"Chellace" is setting the narrative straight. Following the denial by Michelle "Chelley" Bissainthe and Ace Green's loved ones of online speculations claiming a preexisting romance before their arrival in Fiji for Love Island USA, the duo openly acknowledged that their prefilm acquaintance subtly influenced their dynamics within the villa. In a joint interview with Variety, published on July 11th, Ace revealed, "It's an open secret that Chelley and I knew each other beforehand. We had a heart-to-heart, acknowledging our mutual awareness but agreeing that it didn't necessitate us pairing up instantaneously. We're here to embark on a journey of discovery, seeking our respective partners."
Despite their immediate rapport, Ace, the dancer, opted to couple up with fellow Islander Amaya "Papaya" Espinal during the Peacock reality show's initial recoupling. He clarified, "I yearned to explore things with Amaya and observe where our bond could lead. I was intent on deepening my connection with her."
However, when it became evident that Ace and Amaya lacked romantic chemistry, they drifted apart, paving the way for Ace and Chelley to reconnect a few days later. Some viewers perceived their actions as strategic maneuvers within the villa, but Ace insisted he was merely being "deliberately forthcoming" in his conversations.
"Entering this experience, I already possessed a fan base, and I didn't want to adopt the entertainer's mindset of doing anything for attention," the 22-year-old emphasized. "It wasn't about that. It was about transparency and urging my fellow contestants, 'We need to communicate more if you're interested in someone. Clarify your disinterest to avoid misunderstandings and eliminate perceptions of ulterior motives.'"
"I was never strategic," he added. "I expressed my feelings candidly every time. It was never a case of Ace being confusing. If you have feelings, confront me about them, or I'll pull you aside to clear any air."
Chelley, 27, entered the villa with the intent of maximizing her experience by fostering connections with every contestant. She elaborated, "It's about exploring and understanding others. I wanted to explore everyone. I made that intention clear from day one. The girls felt the same. Not everyone adhered to it, but I always advocated for exploring each other's connections."
As for Chelley and Ace's future, after branding themselves "exclusive" just before departing Fiji in the July 11th episode, the couple anticipates their relationship to transcend their villa days. "We'll take it one day at a time," Ace shared. "We're still discovering each other beyond villa life. Reality is vastly different from what America witnesses. I'm thrilled to nurture our bond and enhance our communication."
