Spring 2021: Jeffrey is at home applying for jobs after losing his position during the pandemic. Johnny is living in Saratoga Springs and busy working at Siena College. Both are single, and in this modern world, how do you meet your significant other? Tinder, of course! We both swiped right and started chatting. Johnny, ever the skeptic, thought Jeffrey might be catfishing him—those profile pictures were REALLY blurry. Meanwhile, Jeffrey thought Johnny was handsome and was already brainstorming how to land a first date. Being a classic overthinker, Jeffrey took his time crafting every text. Eventually, dinner plans were set: Savoy Taproom on Lark Street in Albany. When we finally met in person, we discovered we ordered the exact same drink and dish (a sign of good taste, obviously). Conversation flowed (Jeffrey nearly choked on his dinner), and neither of us wanted the night to end, so we wandered through nearby Washington Park, talking and laughing into the evening. And just like that, our greatest adventure began!

That’s how high above sea level we were when Johnny asked Jeffrey to spend forever together. It all happened during an unforgettable trip across France. From marveling at the Louvre’s masterpieces to standing beneath the sparkling Eiffel Tower, from cheering as France won an Olympic soccer match in Nice, to savoring wines at Villars-Fontaine, each moment felt magical. But nothing could compare to the day we reached Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in Europe. On the observation deck, with the stunning Alps as our backdrop and some of our closest friends by our side, Johnny completely shocked Jeffrey with a proposal. Truth be told, the proposal almost didn’t happen! Johnny had been nervous about bringing the real ring to Europe—visions of pickpockets and mishaps loomed large. Thankfully, a $10 Amazon knockoff saved the day, and the plan stayed on track. It was perfect. A breathtaking view, a little ingenuity, an Olympic victory, and one very big yes!