Caught Up ~ Lewis Hamilton

Chapter 88

6 days later (Monday, March 3, 2025)

Week 9 Watch Party

* Lauren POV *

The excitement in my living room was clear as my friends and family gathered for our ninth watch party. We had already watched the other contestants' one-on-one dates earlier in the episode. Now, as Lewis and I arrived at the spa on screen, I smiled, remembering how peaceful that day had been. "It was such a relaxing day," I whispered, feeling both nostalgic and excited.

Lisa: "Oh my goodness, look at them! They're in paradise!"

Maya: " That spa looks amazing. Lauren, you must have been on cloud nine."

Lauren: " I was. It was the most relaxed I felt the entire season."

Maya: " I can only imagine."

Lisa: " Look at how he's looking at you."

Maya: " He's always giddy around her. That says a lot."

Lauren: " That's funny."

(I said, trying not to blush. They were right.)

Maya: " You know it's true."

Lauren: " It's cute seeing how giddy we both are to see each other."

Jasmine: " It is."

(Watching Lewis and I relax on the massage tables, looking content.  'I could use one of those,' I whispered, imagining Lewis giving me one during our next visit. I'm so tired of the short visits and wanted more time with him. My parents sat beside me, watching the screen with pride and curiosity, not worry. 'I love how excited they get at each watch party,' I thought, glad they had moved past their doubts. Their concerns had made sense earlier. But now, they were starting to see why we were together.)

Layla: "You look so happy."

Lauren: " I was."

Layla: "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself."

Lauren: " Thanks, Mom."

Michael: "Lewis seems like a good guy."

Maya: " He does, doesn't he? I love how much he cares for Lauren."

Lisa: " Absolutely. It's so heartwarming to see."

(The scene changed to Lewis and me having a quiet lunch alone after our massage. Even in our private room, the calm spa vibe had us feeling more relaxed than when the date began. Looking back, I think this might have been my favorite date with Lewis—it felt so intimate.)

Melissa: " This is so romantic!"

Jasmine: " It's pretty obvious that they're both really into each other."

(Lewis and I looked like we were on a vacation. We were always in our own little bubble, and that's something I love about him. He makes me feel like I'm the only one who matters.)

Lisa: "Aww, look at them. They're so cute together."

Jasmine: "Do you remember what you were feeling at that moment?"

Lauren: " A lot of nerves, like I always do."

(In the next scene, we were making out, which always makes my family cringe. I find their reactions hilarious. We'd already agreed they wouldn't come over for the Fantasy Suites episode, and it was definitely the right choice. They can watch it alone, but I wasn't sitting through that with them—and they agreed.)

Maya: " That was a great kiss. He always holds your face whenever he kisses you."

Jasmine: "I noticed that too. He doesn't do that with anyone else."

Lisa: " I agree. That says a lot. If you ask me."

Maya: "It does."

Lisa: " You and Lewis are adorable together."

Lauren: " It's impossible not to be adorable with such a good-looking man by your side."

Jasmine: " I agree. He might be the most beautiful man I've ever seen."

Lisa: "Be careful, in case you're talking about Lauren's man."

(Lisa's comment made me laugh. I didn't mind at all—I enjoyed hearing people compliment my man since I felt the same way. After our date, the rose ceremony was up next. With hometowns coming up, Lewis had to say goodbye to one woman tonight, and the tension was building.)

Lewis (on screen): "Ladies, I want to start by saying how grateful I am for each one of you. This past week in Hawaii has been an unforgettable experience, and it's because of the moments we've shared. Each of you has brought something unique and special into my life, and for that, I am truly thankful.
Standing here tonight, I am faced with one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. The bonds we've formed are genuine, and the thought of saying goodbye to any one of you is incredibly painful. I wish I could find the words to express just how much I appreciate the time we've spent together, the laughter we've shared, and the connections we've built.
I want you all to know that this decision does not come lightly. It's not a reflection of any shortcomings or faults—because there are none. Each of you is remarkable in your way, and you all hold a special place in my heart. The journey we've been on has been filled with incredible highs, and I hope you know how much it means to me that you've been a part of it. Tonight, as I hand out the roses, please understand that this is one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do. My hope is that whatever happens, you know that you are valued and appreciated beyond measure. This process is designed to find a lifelong partner, but it doesn't diminish the real and significant connections we've shared.
Thank you for your patience, your understanding, and most importantly, your heart. You are all extraordinary women, and I am honored to have gotten to know you. No matter what happens tonight, I want you to remember that."

(As Lewis finished his speech, I admired how genuine and charming he always was. Ariel's name was called first, then mine, Khaylah's, and finally Madina's. It was bittersweet to see Kira go; I'd grown to like her. Besides Ariel, Kira and Natasha were two people I could see staying close to after the show. The episode ended with Lewis toasting to hometown dates, and the preview showed him meeting the final four families. My family enjoyed their time on set and was excited to see it play out. With only four episodes left, I found myself reflecting on everything as it came to an end. After everything we'd been through, I knew I'd always cherish this chapter of our lives.)