Abbie continued: "This is something I did not expect in 2019. Sex is essential to a successful relationship for me, as is sexual chemistry and the ability to express that comfortably with my partner. I saw commentary around my sexuality (rightly) calling out slut shaming and double standards regarding my pash sessions with Matt, with responses of "I'm not slut shaming her she is just manipulative/dumb/aggressive/only wanting sex".
"To insinuate that any relationship is less valid because of a strong physical connection is counterintuitive - the defining factor between a platonic and romantic relationship is physcial expressions of affection. I saw many comments about me having "nothing between my ears" or that I was "so insecure she can't talk to him so they just kiss". The public see ten minutes of a twelve hour date, it is insulting to both myself and Matt to assume he took me right until the end purely for a snog."
Abbie finished off by perfectly surmising why certain people feel uncomfortable with a woman expressing her sexuality (as opposed to a man), and it's because for too long women who have been deemed 'too sexy' are viewed as a 'threat'. Because for someone to be sexy often means they are confident, and society can't always handle confident women.
Clearly.
"I'd like those who think that I was manipulative to TRULY examine why you believe that. On most occasions, it comes down to a core belief that a woman who is "seducing" a man has ultrior motives, while a man doing the same is merely being romantic.
"If it isn't that, it is based off the opinion voiced of other contestants on the show, not my actions. I was always honest, authentic and expressive which can sometimes rub people the wrong way. It's okay to not like me - it is not okay to assume that I am less of a person or less worthy of love because I like to have sex and can talk freely and openly about it," Abbie finished.
A bunch of former and current Bachelor stars took to the comment section to show their support, with last season's 'villain' Alisha writing: "In conclusion, we stan harder than ever before."
While Newcastle cutie Elly Miles wrote: "I love that you’ve finally been able to defend yourself Abs 💖👏🏻"
Meanwhile, Megan from The Bachelorette and Jessica from Matt Agnew's Bachelor season also showed Abbie the love and support she deserves.
We stan.