It was a chilly Barcelona evening in December 2023, Nicole’s family was exhausted after a long day of sightseeing. But Nicole? Oh no, she wasn’t ready to call it a night. With the spirit of adventure in her soul (and maybe a little cava in her system), she grabbed her phone and let fate — or rather, her thumbs — do the work. Enter Bumble. Meanwhile, across the city, Chris was also swiping away, hoping to find someone who shared his love of dogs, travel, and tapas. When Nicole’s profile popped up, he didn’t just swipe right — he practically did a celebratory fist pump. Nicole, equally intrigued by Chris’s easy-going charm and one particularly questionable long-haired photo, swiped right too. And just like that, it was a match. That very night, they met in a cozy little wine bar tucked away in the Gothic Quarter. They laughed and bonded over their interest in running, love for dogs, and mutual confusion about why Spaniards eat dinner at midnight, and sparks flew. But all good things must come to an end, right? Nicole left Spain with a heavy heart, convinced their story was over. But Chris? He was already booking a flight to Toronto. One visit turned into many, and before she knew it, Nicole was heading to Austin, where the BBQ was almost as smokin’ as their budding love. Long-distance wasn’t exactly a rom-com montage, but with late-night Ted Lasso marathons and endless FaceTime calls over surprise uber eats deliveries, they made it work. Nicole eventually met Chris’ family in Ohio and Austin, while Chris ventured to the Philippines to meet Nicole’s friends and family. Then, on a chilly November evening after delicious steak frites, Chris popped the question at the dog park they both frequent with their stunning corgi, Charlotte. And in true Nicole fashion, she said yes — after confirming Charlotte approved, of course. Now, they’re overjoyed to celebrate not only their love but the merging of two worlds and the people who have shaped their journey, hoping that those they cherish most can be there to share in this special moment. Barcelona sparked the flame, but love — with a little help from Coach Lasso — kept it burning. As Ted would say, “Believe.” And they did.