From their first one-on-one date,Leslie Fhima and Gary Levingston stood out as one of the strongest couples on this season ofBachelor in Paradise. But last week, the show took a sharp turn, ditching the dating show format in favor of a high-stakes competition. Couples now face a series of challenges in pursuit of a cash prize, and with that shift came unexpected twists and tough decisions. Challenge winners were granted the power to eliminate a vulnerable pair, and despite their undeniable connection,Gary and Leslie were the first to fall victimto the new rules ofParadise. With such a spark between them, did their chemistry continue beyond the beach?

Gary and Leslie Were a Strong Couple on ‘Bachelor in Paradise’

When Gary arrived inParadise, every Golden lady had her eye on him. But it was Leslie he chose to ask out for a night of dancing, andtheir bond was immediate and unmistakable. AlthoughGary initially received roses and datesfrom other women, he and Leslie finally officially coupled up in Episode 6. Later that same episode, contestants competed in a challenge in which they were asked personal questions about their partners and had to place wagers on their answers. A risky bet on Gary’s part landed them in the bottom three couples, and the winning pair,BaileyandJeremy, sadlyselected Gary and Leslieto be sent home. “[Leslie] and I will continue to move forward with our journey, just in a different way,” Gary remarked as they made their exit.

Are Gary and Leslie From ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Still Together?

So is this cute couple still together? This week, Leslie sat down with the hosts ofBachelor Happy Hourto reflect on her time inParadiseand share the most recent update on where her relationship stands with Gary. For now, she revealed,the two are just close friends:

“Gary is, I can honestly say right now, one of my best friends… I’ll call him if I have a problem. He kind of talks me off the ledge a little bit. We are always there for each other. We have each other’s backs.”

bachelor-paradise

Maybe this isn’t the news we wanted, but it’s sweet to hear that they still have a meaningful place in each other’s lives. However, it seems like the door hasn’t fully closed just yet. Leslie also told theBachelor Happy Hourhosts, “All I know is that, for me,a big thing with any relationship, a romantic one for sure, I want to be friends first… I don’t know what it’s going to be, but I know that we have special places in our hearts for each other.” So is she saying there’s still a chance? Here’s hoping these Paradise lovebirds can reconnect romantically in the future, withouta game show to get in the way.

Bachelor in Paradise

instar49992156-1.jpg

Bachelor in Paradise