Tai Up My Heart

Day 1: Arrival

I tried to calm my nerves as the Jeep pulled up to the villa. I couldn't believe I was actually here - on Love Island. When I applied, I never thought I would be chosen. I was an American living and working in London. I didn't think I had that "wow" factor that got a person cast on a reality t.v. show. But apparently I was wrong.

The Jeep came to a stop and I hopped out. It was quiet and I was afraid everyone watching at home would hear my heart pounding in my chest.

This is your home for the next two weeks. Breathe.

The front door opened as I approached. A beautiful girl with long brown hair, shaved on one side, peeked her head out and squealed when she saw me.

"Hi! I'm so glad you're here! I'm Elladine. It's so nice to meet you!"

She was so excited, and it was infectious. She was warm, sweet, and welcoming. I instantly felt at ease. I had a long track record of being a good judge of character - for the most part - and I knew that she and I would be fast friends.

"So," she continued her introduction as we walked inside, "I'm 25, I'm a glassblower, and I live in Cardiff."

We walked into the bedroom where a cute, athletic looking blonde was waiting.

"Oh hi!" she exclaimed. Her eyes widening. My gaydar went crazy.

"You're the new arrival? Man, I knew everyone here was gonna be gorgeous, but I wasn't prepared..."

Elladine nudged her, "Stop staring and introduce yourself"

"Sorry! Sorry! My name is AJ. It's so nice to meet you!"

"Tell me about yourself. Elladine was just giving me her bio while we were walking in. You know... age, hometown, career.."

"Well," she smirked, "I'm from Bath, I'm 21, and I play hockey!"

"Like, professionally? That's so cool!"

She smiled shyly at me.

"I'm Olivia. I'm 25. I'm from Seattle, originally, but I currently live in London. I'm a veterinarian for the London Zoo."

Both of the girls squealed in excitement.

"Really??" A.J. asked excitedly, "So, you just get to cuddle animals all day?"

"Well, not exactly. It's actually a lot like being a human doctor. It's mostly clinical stuff. But I do get in cuddles when I can."

"I can't believe we're actually here," I changed the subject.

"I know. It's surreal. I feel like I'm in a dream..." Elladine said. AJ nodded in agreement.

DING

"Here we go!" I said excitedly, though it wasn't my phone.

"Oh it's me!!" AJ said, "I've got a text!"

Girls, it's time to start meeting the boys. AJ, please make your way to the lawn and choose a boy to couple up with. Elladine and Olivia, stand by in the bedroom. You'll be up next!
#GirlMeetsBoy #GetThePartyStarted

We all looked at each other, surprised.

"But... the other girls haven't even arrived yet!" AJ said.

"I guess they'll be coming in later?" Elladine replied

"OK I better get out there. See you soon!!" she ran off giving a wave.

"She's got a lot of energy. I guess it's hard not to be excited when you're picking first. I can't wait. I want someone who's been around the block a bit, you know? Someone with some life experience. What are you looking for, Olivia?"