Former star of The Bachelor Matt James isn't quite ready to publicly declare his love for Rachael Kirkconnell, and for good reason. While the two are back together, Matt seems to know they're a controversial pair amongst Bachelor Nation fans. After all, Rachel's racially insensitive actions didn't just (temporarily) break them up. The 24-year-old's infamous social media posts also caused ripples that are still being felt in Bachelor Nation. Rachael took accountability, apologized, and asked for another chance on After The Final Rose. Matt seemed resistant at the time and said she still had work to do. Clearly, something changed his mind.

Reconciliation rumors started in April, thanks to a tweet from Reality Steve and photos of the two in New York City. Sources close to Matt were quick to downplay the meeting, claiming it was just for closure and that he had zero interest in getting back together. Soon afterward, however, Matt himself confirmed they were giving things another shot. While they continue to be spotted out together, Matt and Rachael have not made it official on social media. Given how fraught the situation is, the former football player is being very careful.

Related: The Bachelor: Everything To Know About Matt James' Mom Patty

Recently, a source told Page Six“They are back together, but Matt is hesitant to publicly and outrightly confirm it right now because it’s still fresh and they still have issues to work through." The source also implied public opinion is a factor in how he handles the reconciliation. "Rachael already faced scrutiny for her past, and now all eyes have shifted to Matt, so he’s feeling pressure to set a good example for other black men."  Those feelings were in line with comments Matt made on both The Bachelor and After The Final Rose. The source added, "He’s aware that people are not going to be happy that he jumped back into a relationship with Rachael so soon. So while he is happy to have her in his life again, he is not ready to scream it from the rooftops yet.”

Rachael Kirkconnell and Matt James sat together on After The Final Rose

Given the severity of the issues behind the breakup, it's smart to let things play out in private first. Although public opinion is not the most important thing, it's understandable that it would affect how Matt handles this relationship. Some fans previously chided Matt for knowing it was a bad look to publicly date Rachael, but still doing so anyway. However, there are surely other fans who hope she has learned better, and are rooting for love.

It's anyone's guess what happens next. One thing's for sure – viewers certainly have whiplash. Especially after the on-again/off-again drama of Clare Crawley and Dale Moss. In some ways, this chaotic aftermath is fitting for an especially messy The Bachelor season.

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Source: Page Six