and approachable. Not only does he have firsthand experience from his own time on the show, but he is also a married man with a wealth of advice to offer. When I first came into this situation, I had no idea who Jesse was. However, over the past few weeks, we've developed a close relationship thanks to his encouragement and kind words. He has been a constant source of wisdom and comfort.)



Lewis: "Do the rose ceremonies ever get any easier?"



( I asked, with a mixture of apprehension and vulnerability. Jesse sighed, his expression empathetic yet resolute.)



Jesse Palmer: "Sadly no. It's only going to get harder. But remember, finding a great partner shouldn't be easy either."



(He reminded me as I nodded in understanding even though a huge weight was settling in the pit of my stomach.)




Lewis: " I know. I just hate breaking anyone's heart, especially when they're amazing ladies."



Jesse Palmer: "I get it. But you have to think about what it's preparing you for. In no time, you'll find the woman of your dreams, and that will be all that matters."


(He said as I offered a grateful smile, appreciative of Jesse's words of encouragement. He was right about the best way to look at everything.)


Lewis: "I agree. Thanks, man. Having you around has made this a lot easier."


Jesse Palmer: " No problem. Glad to be here to help."



(Jesse said, giving me a reassuring pat on the shoulder as I prepared to enter the room for the rose ceremony. Taking a deep breath, I stepped forward, bracing myself for the tough decisions ahead. Inside, the room was filled with emotion. The remaining contestants, their faces a blend of hope and anxiety, awaited my arrival. As I took my place at the front, I felt the full weight of the responsibility on my shoulders. Each rose represented a chance for love and a difficult goodbye to those whose journeys would end tonight. With a heavy heart, I began the ceremony, handing out each rose with careful thought and respect for the women standing before me.)



Lewis: "Lauren"

Lewis: " Lauren, will you accept this rose?"

Lauren: " Always"


Lewis: " Khaylah"

Lewis: " Khaylah, will you accept this rose?"

Khaylah: " Absolutely."

Lewis: " Ariel"

Lewis: " Ariel, will you accept this rose?"

Ariel: " I'd love to."

Lewis: " Susie"

Lewis: " Susie, will you accept this rose?"

Susie: " I'd love to."

Lewis: " Madina"

Lewis: " Madina, will you accept this rose?"

Madina: " Of course"

Lewis: " Anastasia"

Lewis: " Anastasia, will you accept this rose?

Anastasia: " Absolutely"

Lewis: " Maria"


Lewis: " Maria, will you accept this rise?"

Maria: " I'd love to."


(She said as Jesse appeared. This is it. It's time to hand out the last rose of the evening.)

Jesse: " Ladies it's the final rose of the night."


Lewis: " Kimberly."

Lewis: " Kimberly, will you accept this rose?"


Kimberly: " Of course."



(She said as I pinned the final rose on her chest. It pained me to send Alexa, Evalin, and Lexi home. Despite the tough decisions, each one brought me closer to understanding what I truly wanted. When I first arrived, I thought it would be impossible to connect with someone in such a short time. However, after spending time with many of the ladies, I'm beginning to believe that finding a meaningful connection here is possible. Alexa, Evalin, and Lexi are all incredible women; they just weren't the right match for me.)



Jesse Palmer: " Ladies, if you didn't receive a rose say your goodbyes."


(He said as Alexa, Evalin, and Lexi said their goodbyes to the remaining contestants. As each woman came to bid farewell, I wished them well on their journeys. With their departure, the group was now down to 11. Looking back on the journey from the original 32 contestants, I'm impressed at how far we've come. Despite the heartache and challenges, the chance of finding my match gave me renewed determination. With a sense of purpose, I'm embracing the journey ahead, believing that each elimination brings me closer to discovering the one person that I could build a long-lasting relationship with.)

Caught Up ~ Lewis Hamilton Where stories live. Discover now