In the Spring of 2020, Jaylen balanced life between her classes at the (far superior) University of Kansas and shifts at Nekter Juice Bar in Overland Park, roughly forty minutes from her home. Meanwhile, Chase was immersed in studies at Kansas State. When the pandemic hit in March, Chase returned home unexpectedly and, eager for something to do, sought a summer job at Nekter. As the manager, Jaylen had heard all the labels: Wildcat, finance bro, frat boy. But a rumor floated through the staff—Chase was cute. Intrigued, Jaylen scheduled her shift on his first day, making sure to plan ahead so she’d be at her best. Then fate changed the plan. An uncharacteristic rush filled the store, and Jaylen asked someone to call in reinforcements. Before she could even adjust her apron, Chase walked through the back door—unannounced and three weeks early. Moments later, an employee jogged over, grinning: “You’re going to fall in love.” Jaylen chuckled and returned to cutting strawberries, dismissing the comment—until she saw him. Chase strode in, backward baseball cap and easy confidence. Jaylen’s heart skipped. She felt a flutter—a rush of butterflies. He is cute, she thought, in a heartbeat of clarity and curiosity. That small, electric moment set everything in motion. Within two weeks, they were officially dating—slow enough to feel earned, yet wild and sweet all at once. And in less than a week, Chase blurted out, “I love you”—joking that it was as accidental as calling your teacher “Mom.” But in the way his eyes softened when he said it, Jaylen knew it meant more. His confession landed softly, sincerely, and unexpectedly—just like he had.