In a moment of sister solidarity, Catia downloaded the app. Reluctantly, she agreed to set up a profile to encourage her friend. Her intent to date was no more serious then the kiddie-sized dating pool she imagined would come from this adventure. On EJ’s end though, this stylish Guatemalan floated his way. Her love of travel and deep family roots was their uncomplicated and easy connection. Late night DM’s, turned into calls, which turned into a date. But being in different states, their time had to be intentional. Their dinner escaped into the night and the two stayed up talking, it became one of many restaurants and bars they would close out together. Before they knew it, the weekend had past, and they enjoyed laughter, exploring the town, and truly getting to know each other. Despite the miles, distance never got in their way. Every call, every moment, and every visit only deepened their bond—built on purpose, care, and the kind of love that grows with every step forward.

The blessing for Catia’s and EJ’s next chapter came from Catia’s mom. A quiet but powerful gift that set everything in motion. It was their two-year anniversary, and EJ had planned something special. Catia was busy with work, not suspecting a thing. Moving from one thing to another, EJ was softly capturing the day in photos. As evening approached, Catia was getting ready for a dinner out to celebrate their time together as a couple. Instinctively or subconsciously, she chose a white dress. They parked in the same spot where they shared their first kiss. Catia noticed right away, but EJ, trying to keep calm, brushed it off and denied it. They walked hand in hand to the restaurant, where they had their very first date. Dinner was delicious, filled with laughter, nostalgia, and quiet excitement. As they got back to the car, a familiar song began to play — “Palagi”, the first Tagalog song they had ever shared together. Catia smiled, recognizing it immediately. Before she had time to comment, EJ began to speak. He told her how much he admired her. Her hardworking nature, her passion for life, her deep faith, and the way she always cared for family. He spoke from the heart, simple and sincere. Then he handed Catia a card. Inside was a jewelry logo and tucked beside it, a jewelry cleaning cloth. She looked up, confused for just a second, until she sees EJ with a small box. Sitting there in the car, in the same spot where their story first began, EJ asked Catia to marry him. To continue their story, together.