The story began back in September 2012, all the way back in 6th grade. At first, neither of us was particularly interested in the other. We knew of each other, but that was about it. Our friend groups overlapped, so we’d bump into each other here and there over the years, just quick run-ins that barely surpassed a hi and bye. Fast forward five years to September 2017, senior year. Suddenly, we weren’t just two people who knew each other from afar; we were classmates… seated right next to each other. Same math class, same last name, same assigned seats. That’s when the curiosity kicked in. A little teasing, a little poking for reactions, passing gum, trading help on homework… tiny excuses to talk that just kept growing. Staying after class became a thing. One of us actually needed the help, the other one stayed “just because.” We still didn’t finish what we were supposed to, so while walking out together, right before getting into the car, out came the smoothest (or least smooth) line of the year: “Can I have your number?” And that tiny moment? That’s pretty much where everything really began.