No cause for concern, old leaves die. The shade is probably not helping but it would have occurred regardless. When do you pollinate? It is strange they haven't taken that is a good size plant it is capable of supporting several fruit at that size. Make sure you are pollinating in the morning and try tieing a male blossom shut the night before it is supposed to open. That will ensure you have plenty of pollen for hand pollination.

Well, that is 4 plants, not just 2, and I pollinate first thing in the morning ~7 ish when both males and females are fully open and before it gets too hot. Also, when I see a female flower about to open I water the night before (as opposed to the morning) so the flowers are dry in the morning. Thanks for your help.

Well, that is 4 plants, not just 2, and I pollinate first thing in the morning ~7 ish when both males and females are fully open and before it gets too hot. Also, when I see a female flower about to open I water the night before (as opposed to the morning) so the flowers are dry in the morning. Thanks for your help.