Following the unexpected eliminations last week, including Mark “Hot Dad” Anderson, “The Golden Bachelorette” dives deep into the emotional moments of Hometown Dates in Episode 6, which is now available on Hulu.

Joan Vassos, 61, meets the families of the four remaining contestants, with two of them conveniently located near Chicago — salon owner Pascal, 69, and sales manager Jordan, 61. The atmosphere becomes quite awkward at times, especially during her visit to Chock’s family in Wichita, Kansas, where they hold a remembrance ceremony for his late mother.

Attention, viewers: ABC’s reality dating show has no qualms about showcasing some uncomfortable moments. Episode 6 kicks off with Pascal’s cheerful, gap-toothed grandson asking Joan, “Have you kissed my grandpa?”

Joan navigates this question—and many other tricky moments—gracefully, staying genuine throughout.

With a bashful laugh, Joan admits, “OK, I did,” while playfully hiding her face in her hand. “It’s awkward, I know.”

Things could have been much more complicated. Here’s a recap of what unfolded.

Pascal Brings Excitement but also Hesitation

Pascal, a charming Frenchman, stands out in the competition by whisking Joan off on a thrilling visit filled with Champagne. He even takes her for a ride in a sports car, speeding through a picturesque neighborhood that probably sparked some complaints on local forums. Joan is infatuated with him and his sophisticated style; this time, he is in control, both literally and figuratively (after expressing dissatisfaction when she drove on their first date).

His salon, Pascal pour Elle, is impressive, and his enthusiastic employees are quick to return to work when he claps. Yet when it’s time for a toast, he opts for Champagne with Joan instead. His family is lovely, and his son even sports a hairstyle reminiscent of Johnny Depp’s look from “21 Jump Street.” The exquisite charcuterie board practically screams, “Propose now!”

However, Pascal reveals his emotional barriers, explaining that his seemingly distant demeanor stems from a recent heartbreak. Joan begins to wonder if her charming French suitor truly feels the same about her.

Joan shares her fears: “My biggest worry is picking him, only for him not to choose me.” She confides this to Pascal’s daughter, reflecting the hesitation many are feeling.

Jordan Opens Up Yet Faces Closure

Jordan, similarly reserved, feels he may not have much of a chance with Joan. He tries to lighten the mood with local food favorites and boldly claims Lou Malnati’s serves the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago, pairing it with the nostalgic “Chicago Handshake,” which mixes a shot of Jeppson’s Malört with an Old Style lager.

At home, his warm family encourages him to be open with Joan, urging him not to hold back. Joan similarly prompts him to open his heart while sitting on his Chicago porch. He starts to, but the goodbye kiss tells another story: Jordan pulls away first.

This marks the end of his journey on the show. Yet, Joan manages to navigate the situation with a diplomatic excuse, saying, “Time was not our ally,” in reference to Jordan’s hesitance.

Guy Showcases Lake Tahoe’s Beauty

Emergency room doctor Guy, 66, showcases his hometown of Reno, Nevada, during a picturesque boat trip on Lake Tahoe’s stunning blue waters. While talking with his sisters at home, he becomes emotional, realizing, “I never thought I’d say this: I can love again, and be loved.”

Guy’s past is slightly tumultuous, as his ex-wife sought a restraining order in 2021 after their divorce, although she later withdrew the request, which led the judge to deny the order. His supportive family stands firmly behind his potential journey toward new love. Joan appreciates his attributes, describing him as “sweet” and a “good listener,” delighting in their connection. Ultimately, Guy earns a rose.

Chock Brings Joan to a Family Memory Event, While Pondering Proposals

There’s no formal guide on how to meet your partner’s family in the context of a televised memorial gathering. This scene is quite unique. Following the passing of Chock’s mother, Jill, he temporarily left the Bachelor Mansion during Episode 4 to attend her memorial. Amid touching memories of his mom, the conversation unexpectedly shifts to introducing Joan as a potential new family member. Despite the awkwardness that TV editing can’t quite conceal, Joan maintains her composure and even joins in a touching moment by planting dirt around the memorial tree.

Chock’s late fiancée’s father sweetens the mood when he tells Joan warmly, “You’re family if you want to be.” And Chock, wanting this deeply, seems more excited about this than any of his cherished Chevy Camaro dreams. Their heartfelt exchanges, filled with affectionate “I missed you” statements, create a lively atmosphere. Their drawn-out goodbye kisses could make the local business council proud. “I’m falling for you,” Chock admits.

“These are the words that resonate with me,” Joan replies.

In a classic rom-com moment, Chock initiates a sweet goodbye kiss (which Joan joyfully returns) before she gets into the car.

Who Received a Rose and Will Join for Fantasy Suites in Tahiti?

At the rose ceremony, Joan dazzles in a shimmering burnt-orange Randi Rahm gown paired with elegant Dena Kemp diamond earrings. Pascal, donned in a black suit, can’t hide his excitement at the possibility of receiving a rose, and he does. Both Josh and Chock are also awarded roses. However, Jordan, unfortunately, does not receive one and appears devastated, but Joan walks him to his vehicle to console him.

With disappointment behind them, she returns, ready to celebrate. The group’s next destination? The stunning island of Tahiti for Fantasy Suites. Pascal humorously points out, “They speak French there,” while Chock, confidently eyeing a bigger prize, asserts, “Joan better accept my proposal.”