The moment four new sizzling singles entered The Bachelorette Australia mansion, the original participants weren’t happy. They’d already formed bonds with Bachelorette Brooke – now, there were new contenders for her affections.
Psychologist Carissa knew the arrival of the four intruders – Millie, Jessica, Luca and William – would make a difference, to her and to Brooke.
Carissa said something felt off between her and Brooke after they discussed the loss of their loved ones.
(Image: Ten)“I thought they were all lovely people,” Carissa, 30, tells TV WEEK. “However, I felt Brooke had already developed really strong connections in the house, so them coming in later in the show would be a challenge.”
After an injury forced her to turn down a date with Brooke, Carissa waited patiently for her turn. But as she got to know her fellow contestants, her feelings became more complicated.
“I listened to the connections others were forming and felt happy for both them and for Brooke,” she says. “Love is such a beautiful thing and I’d never want stand in the way of that.
“At the same time, I was creating strong friendships in the house, so I felt like I’d be betraying others if I continued to pursue her. I had to remind myself that we all signed up to date the same person.”
After finally locking in some one-on-one time with Brooke after the go-kart group date, the mood drifted into more emotional territory as they discussed the loss of loved ones.
“I wanted to get to know her on a deeper level, but I’m not sure if this approach brought up some sad memories for both of us,” Carissa says, adding that something felt off between them.
“I don’t know what was different this time – it may have been better to keep the conversation light and fun.”
While the pair shared a little kiss, for Carissa, the occasion didn’t feel suitable to take things any further.
“We were discussing some really deep topics in relation to grief and loss,” she says. “It didn’t feel like the right time.”
Have things fizzled out for good between Carissa and Brooke?
