Despite the beautiful backdrop of Ireland, Episode 9 kicked off with a deep heaviness. Kaitlyn had a lot on her mind and it was clear hard decisions were coming.
Back at the hotel, the guys were still reeling from the fact Chris went home. Then there was a knock on the door. It was a date card with Ben H.'s name on it.
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During their date, they played on Innisfallen Island. As the night went on Ben H. shared his deepest fear, that he may be unlovable. (Somehow I don't think that will be an issue.) There is definitely something super sweet about Ben H. But I have feeling he won't be the last man standing.
Joe, Shawn and Nick got the group date and spent the day with Kaitlyn at Killarney National Park. No surprise, Shawn was the first to steal her away. They seemed to get back on track, little did he know she was about to drop a bombshell.
Just as she was about to tell him that she had sex with his nemesis, they were interrupted by Nick. Needless to say, Shawn walked away thinking things were all good. He had no idea what was coming!
I loved watching Joe open up about his feelings during his time with Kaitlyn. He even admitted he was in love with her. Sadly, his excitement was short lived when she revealed they weren't on the same page.
He did not take it well and was cold as he walked away. I can't say I blame him. He laid it all on line only to be rejected.
After that goodbye, Kaitlyn didn't feel like handing out the rose, but she did tell Shawn they needed some more time together. Little did he know what was coming (cue the dramatic music.)
The news of her intimate encounter with Nick pushed Shawn over the edge. Instead of talking it through, he spent what seemed like an eternity in the restroom. When he finally returned, he told her he would "man up" and fight for her.
Later, Chris Harrison told the guys there would not be a cocktail party before the rose ceremony. That meant Kaitlyn already knew who was going home.
Shawn's name was called for the first rose and he pulled her aside. He was clearly struggling. After getting some things off his chest, he accepted the rose.
Why does he have to be so dramatic? It sure feels like he enjoys drawing attention to himself.
Ben H.'s name was called next, and Nick got the final rose. That meant it was the end of the road for Jared!
As she walked him out, he was a complete gentleman. He even offered her his jacket.
Seriously, what a classy guy! He took it like a champ and even continued to compliment her during their final moments. My heart broke even more during his exit interview. He was so distraught as he talked about his feelings for Kaitlyn.
Wow. All I can say is wow. As I write this I'm still in shock about the fact she sent him home. What was she thinking!?
Despite my distress that Jared is gone, it's time to move on to the overnight dates.
Nick was up first. After spending the day together, he opened up about his lack of respect for Shawn.
Then it was time to move on to the overnight part of the date. No surprise he accepted the invitation to spend the night as a couple in the fantasy suite.
I have to be honest. I'm not a fan of Nick. I know that's a shocker. I get that the chemistry is there, but what else is he bringing to the table? I will be seriously disappointed if he's the last man standing.
Why do I have this sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach that he will be?
Meanwhile, Shawn was intent on confronting Nick. I think everyone saw that coming.
Their hatred was clear as they hurled accusations at each other. Midway through their confrontation we were left with a "to be continued."
Now we have to wait until next week to find out how it all ends. Be sure and tune in Monday night on KSAT 12.