Every love story begins somewhere — theirs began with tours, waffles, and a frozen lasagna. Alyx and Zach first met at Bethel, where by mere happenstance, they were placed side by side in the Tours Department. Between greeting guests and sharing long, laughter-filled conversations, they became fast friends. Alyx’s first impression of him was simple enough: “Cute, but maybe a tad quirky.” She never suspected that this cheerful, slightly scatterbrained boy would one day become the love of her life. Zach, on the other hand, had plans of his own. He would linger far longer than necessary at attendant spots, talking with Alyx when he was supposed to be working — though one might say he was, in a way, hard at work on a very different sort of assignment. One day, he invited her over for dinner. Alyx, ever practical, wasn’t entirely confident in his culinary skills, so she sweetly asked if she could bring a frozen lasagna “just in case.” (She didn’t, in the end — but the thought of it still makes them laugh.) After that, Zach found new ways to make her smile. While they worked in the main lobby, he began hiding her travel mug and tablet, leaving her little hints and clues to find them. What began as a game became their own secret language — playful, warm, and full of quiet affection. Not long after, Zach invited her over again, this time to make waffles — Alyx’s very favorite food. She couldn’t go, but she thought the offer was irresistibly sweet (and maybe just a touch flirty?). From there, things unfolded as naturally as a sunrise. Their friendship deepened without fanfare, until one day they realized they were no longer simply friends, but something far more extraordinary. Ten months later, their days are filled with the things they love most — lingering in bookstores, cooking side by side, sharing music and laughter. From waffles to wedding bells, theirs is a story tender and genuine, sweet and a little bit silly — the sort of love story that feels as if it came right out of a novel.