A source revealed that Dakota Mortensen is officially now dating Shinia Powell, who’s been his “steady source of support.” Meanwhile, Taylor Frankie Paul hinted at her own relationship in cryptic texts. (According to reports, Taylor is dating the winner of her season of The Bachelorette, Doug Mason.)
Last season on Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Taylor slammed Shinia on social media after Taylor learned of her hookup with Dakota (though Taylor and Dakota were both single at the time, and Taylor was preparing to go on The Bachelorette). Fans also learned that Taylor and Dakota were still hooking up around that time.
Now, Taylor and her ex are in the midst of a contentious custody battle. Both stars have accused the other of abuse, and Taylor reportedly can only see their child during supervised visits.
According to sources speaking to TMZ, Shinia and Dakota began dating a few months back, and they’ve been enjoying each other’s company, though they aren’t exclusive.
An insider said she’s been “a steady source of support” for him during difficult times, as he doesn’t have immediate family members living close by. The source also said they started as friends before the relationship evolved into something deeper, as they’re now navigating what that means for the couple and their kids.
Shinia has a four-year-old son and six-year-old daughter, while Dakota has a two-year-old son with Taylor. The source claimed that Shinia and Dakota know that their relationship is going to attract attention, but they want their privacy respected while they “work as a team to move forward in a healthy way” during this tumultuous time.
Recently, Shinia posted photos from an Arizona trip. In one image, the outline of a man could be seen with her, and many people speculated that it was Dakota. In the comments, critics bashed Shinia for being with him.
Around the same time, Taylor on Instagram hinted at her own relationship, as she posted screenshots of her texts with a mystery someone.
“No I do not want to stop talking,” said the person texting Taylor. “I think we need to establish a bit more of a healthier communication pattern.”
“Agreed,” Taylor responded.
“Call me,” said the other person.
“I will once Ever leaves if that’s okay? 🫶 unless it’s urgent,” replied Taylor.
“Aww you’re with Ever, no worries enjoy your time with him,” said the other person. “Just shoot me a call whenever you get a chance.”
In the caption of her post, Taylor wrote, “Perfect sound for us – he’s actually healthy.”
Image credit: @taylorfrankiepaul/Instagram