After all the controversy on last season's "The Bachelorette" with accusations being hurled that at least one of the guys had a girlfriend, ET had to ask the new "Bachelor" before the season started: Do you have a girlfriend?

"I do not have a girlfriend," declares Jake Pavelka, a 31-year-old commercial pilot from Denton, Texas. "After last season [on 'The Bachelorette,'] I really believe in the process. It does work. The emotions you feel are real. So I think I'm going to come out with a fiancée."

ET was exclusively with the new "Bachelor" for an afternoon at the beach. It was before the season started filming, so it was before Jake met any of the 25 gorgeous gals who are hoping to win his heart.

"The right girl for me -- it is not how she looks," he says. "She doesn't have to be the most attractive girl out there. She will be the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. [I am looking for someone with] values and character. Someone that's passionate and compassionate, romantic and protective."

Jake says he has had a few dates since his journey on "The Bachelorette" came to an end, but he reiterates that there is no one special in his life right now, so that won't be an issue as he weeds through the lovely ladies. But he is nonetheless concerned about bruising some hearts.

"The rose ceremonies are going to kill me," Jake admits. "I don't like hurting people, but it is the name of the game. There are some girls who are going to be left heartbroken and hurt."

"The Bachelor" premieres Monday, January 4 at 8 p.m. on ABC.