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mrsfancyferrari · 6 months ago

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A Second Chance?

Summary: you came to Love Island to find true love after your ex left your life in chaos. you didn't think you would find it so easy.... episode 1

Pairing: Max Verstappen x you (Ex!George )

Song: Came Here For Love · Sigala

Taglist: @npcmia

Author’s note: Sorry it took so long to release. I got into binge watching Love Island too much but now i'm ready! Please like, reblog and share this! 🫶

Word count: 11.8k

MASTERLIST - F1

Love Island: Madrid - Episode 1

(Opening Theme Music and B-Roll of the stunning villa, the Spanish city below, and the glistening pool. Upbeat Spanish-inspired pop music plays.)

Voiceover (Laura, a bubbly and charismatic presenter): Welcome to Love Island! Get ready for sun, sand, and sizzling romances, because this season, we're trading the shores of Spain for the enchanting energy of Madrid! Ten gorgeous singles are about to enter the villa, with one goal in mind: finding love… and maybe a little fame along the way. Let's meet them!

The camera focuses on you, the sun glinting off the strategically placed glitter on your cheekbones. “Hey, Love Island!” you chirp, flashing a practiced smile. “I’m Y/N, I’m 26, and I’m a marine biologist. I spend my days rescuing sea turtles, which, let’s be real, is way more fulfilling than my dating life has been lately.”

You pause, allowing the producers a moment to capture your self-deprecating charm. “I’m here for sun, fun, and hopefully, someone who doesn’t think my passion for plankton is a total turn-off.” You wink. “I'm looking for someone who's adventurous, funny and appreciates a good sunset. Bonus points if they can tell the difference between a starfish and a sea urchin. Seriously, it’s concerning how many people can’t.”

The humid Spanish air clung to you like a second skin, a stark contrast to the emotional chill that had been your constant companion for the past few months.

Your life had been a carefully constructed Jenga tower, meticulously built with your ex.

Then, seemingly overnight, he’d yanked a vital piece, sending the whole thing crashing down in a mess of broken promises and shattered trust.

Your friends, bless their chaotic hearts, had decided enough was enough. "Sunshine, sea, and a whole bunch of hot singles," they'd declared, practically dragging you onto the Love Island application.

And now, here you were.

Your hand, surprisingly steady, clasped Hannah's. You’d met in the holding area just before your entrance; a whirlwind of nervous laughter and shared anxieties.

She was a breath of fresh air, bubbly and confident, and her bright blue dress was a perfect match for the nervous energy crackling between you two.

You, on the other hand, felt both vulnerable and exhilarated in your red dress – a defiant statement of confidence you wasn't entirely sure you possessed. The fabric felt like a shield, giving you the courage to take this absurd leap.

As the heavy villa doors swung open, a wave of noise washed over you two. Shouts of welcome, whistles, and a medley of nervous conversations.

It was a sensory overload, a kaleidoscope of tanned skin, flashing smiles, and the undeniable scent of sun-kissed skin and expensive cologne.

"Ready for this?" Hannah whispered, her blue eyes sparkling with an infectious mixture of apprehension and excitement.

You took a deep breath, the salty air filling your lungs. "As I'll ever be," you replied, a genuine smile finally breaking through the tension.

You two walked, hand in hand, through the sprawling garden, the vibrant colours of the villa almost as blinding as the flashing cameras. The other female islanders, a mix of familiar faces from the promotional videos and intriguing strangers, watched our entrance with undisguised curiosity.

You felt a flutter of nerves, a prickle of anticipation, like the moment before a roller coaster plunges down the first drop. This was it.

You'd traded your mundane life of lukewarm coffee and endless scrolling for a summer of sun, strategy, and – maybe, just maybe – love.

You two reached the designated spot, a small podium by the pool, where the host, the ever-charming and impossibly beautiful Maya, stood with her signature bright smile. She turned to you two, her eyes twinkling under the relentless Spanish sun.

“Welcome, ladies! You must be the gorgeous Hannah and…?” She prompted, her voice smooth and confident.

"I'm Y/N," You replied, your voice a little shaky but steadier than you’d imagined.

“Y/N and Hannah, welcome to Love Island!” Maya beamed. "How are you both feeling entering the villa?"

Hannah, always the natural, stepped forward. “Absolutely buzzing! A little nervous, maybe, but mostly excited to meet everyone and see what this experience has in store for us.”

You nodded in agreement, feeling grateful for her easy confidence. "Yeah, I’m with Hannah. It's definitely a bit surreal, but I’m ready for anything.” you offered a quick smile, trying to convey the mixture of trepidation and hope that was swirling within you.

Maya chuckled, a warm, genuine sound. "Well, that's the spirit! Now, Y/N, I hear you’ve had a bit of a rough time lately. Is that why your friends signed you up for this adventure?”

She leaned in conspiratorially, and for a moment you forgot the cameras were there.

You took a breath, trying to find the right words. You didn't want a pity party, but you also weren't going to deny your recent heartbreak.

“Yeah, something like that. My ex basically turned my life upside down, and I realized I needed a fresh start – a whole new perspective. My friends, in their wonderfully meddling way, thought this might be the solution.” you offered a wry smile, hoping to convey both your humor and your sincere desire for change.

Maya nodded with understanding, her gaze softening. "Well, I hope this is the start of something amazing for you, Y/N. And Hannah, are you here to stir up some drama or find the man of your dreams?” She directed the question to Hannah with a playful wink.

Hannah laughed, a bright, melodic sound. “A little of both, I think! I’m always up for fun, but ultimately, I’m really here hoping to find someone special."

“Well, ladies, you’ve come to the right place.” Maya concluded. “Now that we've introduced all of the girls, let's bring out the boys!”

She gave you another dazzling smile before stepping aside to watch the chaos unfold.

The first boy stepped out, and you recognised him from somewhere but where? – Max. He had this intense gaze and a subtly charming smile that sent a little tremor down your spine.

He was taller than you'd imagined, broad shoulders stretching the fabric of his fitted white t-shirt. His dark hair was neatly styled, falling just so across his forehead, and his eyes, a deep blue, seemed to scan the line of girls with a quiet confidence.

He was sculpted, his jawline sharp and defined, his arms hinting at a strength honed in some gym somewhere. He exuded a controlled energy, a quiet magnetism that was undeniably appealing.

He walked with an easy confidence that you found utterly captivating. Okay, Y/N, breathe, you told yourself, trying to ignore the sudden heat rising to your cheeks.

Then came Lando, all smiles and playful energy, followed by Oscar, who seemed a bit more reserved but had this undeniable magnetism. Charles was next, with his quiet confidence and sharp gaze, and finally, Alex, who was all smooth charm.

The boys lined up, and you found yourself drawn back to Max. There was something about his energy that held your attention. His eyes scanned over the group, and when they met yours for a brief second, your heart skipped a beat.

"Alright, boys, time to make your first impressions." Maya's voice cut into the charged atmosphere. "Take a moment, and then step forward to the girl you'd like to get to know better for 5 minutes."

The boys started to move, and you felt your stomach flip. Lando went to Mimi, his easy laughter echoing as he introduced himself. Oscar chose Emilia, their conversation already looking relaxed.

Charles, surprisingly, went for Hannah, his quieter demeanour contrasting with her vibrancy. Alex, ever the charismatic one, chose to talk to you.

"Hey, Y/N," he began, his smile charming, "I'm Alex. You seem a little nervous, but I think you're really beautiful."

You forced a smile, trying to focus on him. "Thanks, Alex. You’re very sweet.”

He launched into a conversation about himself, and while you nodded along politely, your gaze kept drifting to Max, who was still standing there, a slight frown on his handsome face as he watched Alex talk to you. You couldn’t help but wonder which girl he would choose.

Finally, Alex finished, giving you another charming smile and a wink, moving back to the line. You watched, your heart pounding, as Max took a breath and finally stepped forward.

He wasn’t smiling, his expression serious as he came to a halt in front of you.

“Y/N,” he said, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver through you. “I’m Max. I, uh… I wanted to talk to you first.”

Your breath hitched. “Hi Max,” you managed to get out, your voice a little breathless.

“You looked a little… uncomfortable, with Alex. I wanted to make sure you were okay.” He met your gaze directly, and it felt like he was seeing right through you.

You couldn’t help the blush that warmed your cheeks. “I’m fine, thank you. He… he’s very chatty,” you said, and Max’s lips curled upwards in a small, almost imperceptible smile.

“Yeah, I noticed. So, why Love Island? Why take such a big leap?” He seemed genuinely curious, and the question felt personal, like he was trying to understand you better.

You paused, taking a breath to collect your thoughts. “It’s a long story, but… I was in a bad place. My ex… he wasn’t good for me, and it left me completely lost. Love Island seemed like the most extreme way to try and find myself again, and maybe even find something real.”

Max nodded slowly, his gaze never leaving yours. “That takes courage, Y/N. I respect that.” His eyes were intense, and there was a sudden intimacy in the space between you that made your heart beat even faster.

“So what about you?” you asked, trying to distract yourself from the magnetic pull he seemed to have on you. “Why Love Island?”

He shrugged, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. “I’m tired of the games, of surface-level connections. I’m looking for something real too, and… I don’t know, I think there’s something about this place that screams ‘genuine chaos’.”

You laughed, a genuine, light sound that had been absent for so long. “Well, you might have come to the right place.”

You looked at him again, and your smile turned soft. “I’m glad you did.”

His eyes held yours for a moment, before finally he looked away, a slight blush highlighting his cheekbones. “Me too, Y/N. Me too.”

The moment was broken by Maya's voice, sharp and clear over the villa speakers. “Okay, time! Girls, would you please go and stand back into your positions, and the boys, come sit with me,” she instructed, her voice carrying the familiar, slightly mocking tone of a seasoned host.

You stood beside Hannah, her blonde hair a stark contrast to your own. Your heart pounded as you watched the boys take their places on the sun-drenched sofas opposite you.

You stole a glance at Max, and you think you saw him do the same. He looked away quickly.

“So boys,” Maya announced, her smile bright and dazzling, “do you like our lovely pick of girls?” Her question was a casual one, but the tension in the air was palpable.

You could feel the weight of everyone’s gaze on you, judging, assessing, searching for a connection.

You tried to keep your face neutral, despite the nervous butterflies fluttering in your stomach and the intensity of the situation. Your eyes scanned the boys, settling on Max.

He was relaxed, his fingers tapping absently on his knee. The easy confidence from earlier had returned and you found yourself wondering if he was as comfortable as he looked.

Maya went first to a guy named Lando. He was new, arriving with Max so you didn't know him much. Lando said he was into Mimi. He smiled brightly at her.

“And what about you, Max?” Maya asked, her voice playful. “Has anyone caught your eye?"

Max shifted in his seat and you found yourself holding your breath. You knew you were drawn to him, but you had no idea if he felt the same.

He looked up, his dark eyes meeting yours across the garden. A slow smile spread across his face, and for a moment, it felt like there was no one else in the villa.

“Yeah,” he said, his voice low and husky. “There’s definitely someone I’d like to get to know better.”

Your heart skipped a beat. Could he possibly be talking about you?

"Care to share, or should we all keep guessing?" Maya teased, a knowing smirk playing on her lips.

Max glanced your way again, his smile widening slightly. "I think I'll keep you all guessing for now," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. He didn't say it outright, but his gaze lingered a little longer each time he looked at you, sending a jolt of electricity through you.

The rest of the conversation faded into a background hum as you replayed Max’s words in your mind. “Someone I’d like to get to know better.” Were you reading too much into it? Was he just being polite? Your mind raced and your stomach flipped.

After what felt like an eternity, Maya announced it was up to the boys to pick who they wanted to couple up with. You tried to remain calm, despite the frantic rhythm your heart was beating at.

This was it, the moment of truth and your first real sign if your feelings would be reciprocated or trampled on once again.

Lando picked Mimi, Charles picked Elisha, Oscar picked Hannah. It was now Alex and Max’s go. You kept finding yourself staring at Max and he did the same.

It was Alex's time to pick a girl and you thought he would pick Em, so you zoned out for a second.

“I’m going to pick Y/N to couple up with,” Alex said confidently. Dread filled your stomach and you looked at Max.

He looked disappointed, you couldn’t believe it. But you didn't know what about. You hoped he was going to pick you if he had the chance.

You plastered a fake smile and walked over to Alex, giving him a quick hug before standing beside him. His hand respectfully rested on your arm, rubbing it for assurance.

You couldn't bring yourself to look at Max.

Max had to pick Em, and they did the same thing.

“The coupling is now sorted! These are the first couples of Love Island 2025,” Maya yelled, a booming sound over the villa's speakers.

You sat down beside Alex, trying to act like you’d just won the lottery, when all you wanted to do was cry. It felt like a cruel jest, the universe teasing you with a glimmer of hope only to snatch it away.

You knew that things could change, it was day one after all, but the small flame of hope you'd had for Max had been extinguished before it had even begun.

“Hey, you okay?” Alex murmured, his voice soft, pulling you from your thoughts.

You hadn’t realised you were deep in your head.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” you lied, forcing a smile. “Just a bit overwhelmed. It’s a lot to take in.” You didn't want to tell him you were thinking about another man that had just coupled up with someone else.

“I know, it is,” he agreed, his eyes holding a genuine warmth. “But we’ll get through it. We’ll have fun, I promise.”

His words were reassuring, but they didn’t quell the disappointment that gnawed at you.

"I'm going to leave you now but I'll be back tomorrow night for more news," Maya said with a grin, her voice cutting through the air again. "Adventure the new villa, find your main connection and most importantly, enjoy yourself!"

With a wave, she disappeared, leaving you and the other Islanders to navigate the uncharted waters of this manufactured paradise.

A buzz of conversation erupted around you. Couples were huddled together, whispering, giggling, and getting to know each other. You were talking to Alex, a polite conversation filled with surface-level questions, and the occasional awkward silence.

He was kind, attentive, and clearly trying to make you feel comfortable. The pang of 'he's not Max' hit you again, but you pushed it away. You had to make this work, had to try.

It was day one, things could still change.

But deep down, a small voice whispered that Max had never looked at you like he looked at Em, and that reality hurt more than you wanted to admit.

“Girls! Let’s go explore the villa!” Hannah suddenly announced, jumping up from the sofa, her infectious enthusiasm momentarily distracting you from your thoughts.

“Yes! Let’s do it,” Mimi chirped, adding her eagerness to the mix.

You glanced at Alex, gave him a small smile, “I’ll see you later, okay?”

He smiled back, a hopeful glimmer in his eyes, “Yeah, sounds good. I’ll be around.”

You joined Hannah, Mimi, and the other girls, your heels clacking on the cool tile as you explored the villa’s sprawling grounds. The pool sparkled under the Mediterranean sun, the vibrant greens of the lush landscaping contrasted beautifully with the stark white walls.

It was paradise, yet you felt strangely detached, your mind still haunted by Max's nonchalant glances in another direction. You walked alongside Hannah and found a secluded spot under a canopy of vibrant bougainvillea.

The other girls were giggling and joking by the pool, leaving the two of you to have a more personal conversation.

"So how is he?" Hannah asked, her gaze direct, but kind.

You knew immediately who she meant. "He's...fine," you answered, trying to sound nonchalant. "He's nice."

Hannah raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk playing on her lips, "Just 'nice'? Come on, girl, you looked like you were about to melt into the floor during the coupling."

You sighed, glancing at the colorful flowers around you, your eyes avoiding her direct gaze.

You hesitated, your mind flashing back to that moment, the hope that had blossomed in your chest as you walked out, only to be crushed as you saw Max’s attention was elsewhere. “It’s just… it’s obvious he’s not interested, is it?”

"And?" Hannah prompted, her voice gentle. "So what? This is Love Island, not 'The Max Show'. It’s been what, two hours? You've got a whole summer ahead of you, and you’ve got Alex! Stop wasting time fixating on the one person who is not giving you attention."

You turned to face her, a conflicted look on your face. "I know, you’re right. It's pathetic, and unfair on Alex... and probably Max too to be honest, I don’t even know him."

“Exactly! And Alex… he looks at you like he’s just won the lottery, even if you’re sitting there looking like you've just been told your dog died! Don't you see that?” she teased, nudging your arm playfully.

A small smile tugged at your lips. “Okay, okay, I get it. Max is off limits. Move on. Be open to Alex. Got it.”

"That's the spirit! Now, tell me all about Alex. What's he like?" Hannah pressed, eyes sparkling with mischief.

You thought for a moment, trying to focus on the good qualities you had noticed. "He's very sweet, really polite, and he's got these amazing eyes, kind of warm and inviting," you confessed, a surprising touch of honesty creeping into your voice. "And he seems genuine, like he’s actually listening when you talk.”

Hannah grinned. “See? Sounds like a catch. Maybe, just maybe, this whole coupling thing wasn't so bad after all, eh?"

You chuckled, shaking your head. “Maybe… maybe you’re right.”

You took a sip of your water, the cool liquid doing little to quench the heat of the villa.

Just as you were starting to believe that maybe, just maybe, things could be a little less complicated, your phone buzzed, a sharp chime cutting through the relaxed chatter.

Your heart leaped. You knew that sound. “I've got a text!” you yelled, your voice a little too loud, a little too full of nervous energy.

Every head in the villa turned, eyes widening with a mixture of anticipation and dread. The usual lounging immediately morphed into a scramble as everyone gathered around you.

You cleared your throat, holding your phone up for all to see. “Islanders,” you read, your voice a little shaky, “to spice up the energy, gather around the fire pit and do dare or dare.”

A chorus of excited squeals erupted from the girls, while the guys exchanged knowing smirks. You rolled your eyes, a smile playing on your lips. This was going to be interesting, you thought.

The energy around the fire pit was palpable. The setting sun cast long shadows, making the whole scene feel a little dramatic.

As everyone settled in, another notification chimed, this time on Hannah's phone. She grabbed it, her eyes widening as she read.

“Okay, this just got interesting,” she announced, a smirk spreading across her face. “You will have a device that will measure your heartbeat during these dares.

A collective gasp filled the air. Oh, this was going to be really interesting.

You felt your own heart begin to hammer against your ribs. The stakes had just been raised, higher than you expected.

Was your heart playing this game with you? You felt a mix of dread and anticipation. You glanced at Alex, who was looking at you with a shy smile.

The first dare had rolled around quickly. Lando, a gentle giant with a heart of gold, had to do a silly dance for the best-looking girl. Predictably, he’d chosen Mimi. Her face had flushed pink as he'd awkwardly swayed, and the monitor had shown a slight increase in his heart rate, little more than a brisk walk. You watched with a mixture of amusement and a surprising pang of jealousy.

Then came Oscar’s turn. He had to share a pocky stick with Hannah, slowly, suggestively, until their lips met. Then, when nothing was left, they were to engage in a passionate kiss, the kind you saw in rom-coms but rarely in real life.

Both their heart rates had spiked, the little monitors lighting up like tiny fireworks. The air crackled with a strange mix of tension and excitement. The game was getting serious.

Next, Elisha, with her fiery personality, had to French kiss the person sitting opposite her. That was Alex. You watched as his eyes met with Elisha's, and then her lips. You could practically feel her heart pounding in her chest.

And just like that, it was your turn. You swallowed, trying to appear cool, calm, and collected, the kind of girl who thrived in this kind of high-stakes environment. The notification chimed out on your phone.

You tapped the screen, your breath catching in your throat as you read the words: "Seduce the player to your right."

Your eyes darted to your left, then right, landing on Max. Max, with his chiseled jawline, piercing blue eyes, and the kind of effortless charm that could melt glaciers.

Your heart thumped against your ribs, the device registering a slight tremor in your pulse. You felt a sudden heat rise to your cheeks, a mix of panic and a strangely thrilling anticipation.

"Well," you joked, your voice a little breathier than you intended. "This is awkward."

Max leaned back in his lounger, his eyes twinkling. "Awkward? I think it's interesting. I'm intrigued to see how you're going to try and seduce me."

He raised an eyebrow, a challenge in his gaze, and you couldn't help but laugh. This was a game, after all. A very public, very strange game, but a game nonetheless.

You couldn't leave because you were being boring on TV, that was certain.

A mischievous thought struck you. You stood up, walked the few steps to his lounger, and without uttering another word, sat down on his lap. The breath hitched in his throat and his eyes widened slightly.

You leaned forward, your hand coming to rest lightly on his chest, and kissed him. It wasn't a soft, shy kiss. It was bold, confident, full of the energy you were trying so hard to project.

He was surprise, yes, but he responded with an intensity that sent shivers down your spine.

His hands came to your waist, holding you securely, and for a brief, dizzying moment, you forgot the cameras and the challenges, the other islanders, everything.

It was just you and Max, caught in a whirlwind of unexpected heat.

When you broke apart, you could see the pulse beating rapidly in his neck. His breath was coming in short, sharp gasps. Your heart thrummed a wild little rhythm against your ribs.

You pulled back, a grin spreading across your face, feeling a surge of satisfaction mixed with something else you couldn't quite name.

You stood and sat back down on the sofa, smoothing down your dress as if nothing extraordinary had just happened.

“That’s how I seduce you,” you teased, trying to keep the tremor out of your voice, hoping the camera didn't catch the flush on your cheeks.

You caught the flicker in his eyes, a mix of amusement and something much more profound.

He was definitely affected and that was...intriguing.

Max was speechless for a beat, his fingers drumming absently on his lap as he replayed the kiss in his mind. "Well," he said finally, a chuckle escaping his lips, "I can't say I've ever been seduced quite like that before."

You laughed, a genuine laugh this time. "I aim to please."

The game continued, dares thrown around like confetti, but you couldn’t shake the residue of that kiss. You noticed it too – the way

Max's heartbeat never quite reached the frantic speed it did with you, even when he kissed Em, his current partner. It was a small detail, a silent acknowledgment that something had shifted, and you found yourself replaying the moment over and over in your head.

When the game finally came to a close, Lando bounced up from his spot, his usual exuberance bubbling over. “Guys! It’s our turn to explore the villa!”

Everyone laughed at Lando’s slight mockery of Hannah’s catchphrase. The boys, a chattering, energetic pack, headed off to investigate the vast space, splitting into smaller groups almost immediately.

You made your way back to Hannah, sinking onto a smaller sofa tucked away in a quiet corner.

“So, how do you feel now?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with teasing curiosity.

“I feel… confused,” you sighed, running a hand through your hair. You'd kissed most of the boys during the challenge, but only Alex, your current partner, and Max, had left you feeling this…stirred.

“Well, it’s only day one, but let me tell you something, that kiss you had with Max was hot!” Hannah commented, letting out a low whistle. “Seriously, the way you held his face, that little smirk you had afterwards… pure fire.”

“Really?” you asked, a blush creeping up your neck.

“Really! You looked so comfortable on his lap, do you do that often?” Hannah teased, nudging you playfully.

“God, no!” you laughed, “That was pure dare energy. I don’t usually… initiate that forwardly.”

You knew you were blushing, could feel the heat staining your cheeks. The image of Max, his eyes wide and surprised, flashed in your mind.

You’d enjoyed that moment, the power of it, the way it had seemed to unravel him.

“Well, maybe you should start,” Hannah said with a wink and a grin. “I saw the way he looked at you after, girl. He was captivated. And let’s be honest, Alex is…” she trailed off, searching for the right word, “...sweet, but maybe a little bland?”

You knew what she meant. Alex was lovely, kind, and had the kindest eyes, but he lacked the edge, the raw energy that seemed to radiate off Max.

“He’s just… safe,” you admitted softly.

“Exactly!” Hannah exclaimed, throwing her arm around you in solidarity. "You need a little danger in your life, a little spark. And let’s face it, you and Max? Sparks were absolutely flying.”

You bit your lip, trying to ignore the butterflies that had now chosen to throw a rave in your stomach. “But I’m coupled with Alex,” you reminded her, the reality of your situation settling in like a lead weight.

“So? Day one, baby! Anything can happen. This is Love Island, not a retirement home.” Hannah giggled, “Besides, you have a type, which is Max. So, clearly the universe is trying to tell you something.”

You laughed, shaking your head at Hannah’s dramatic pronouncements, but her words lingered. You knew she was right, at least partly

You were attracted to Max, that was undeniable.

But the fact that you were coupled with Alex, that you were building something, however slowly, with him, made everything a lot complicated. . . .

The villa was a sensory overload. Sunlight glinted off the turquoise pool, music pulsed from unseen speakers, and the air crackled with the nervous energy of the assembled singles.

Max Verstappen, usually so composed, felt a knot tighten in his stomach. This was nothing like the roar of an engine, the precision of a racecar, the familiar comfort of the paddock. This was… different.

Terrifyingly different. He’d been thrust into this gaudy world of swimwear, spray tans, and manufactured drama less than four hours ago, and already he felt like he was drowning.

He’d barely had time to register names and faces, let alone personalities. Yet, here he was, trailing behind a group heading towards the bedrooms, his heart thudding a frantic rhythm against his ribs.

He wanted to see the infamous bedroom, the one plastered across countless episodes of the show. He'd watched them religiously, a strange, almost guilty curiosity pulling him in, but being here in person was a different beast.

And so did someone else.

He felt a presence beside him and turned to see a man with a charmingly crooked smile and eyes that seemed to hold a mischievous glint.

“Hey mate, I’m Charles Leclerc, I’m from Monaco, you?” Charles said, extending a hand as they crossed the threshold into the bedroom.

It was exactly like the show, all vibrant colours and strategically placed mirrors.

Max shook his hand, the contact surprisingly firm. “I’m Max Verstappen, I’m from the Netherlands,” he replied, keeping his tone short and his gaze focused.

He was trying to remain guarded, the layers he'd built over years making it difficult to relax and be open like everyone else was doing.

“Nice,” Charles said, plopping down on the edge of a bed, the mattress squeaking in protest. “I’ve been there once before,” he added, a reflective smile playing on his lips.

“So, why are you here?”

Max blinked, his mind momentarily blank. “What?” he asked, caught off guard.

Charles chuckled, his shoulders rising and falling with the movement. “Like, why you’re at Love Island? Like, I’m here because I don’t want to be single anymore. What about you?”

Max stiffened. The truth hung heavy in his throat: He wasn't here for love, not really.

“Same,” Max lied, forcing a nonchalant shrug and a casual tone. “Feeling a bit lonely these days.” The words tasted like ash in his mouth.

It wasn’t the first time he lied, and he knew it wouldn't be the last.

Charles beamed, his face lighting up with genuine warmth. “I have a feeling that we’re going to be best friends,” he declared, his voice full of conviction.

Max raised an eyebrow, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. “Really?” He was used to caution, to guarded interactions, especially after years spent in the intense world of Formula One.

This easy camaraderie felt strange, almost foreign.

“Yeah, I can tell,” Charles said, his smile widening. “We both seem to be a bit lost, in a good way, though,” he winked.

Max found himself returning the smile, a small, genuine smile that surprised even him. Maybe, just maybe, this whole ordeal wouldn’t be as unbearable as he’d anticipated.

Perhaps, if he was lucky, he wouldn’t have to go through the charade of finding someone, and maybe, he could actually pretend to enjoy the experience a little.

He'd been forced into the deep end, but he could use this time to get to know people.

"So do you like any of the girls?"

“Umm,” Max froze, the question catching him off guard. He hadn't been consciously analyzing his feelings, but his gaze instinctively darted around the expansive bedroom, taking in the half-empty suitcases and scattered clothes.

It was just him and Charles in the room, thankfully, though he knew the microphones hung heavy in the air, ready to capture every whisper.

He was supposed to be here to find love, wasn’t he? The problem was, he’d already found it, or rather, it found him.

He looked back at Charles, a blush creeping up his neck. “I like Y/N,” he said shyly, like the microphone wasn't going to pick up every word he said, like the cameras weren’t trained on them, like the whole country wasn’t watching.

Charles grinned, a knowing look lighting up his eyes. "I knew it!"

"How?" Max asked, genuinely confused. He’d thought he’d been keeping it under wraps, playing it cool.

"You looked so crushed after Alex picked her," Charles teased, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "You looked so love-sick when she left your lap after that kiss you two shared... should I go on?"

"No, don't," Max muttered, rubbing his face with his hand, as if he could erase the evidence of his blatant infatuation. He wasn't good at hiding his emotions, not when they were this intense.

His dad would kill him for this kind of openness, for showing any sort of weakness.

Thank goodness he's not here, he thought, a grimace crossing his lips at the thought.

It was one thing to be watched by the world, quite another to face his father’s wrath.

"It's not too obvious, right?" Max asked, a note of panic creeping into his voice. He had a strategic image to maintain, a reputation for being focused and unshakeable, not a lovesick puppy.

Charles chuckled, slapping Max on the back. "Mate, you’re about as subtle as a pin drop. But hey,” he added, his tone turning surprisingly earnest, “that's not a bad thing. It shows you care."

Max sighed, running a hand through his already messy hair. “But it’s…it’s embarrassing.”

Charles said, his tone light, “having feelings aren't embarrassing, and I think Y/N likes you too, don't you think? I see the way she looks at you.”

Max’s heart skipped a beat at that. He wanted to believe it, desperately. “She… she kissed me,” he said quietly, the memory a tangible warmth in his chest.

“But then she went with Alex.” He felt the familiar sting of rejection, amplified by the public nature of it all.

“It’s Love Island, mate,” Charles said with a shrug. “People get kissed, people get picked, but it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. It’s still early days.”

He paused, looking Max directly in the eye. “You need to fight for her. Don't let Alex win her over.”

“Easy for you to say, you’re not the one making a fool of yourself on national television,” Max retorted, surprised by the edge in his voice.

Charles raised his hands in mock surrender. “Okay, okay. But seriously, Max, you’re a Formula One driver, you deal with pressure all the time. This is just another kind of race, right? You got to figure out the track and push pedal to the metal.”

Max stared blankly at him for a moment, before a slow smile stretched across his face. “Okay, I get your point, but you’re never calling this the race again.”

“Deal,” Charles grinned. . . .

The turquoise water of the Love Island pool shimmered under the relentless Spanish sun, a stark contrast to the drowsy haze that still clung to Mimi’s mind.

She’d only been here for four hours, yet it felt like a lifetime. A whirlwind of introductions, forced mingling, and a truly ridiculous number of dares had left her feeling incredibly drained.

She’d sought refuge by the pool, the rhythmic lapping of water against the infinity edge a soothing balm to her frazzled nerves. Her nap had been short, but sweet, until a tap on her shoulder jolted her back to reality.

Opening her eyes, she found Lando grinning down at her. His dark hair was tousled, as if he’d run his hands through it too many times, and his hazel eyes sparkled with mischief.

Mimi couldn’t help but grin back. There was something undeniably magnetic about him, a playful energy that was both endearing and a little bit nerve-wracking.

“Hey sleepyhead,” he said, easing down onto the edge of her deckchair, his hip brushing against hers. “You tired after kissing all of the guys here?”

His voice was laced with teasing, a light, playful tone that made Mimi’s cheeks flush a little.

She punched him lightly on the arm, a small giggle escaping her lips. “It’s not my fault I got all the dares,” she protested, though a smile played on her lips. It had been quite the spectacle.

She’d kissed three guys for various ridiculous dares.

Lando feigned a dramatic pout, his lower lip jutting out slightly. “Yeah, but I didn’t get a kiss.” He looked genuinely sad, or at least, he was a very convincing actor.

Mimi raised an eyebrow, a sly look creeping onto her face. “Do you want one?” she asked, the question hanging in the air like a challenge.

Lando nodded immediately, his grin widening to reveal a flash of white teeth. “Absolutely.”

He looked at her with an intensity that made her stomach flip.

Mimi leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Then come and get it,” she said, the words laced with a playful allure.

He didn't hesitate. He stood, his long limbs moving with a fluid grace, and walked over to her. He knelt by the side of her deckchair, his chest almost parallel with her face, and his hands softly cradled her face.

His touch was gentle, feather-light, and it sent a shiver of anticipation down her spine. He tilted her chin up, his gaze locked on hers, his eyes filled with an emotion she couldn't quite decipher.

The air crackled with a palpable tension, a silent question hanging between them. It felt as if the rest of the villa had faded into a muted background, the laughter and chatter reduced to a distant hum.

There was only her and Lando, the sun beating down on them, the scent of sunscreen and chlorine filling the air.

"Can I kiss you?" The question was barely audible, a mere breath of sound.

Mimi's heart pounded in her chest. This wasn't a dare, this wasn't a game. This was something else entirely. It felt raw, real, and slightly terrifying.

She swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. "Yes," she managed to whisper, her voice husky with emotion.

He closed the distance, his lips meeting hers in a soft, tentative kiss. It wasn't the explosive, passionate kiss she'd shared during a dare, but it was more profound, more intimate.

It was a kiss that spoke of curiosity, of potential, of a connection that had sparked in the space of only four hours.

Their lips moved together slowly, a silent exploration, a silent conversation between two people thrown together in the most ridiculous of circumstances.

When they finally parted, they were both breathless, their eyes locked together with a mix of surprise and something that looked dangerously like hope.

"Wow," Lando said, his voice thick with emotion.

Mimi nodded, unable to find the words to express the way she felt. It was just a kiss, and it was nothing like she’d imagined. It was better. It felt like the start of something.

"So, is this a new dare?" A teasing voice broke through the bubble they’d created, their faces breaking apart.

It was Em standing by the edge of the pool, a mischievous grin on her lips.

Lando rolled his eyes playfully, pulling back. “No dares, EM,” he said. “Just taking a moment.”

“A very cute moment, might I add,” Em winked before sauntering away, leaving Mimi and Lando alone again.

Mimi couldn't help but giggle. The moment was gone, broken. But the feeling lingered, a warm glow in her chest.

Lando turned back to her, a smile playing on his lips. “This is going to be an interesting couple of weeks, isn't it?” he said, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Mimi laughed, a genuine, carefree sound that echoed across the pool. “You have no idea,” she said, leaning back on her deckchair, her eyes meeting his with a newfound sense of expectation.

She didn't know what the future held, but for the first time since arriving on Love Island, she felt a sense of excitement… a sense that maybe, just maybe, this ridiculous circus could lead to something real. . . .

The air crackled with anticipation. Tonight was the first proper dinner on Love Island, and after a day of awkward ice-breakers and forced flirting under the Spanish sun, the girls were buzzing as you all prepped in the dressing room.

"So, are you guys happy with your couples right now?" Mimi asked, her voice bright, as she expertly winged her eyeliner in the mirror.

"I'm happy with Oscar," Hannah said, grinning like a Cheshire cat. A chorus of "Ooooohs" and playful shoves erupted from the group.

"Look at you, whipped already!" Elisha teased, tossing a hairbrush at Hannah.

"Shut up! He's just... nice," Hannah said, blushing furiously.

"Nice isn't exactly the Love Island vibe, hun," Em said, winking. "Unless you're secretly plotting his downfall for the £50k…"

Mimi, now applying a generous layer of lip gloss, chimed in. "Me and Lando shared a small kiss," she announced, earning a loud cheer from the girls.

"Details, details!" Elisha demanded. "Was it a full-on snog? Did he use tongue? Was there… chemistry?"

Mimi giggled. "It was just a little one. But he's got something about him, you know? Confidence, for days."

"What about you, Y/N?" Em asked, turning to you. "How are things with Alex?"

You forced a smile, carefully avoiding eye contact with the mirror as you applied mascara. "Yeah, good! Alex is... great. We had a really good chat this afternoon, you know, getting to know each other."

Liar.

The truth was, Alex was perfectly pleasant. He was good-looking in a boy-next-door kind of way, with a genuine smile and a surprisingly witty sense of humour. But there wasn’t a spark. Not even a flicker.

Your eyes, however, kept wandering towards Max. He had this brooding intensity about him, a quiet confidence that screamed "trouble" in the best possible way.

And, more importantly, the few times your eyes had met, you felt that jolt, the one that said this could be something…

"A 'good chat' isn't exactly setting the villa on fire, is it?" Em pressed, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"What else is there to do on day one?" you countered, trying to sound nonchalant. "We've got plenty of time to build something."

"Build something… like a friendship?" Elisha snickered.

You shot her a warning look. "We'll see. I'm keeping my options open."

The girls seemed to buy it, thankfully dropping the subject. But your conscience wasn't so easily fooled. You hated lying, especially to your new friends.

But revealing your true feelings for Max would be a recipe for disaster.

Em was already coupled with him, and despite her playful ribbing, she seemed genuinely interested. Stirring the pot on day one would make you look like a desperate drama queen.

So, you kept your mouth shut, swallowed your feelings, and plastered on a fake smile.

The sun bleeds orange and pink across the perfectly sculpted landscape, turning the infinity pool into a shimmering mirror reflecting the impossibly blue sky.

The sound of cheering rips through the air. It's the boys, of course, already pumped up on whatever combination of protein shakes and manufactured enthusiasm they've been consuming.

You tighten your grip on Elisha’s hand, the slick feel of her fake tan against your skin a surprisingly grounding sensation. Six girls, descending the stairs, a carefully curated mix of sun-kissed skin, perfectly highlighted cheekbones, and strategically placed assets.

The producers want the slow-motion montage, the dramatic reveal, the palpable tension. What they get is six girls desperately trying not to face-plant in six-inch heels.

You take a deep breath, focusing on the next step, then the next. You can feel the burn in your calves already. Elisha whispers, “Smile! We’re on camera!” You plaster a smile onto your face, praying it looks more genuine than forced.

Finally, you reach the bottom. The cheers crescendo, the bass of the music throbs in your chest, and the boys surge forward to greet their partners.

Lando scoops Mimi into a hug, spinning her around. Elisha leaps into Charles’s arms, their laughter echoing across the lawn. Oscar pulls Hannah close, whispering something in her ear that makes her blush.

Max embraces Em, their connection radiating even from this distance.

Then, there’s Alex.

He’s…fine. Perfectly pleasant. Brown hair neatly styled, teeth blindingly white, arms outstretched. He’s the guy your mother would love. Stable. Reliable. And about as exciting as beige wallpaper.

You plaster on your brightest, most convincing smile. The one that says, "I'm thrilled to be coupled with you!"

The one that hides the tiny voice inside your head screaming, "Wrong Max!"

You step into Alex's embrace, his arms wrapping around you. He smells of generic cologne and something vaguely…linen-y.

“Hey,” he says, his voice a comfortable baritone. “You look amazing.”

“Hey,” you echo, squeezing him a little tighter than necessary, hoping to project an enthusiasm you don't feel. “You too.”

He pulls back, his eyes searching yours. “Ready for dinner?”

“Yeah,” you lie. “I'm really hungry.”

You weren't. You really weren't.

Now, standing in line for the 'aesthetical Instagram-worthy' dinner hall, you feel a knot of anxiety tighten in your stomach.

You can feel Max’s eyes on you, burning a hole in the back of your head. You refuse to meet his gaze. Instead, you focus all your attention on Alex. He's...nice.

"So," Alex says, his voice a little too loud in the suddenly hushed atmosphere. "First impressions? What do we think of the Love Island dining experience?"

You force a smile. "It's...striking. Definitely lives up to the hype." You glance around. Fairy lights twinkle in the twilight, draped across the bougainvillea-covered pergola. The tables are set with crisp white linens and gleaming silverware. It's utterly picture-perfect.

"Striking is one word for it," Alex chuckles. "I'm more concerned with the food. Hopefully, it tastes as good as it looks."

You nod, trying to appear engaged. But your attention keeps drifting back to Max. He's saying something to Em, but his eyes are fixed on you. A flicker of something you can't decipher – frustration? Regret? – flashes across his face before he quickly schools his expression.

Em, bless her heart, seems completely oblivious. She's completely engrossed in whatever Max is saying, her face alight with adoration.

He, on the other hand, looks distinctly bored. He gives her the barest of smiles, the kind that doesn't reach his eyes.

The line shuffles forward. You take a deep breath and tell yourself to focus. You're here to find love, or at least, the idea of love. You're here for the experience, the sun, the fun… the Instagram followers.

You definitely shouldn't be here obsessing over the guy who's currently paired with someone else, no matter how electrifying his presence is.

"You okay?" Alex asks, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Yeah, fine," you say, a little too quickly. "Just...a bit overwhelmed, I guess. It's all a lot to take in."

He places a reassuring hand on your arm. "I get it. It's a pressure cooker. Just remember to be yourself. That's all anyone can ask for."

Be yourself. The words ring hollow. The problem is, 'yourself' is currently battling an internal tug-of-war between playing it safe with the nice guy and succumbing to the undeniable pull of the bad boy.

And, you know, pretending to be someone else entirely for the sake of the cameras.

Finally, you reach the entrance to the dining hall. A hostess greets you with a dazzling smile and leads you and Alex to your assigned table. It's positioned strategically to give you a perfect view of… yep, you guessed it, Max and Em.

As you sit down, you subtly angled your body away from Max, towards Alex. "So, tell me about yourself, Alex," you say, trying to sound genuinely interested. "What do you do back home?"

He launches into a description of his life as a personal trainer, his passion for fitness, his dreams of opening his own gym. You nod and smile, asking appropriate questions, but your mind is elsewhere.

You catch Max’s gaze again. This time, he doesn't look away. He holds your stare, his expression unreadable.

Dinner arrives. A beautifully plated sea bass with roasted vegetables. It looks delicious, but you have no appetite. You pick at your food, making small talk with Alex, while eavesdropping on the conversations around you.

"…honestly, I think he's playing a game," you hear Mimi whisper to Lando, her eyes darting towards Oscar.

"…I'm just not feeling a spark," Elisha confides in Charles, sounding surprisingly glum.

You wonder if anyone here is actually being genuine. Or are you all just performers, vying for attention, manipulating emotions, and playing to the cameras?

"What about you?" Alex asks, pulling you back to the present. "What are you hoping to get out of this experience?"

You hesitate. The truth? The truth is, you don't really know. You came here because your friends dared you to. Because you were bored with your life. Because you secretly hoped to find something – or someone – that would ignite a spark within you.

"I'm… open to anything," you say, choosing your words carefully. "I'm looking for a connection, someone who makes me laugh, someone I can be myself with."

"And am I making you laugh?" Alex teases, a playful glint in his eye.

You force another smile. "You're definitely funny."

He leans closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Good. Because I'm definitely interested in getting to know you better."

You feel a wave of panic wash over you. This is it. This is the moment you're supposed to reciprocate, to flirt back, to signal your interest.

But you can't. Your gaze drifts back to Max, who is now staring intently at his plate, a muscle twitching in his jaw.

You swallow hard. "I'm… I'm glad to hear that, Alex." You try to sound enthusiastic, but your voice comes out flat.

The rest of the dinner passes in a blur of forced conversation and stolen glances. You avoid Max's gaze as much as possible, but you can feel his presence like a magnetic force, pulling you towards him.

You find yourself analyzing every interaction, every gesture, searching for hidden meanings, for some sign that he feels the same way.

"Since everyone is so hesitant, I'll start it. Alex, can I pull you for a chat?" Elisha says suddenly, standing up with a determined glint in her eye.

You love Elisha for this. For cutting through the artificial pleasantries and getting straight to the point. For being brave enough to risk rejection, or worse, boredom. You watch them leave, a wave of relief washing over you.

The conversational pressure, the suffocating intensity of the group setting, momentarily lifts. Now, you can finally relax, breathe and maybe think about what you should do. You wonder if you should call Max for a chat.

"Y/N," you hear someone say, a low, husky voice that sends a shiver down your spine. You turn around to see Max, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Can I speak to you for a minute?" he asks smoothly, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips.

You blink, caught completely off guard. After a moment, you recover quickly, attempting to appear nonchalant. "Okay, sure."

You stand up and follow Max to one of the sofas nestled in a secluded corner of the garden.

As you walk, you try to calm your racing heart, reminding yourself that this is just a conversation, nothing more. But deep down, you know that this is anything but ordinary.

When you two sit down, you are finally able to analyze Max's clothes. It was a simple, almost careless look, a plain white t-shirt – probably expensive – paired with dark denim jeans.

He looked effortless, like he'd just thrown it on, but you knew better. Every detail was carefully considered, designed to project an image of relaxed confidence.

"So," Max begins, leaning back against the cushions and crossing his arms. "How are you finding it so far? The Love Island experience, I mean."

You take a deep breath, trying to collect your thoughts. "It's...intense," you admit, choosing your words carefully. "Definitely more intense than I expected."

"Yeah, it can be a bit overwhelming," he agrees, his eyes never leaving yours. "Everyone's trying to figure out where they stand, who they connect with. It's like a game of chess, but with emotions."

"And a lot more strategically placed bikinis," you add, earning a chuckle from him.

"True, very true. So, have you found anyone you connect with yet? Anyone you fancy?" he asks, the question hanging in the air between you.

This is it. The moment of truth. You could tell him the truth, admit your attraction, risk everything. Or you could play it safe, protect yourself from potential heartbreak, and settle for the comfortable mediocrity of your current pairing. You open your mouth to speak, but the words catch in your throat.

"Well," you start, forcing a casual tone. "Alex is...nice. He's a good guy, and we get along well enough."

A flicker of something passes across Max’s face – disappointment? relief? – but it’s gone before you can decipher it.

"Nice is good," he says neutrally. "But is it enough? Is it sparky enough to survive the recoupling?"

The recoupling. The looming threat that hangs over every islander, the ultimate test of compatibility, the brutal reminder that this is, after all, a game.

"I don't know," you confess, your voice barely above a whisper. "I honestly don't know what I'm doing. I've been here for six hours, and I already feel like I'm drowning."

Max leans forward, his expression softening. "Hey, it's okay. Everyone feels like that at first. Just be yourself, follow your instincts, and don't be afraid to take risks."

"Easy for you to say," you retort, a hint of bitterness creeping into your voice. "You're coupled up with Em, and you seem perfectly happy."

He hesitates for a moment, his gaze dropping to his hands before looking back up at you. "Looks can be deceiving," he says quietly. "Em is great, don't get me wrong. But we're not exactly…soulmates."

Your heart skips a beat. Is he implying what you think he’s implying?

Before he could respond, a high-pitched shriek cut through the tension. “I’ve got a text!” Em, tanned and toned, was practically vibrating with excitement. The whole villa seemed to collectively hold its breath.

Max immediately helped you from the sofa, his hand lingering on your arm for a fraction of a second longer than necessary. The brief contact sent a jolt of electricity through you.

He guided you both back to the group, where Em, having dramatically uncapped her phone, began to read in her best influencer voice, “Islanders, tomorrow there’s going to be something new in the villa…or someone! Be ready to test the connections you just made! #NewArrival #TestYourLove”

The girls gasped, a chorus of nervous energy filling the air. You could see the gears turning in their heads, alliances forming and dissolving in a matter of seconds.

You, however, were still reeling from Max's earlier cryptic comment. The text only added another layer of complexity to the already overwhelming situation.

You push your way through the throng of girls, the air thick with hairspray and the scent of coconut tanning lotion. You find Hannah propped against a pillar, nervously chewing on her lip gloss applicator.

“Imagine it’s a new guy?” you ask, trying to inject a casual tone into your voice.

Hannah’s eyes dart over to where Oscar was speaking to Lando. “I think I like my couple,” she says, fiddling with the strap of her bikini. “Oscar’s…sweet.”

You suppress a smile. Sweet might be one word for it. You’d go with ‘nonchalant.’

The rest of the evening is a blur of speculation, strategy, and forced smiles. Everyone talks about the text, analyzing its implications from every possible angle.

The producers orchestrated this chaos perfectly.

Later, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, the girls gather in the dressing room, the air buzzing with a renewed sense of camaraderie.

“Party in the U.S.A.” blares from someone’s phone as they take off their makeup, revealing the slightly less glamorous reality that lies beneath the layers of foundation and bronzer.

Hannah and Elisha are having a twerk-off by the mirror, their laughter echoing through the room.

The rest cheer them on, a momentary escape from the pressure cooker that Love Island has become. You find yourself caught up in the energy, laughing along with them.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the villa, the guys are engaged in their own pre-bedtime rituals.

You can hear snippets of their conversation drifting through the open windows: talk of muscles, abs, and the merits of different protein powders.

Unbeknownst to you, Max decides to confide in Lando, a surfer with perpetually windswept hair. He trusts Lando to keep a secret.

“Mate, I think I like… Y/N,” Max says, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair.

Lando, who’s meticulously applying beard oil in front of the mirror, quirks an eyebrow. “Oh, I knew it,” he says, a smug grin spreading across his face.

Max is shocked. “How?”

Lando shrugs, touching his hair again. “The way you look at her, man. It’s obvious. Plus, she’s, like, totally your type. Smart, funny, doesn’t take herself too seriously.”

Max gulps. He hadn’t realized he was being so transparent. “But I’m coupled with Emily…” he mumbles, the sentence trailing off into the humid night air.

“Yeah, well, Emily is…Emily,” Lando says diplomatically, clearly implying that Emily, while undeniably gorgeous, might not be the intellectual sparring partner Max secretly craves.

“Look, mate, don’t do anything rash. Just…see where things go.”

As you watch everyone around you pairing off and heading to their shared beds, you feel a twinge of anxiety in your chest. You've only been on the Love Island for eight hours, but it feels like a lifetime since you've been in a healthy, loving relationship.

You broke up with your ex a few months ago, and while you've been on a few dates since then, nothing has stuck.

But now, here you are, in a villa full of beautiful people, and you've somehow found yourself coupled up with Alex. He's sweet, kind, and understanding - everything your ex wasn't.

But you can't shake the feeling of awkwardness that comes with physical intimacy after being out of the game for so long.

As you both get ready for bed, you can feel Alex trying to make you feel comfortable. He gives you a gentle kiss on the cheek as you climb into bed together.

"Are you okay?" he asks, his voice soft and concerned.

You nod, trying to put on a brave face. "Yeah, I'm just...not used to this yet," you admit.

Alex smiles gently and takes your hand in his. "It's okay," he says. "We can take things at your pace. I want you to feel safe and comfortable with me."

You squeeze his hand, grateful for his understanding. "Thanks, Alex. I appreciate that."

He snuggles down into his pillow, turning to face you. “Just relax. We’ll talk more tomorrow.”

You mimic his actions, pulling your own pillow closer. As you close your eyes, a wave of exhaustion washes over you. The day’s events, the constant scrutiny, the pressure to perform – it’s all taking its toll.

But sleep doesn't come easily. Your mind races, replaying conversations, analyzing interactions, second-guessing every word and gesture.

The villa's hum is a constant reminder that you're not alone, that everyone is watching, judging, hoping.

Tossing and turning, you finally crack open your eyes. You’re staring directly at…Max.

His face is close, too close, the faint light filtering through the villa windows painting his features in soft strokes. His dark hair is a mess, artfully disheveled, like he just rolled out of bed after a particularly good dream.

Or maybe a bad one, judging by the slight furrow in his brow.

He must be warm, because even in the dim light, you can see the sheen of a healthy glow on his skin.

He’s shirtless.

A landscape of toned muscle and subtle shadows. Your eyes trace the line of his collarbone, the curve of his shoulder, the way his chest rises and falls with each breath. A faint trail of hair leads down to where his torso disappears beneath the sheet.

You can see the faintest hint of definition in his abs, the subtle indentations that speak of workouts and natural athleticism. His chest is firm, not overly muscular but with perfectly defined pecs.

You could spend the whole day counting the individual pectoral muscles, the striations and curves highlighted by the soft villa light.

Max, with his mischievous grin, and eyes that crinkle at the corners. Max, who is coupled up with Em. Max, whose bed is situated right next to yours, separated only by a narrow space.

A space that feels infinitely wider now, under the cover of darkness.

He’s staring at you, a playful glint in his eyes. It makes you feel strangely exposed, yet also…seen. Alex is asleep beside you, chest rising and falling in steady rhythm, oblivious to the silent drama unfolding inches away.

You feel a flicker of guilt, quickly stifled by a surge of unexpected excitement. This isn't how the first night in Love Island is supposed to go.

You're supposed to be getting to know Alex, or at least faking it well enough until a better option presents itself. Not exchanging secret glances with one of the villa's heartthrobs.

You smile, a small, tentative curve of your lips. It feels ridiculously shy, like you’re a teenager again, caught staring at your crush across the school cafeteria.

Max mirrors your smile, then mouths something across the space. “Good night,” he forms the words carefully, then adds a final word you can’t quite decipher. It sounds like "Schat,".

You didn't know what it meant, maybe it was something you called a friend in his language?

You mirror him, mouthing back, "Good night,” feeling a surge of childish glee. The absurdity of the situation – lying in bed next to a sleeping stranger, communicating silently with another stranger in the dark – makes you giggle. Internally, of course.

You can’t risk waking Alex, or worse, Em. God, imagining Em's wrath makes you shiver.

Before you can attempt to decipher the mystery word, a loud clap echoes through the room.

"Lights out!" Hannah's voice booms, followed by curtains closing. Darkness descends, enveloping the room in silence.

You close your eyes, the image of Max’s smiling face burned into your memory.

What was that word he mouthed? And why did it make your heart beat a little faster?

The rest of the night passes in a fitful haze. You alternate between trying to rationalize your attraction to Max – he’s just a friendly face, a distraction from the pressure of being with Alex – and berating yourself for even considering it.

You’re coupled up with a perfectly nice guy. You should be focusing on building a connection with him, not fantasizing about the guy in the next bed. . . .

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Next Time On Love Island....

"Sorry boys," they mouthed to the boys at the back as they kissed the girls with zero shame. Their hand cupped the back of your neck. you couldn't see who i was. . . .

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