In a heart-warming conclusion to the hit reality show, Barry 'Bear' Myrden, 61, declared his love for Sunny Long, 58, on Sunday's finale of The Golden Bachelor.
A Secret Romance Blossoms
Despite filming concluding months ago, the couple have successfully kept their relationship alive, confessing to a series of clandestine meetings. To avoid public detection, they orchestrated a number of secret hookups at various Airbnb properties.
'There were a few secret meetings at Airbnbs,' Sunny exclusively told Woman's Day. 'We had to show up at different times and sort of rush in. We couldn't stand by the windows.'
Describing the excitement of their covert arrangements, she added, 'I think you said it was a bit of fun sneaking around, there was a bit of excitement? You know, it was a bit, he's Mr Bond and I'm his Bond girl.'
A Future Together?
In a revelation that will delight fans, Bear hinted that marriage could be on the cards for the smitten pair. When probed about a potential engagement, the engineer stated, 'We've got a lot of things to discuss.'
Sunny confirmed the depth of their connection, stating they 'have huge feelings for each other'. However, they are choosing to take their relationship slowly for the time being.
'Both of us want to see our love grow organically, so we're going to take it one step at a time,' the CEO explained, emphasising their desire for a natural progression.
The Final Choice and a Diamond Ring
The emotional finale saw Bear make his final decision, choosing Sunny over runner-up Janette. In a profoundly moving speech, he praised her resilience and character.
'You amaze me with your resilience. You blow me away. You're a force of nature,' Bear told a tearful Sunny. 'You deserve somebody to lift you up and never clip your wings. When I think about the future, I can't imagine doing it without you.'
An overwhelmed Sunny responded, 'For me, my dark days are gone and bright days are here because of you. I can't wait to go on this journey with you in life.'
To cement their commitment, Bear presented Sunny with a diamond commitment ring, prompting her to declare, 'My heart is filled with love and joy and happiness, and I'm the happiest woman alive.'
The couple sealed the moment with mutual declarations of 'I love you,' confirming that their televised romance had successfully transitioned into a genuine, and ongoing, love story.