It all started on August 1, 2022, with a call to 9-1-1… That evening, while protecting the citizens of Castro Valley, I got a dispatch to Jason's house in Castro Valley, because he wanted to file a police report. Someone had written a check in his name and stolen $6,000. I drove to Jason’s house and took the report. While there, we bonded over Texas and chatted about mutual acquaintances. After leaving him with the report number and a Marsy’s card, we thought that would be the end of it. But Jason thought I was cute and honestly, I thought he was cute, too! The next morning, a mutual friend asked if she could give Jason my number. I said no, and went on with my day. About a month later, while working a mandatory shift at the jail, I found Jason’s dating profile while scrolling through my phone. Excited, I tried to save it and tell all my friends, but when I opened my phone again, his profile was gone! I searched for the rest of my shift but couldn’t find it. After reaching out to friends (including Brittany), they all said, “Just add him on Instagram!” Nervously, I did. On September 4, 2022, he sent the first message: “Hey! How’s it going?” We hit it off right away. Soon after, we had our first date and have been together ever since. Not long after that, we moved in together, and Jason quickly realized what he was getting into: it was me, Michelle, three dogs, two parrots, and three chickens. But honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. On June 29, 2024, we left for a much-needed getaway to Monterey. We stayed at the Monterey Tides, right on the beach with a gorgeous ocean view. On June 30th, we planned to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but got there early. Jason suggested we stop by Lovers Point first, and I happily agreed. We sat together on the rocks, watching the ocean and the squirrels, soaking in the moment. Then Jason asked if I was ready to leave. When I stood up, he stopped me and said he had a question. “How much do you love me?” he asked. I laughed, knowing he always wanted something when he asked that. He asked if we could stop by the Star Wars store (because, if you know Jason, you know he loves Star Wars). Annoyed, I said no and started to walk away. “No, seriously. I have a question for you,” he said. When I turned back, there he was down on one knee, holding a ring with a HUGE diamond. I was speechless for a moment, then of course, I said YES! Now the adventure truly begins, and we’re so excited for all the chapters ahead together.