Golden Bachelor season 2 contestant Gerri couldn't believe she was the recipient of Mel Owens' coveted first impression rose during the Wednesday, September 24, premiere. "I was absolutely shocked," Gerri exclusively shared with Us Weekly while on set for the first group date. "I had no idea and I was just so thankful. But I just could not even imagine." Gerri noted that her connection with Mel was "very dearing" to her, explaining that the pair talked about her late husband and how she raised her children. "Mel said that it touched his heart," Gerri added.