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\t\t<\/p>\n Carol Freeman-Branstine<\/strong> is opening up about her shocking exit from The Golden Bachelor<\/strong><\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n The 63-year-old family manager surprised viewers by quitting the show after not being picked for a one-on-one date by Mel Owens<\/strong><\/a> in the last episode that aired.<\/p>\n In a new interview, Carol<\/strong> is addressing her decision to self eliminate. <\/p>\n Keep reading to find out more\u2026<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIt was a tough decision, it really was,\u201d she told Us Weekly<\/a><\/em>. \u201cI\u2019ve never really been the one that leaves, so it was a new beginning for me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t feel like he was connected to me, and I want someone connected to me and choosing me first,\u201d Carol<\/strong> added. \u201cI decided what\u2019s best for me, and I have to protect my heart, as well. \u2018m going into this, yes, I wanted to fall in love, but in the end, I have to be okay with myself, as well.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo, I decided to part,\u201d she concluded. <\/p>\n If you missed it, this season of The Golden Bachelor<\/em> is coming to a close soon and the top three women have been revealed<\/a>!<\/p>\n <\/span><\/p><\/div>\n