Everyone wants to make a good impression when they head out on a first date, which must feel impossible with 22 other gorgeous women tagging along.
WATCH: The Bachelor’s Jimmy Nicholson speaks about his family
But Jay Lal did just that, bowling Bachelor Jimmy Nicholson over with her flirty game of chess on her arrival.
The 31-year-old nutritionist’s smile and charm made such an impact that the pilot gave her the key to the First Class Lounge.
A new inclusion in this season, the key gives Jay access to a private area where she can spend valuable one-on-one time with the Bachelor without other women interrupting.
“I was so shocked! The other ladies were all so intelligent and beautiful,” the Sydneysider tells WHO of being awarded the highly coveted prize.
“I remember not knowing what to say when he gave it to me, and thinking that he must have the wrong person due to my red carpet blunder, but I was very flattered.”
Jay admits she already has the perfect plan in place for how she’ll be spending her time with Jimmy to ensure she also ends up winning the key to his heart.
“I think it’s a good chance to have some alone time with Jimmy to teach him how to play chess properly,” she explains.
What were your first impressions of Jimmy?
I remember sitting in the limo peeking through the window to see if I could see the Bachelor. He looked very tall and was a good-looking man! But more importantly, as nervous as I was, once it was my turn to meet him he had a very calming presence. This was the first thing that attracted me to him.
Is he someone you can see yourself falling in love with?
Absolutely! He left a great impression on me. With his confidence and the little glimpse I saw of his geeky side, he is easily the type of person I could fall in love with.
Why do you think Jimmy gave you the key to the First Class Lounge?
I asked him this. He said it was because I made him feel comfortable and that he could just be himself with me. It was very nice to hear. I have to feel comfortable with a partner and I want them to feel that way with me, too. Of course there has to be that physical attraction as well, which was definitely there with Jimmy.
How did the other women react?
I thought everyone was happy for me. I realise that while most of the girls were, it became apparent that some weren’t as time went on.
What made you sign up to The Bachelor?
After finishing uni, I tried to find my place in the world, dabbling in different careers and living in a few cities. When I moved to Sydney, I fell in love with my life and myself. But something was missing. I wanted to find that special person to share the life I loved with, and hopefully start a family. I’d tried several online dating apps, which didn’t work out. So, when I saw an advertisement for participants for The Bachelor, I thought I’d give it a go.
What do you look for in a partner?
I look for someone who has confidence without being arrogant. Someone who knows what they want and will work hard to get it. Most important is that the person is kind and caring. Looks fade and lust runs out, so it’s important to find someone with good values and morals.
The Bachelor airs Wed-Thu., 7.30pm on Network Ten
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