Victoria and Cole have known of each other for most of their lives - in fact, they were on the same soccer team back in fourth grade. But it wasn’t until high school that their paths truly crossed. Their chemistry teacher, in what turned out to be a fateful seating chart decision, placed them at the same lab table. Whether Victoria texted Cole for help with homework or just as an excuse to talk to him is still up for debate - but either way, it marked the beginning of their friendship that would eventually turn into something much more. As their friendship grew through high school, they found themselves spending hours talking, often with Victoria picking Cole up since he didn’t have his license yet. Even when the world shut down in 2020, Victoria and Cole found creative ways to keep their connection strong and continue going on “dates,” no matter the circumstances. They both chose to attend the same community college, completing their associate’s degrees before transferring to Illinois State University where they got their first apartment together. Not long after moving in, Victoria suggested getting a cat despite the fact that neither of them were particularly “cat people.” But when they met a little gray kitten named Zola, they couldn’t resist. It took a while for all three of them to warm up to each other, but soon Zola became part of the family. After graduating from ISU, they moved back to Mendota for a few months. While Victoria prepared for her nursing boards, Cole was busy job hunting and secretly planning his proposal. In July 2024, at the very same spot where they first spent time together in high school, Cole asked Victoria to marry him. She said yes, surrounded by the love and support of their family and friends. Not long after, both Victoria and Cole found jobs in Madison, Wisconsin, and moved to start their next chapter. Within six months of settling into their new apartment, they decided Zola could use a friend and welcomed another cat, Cody, into their home. Victoria and Cole have truly grown up together. Their relationship, built on friendship and laughter, has carried them through every milestone, from school and new jobs to new cities and two mischievous cats. They continue to support and love one another through every stage of life, always knowing that, no matter what comes next, it will be Victoria and Cole.