We met the modern way — through a mutual friend, and from our very first conversation, something just clicked. What started as online chats quickly became daily calls, late-night talks, and eventually, falling asleep on FaceTime together. It all felt so natural, so easy — like we had known each other forever. We became inseparable before we ever met in person. When we first started talking, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Tien is two years younger than me, and I had my doubts—was he ready for a real relationship? Was he mature enough? I was nervous. We’d only been talking on the phone for two weeks, but when he planned a trip to Orlando, I knew that meeting him in person would be the deciding moment. And then, there he was. From the moment we met, every doubt melted away. He was exactly the same person I had been getting to know over the phone—funny, kind, respectful, and genuinely thoughtful. There was no awkwardness, no pressure. It was easy—so easy. Being around him just felt right. What started as a conversation quickly turned into something so much more. Looking back, it’s hard to believe we almost didn’t meet. But from that very first day, we both knew: this was the start of something real. The first time we met in person was when I picked Tien up at the airport (only 2 weeks after we started talking). Tien had been warned by a friend not to go — “What if it’s a setup?” they said. But he trusted his gut (and thankfully, didn’t get catfished!). I, on the other hand, was too nervous to think about anything else besides him meeting my family. But those nerves vanished the moment I saw him playing with my niece and nephews. Watching him connect with them so effortlessly melted my heart. It was even better than I imagined. One of our favorite memories is when we were waiting in line at Universal Studios, one of us (hint: not him) decided to make it official and asked the other to be their boyfriend. I even took off my Carter ring to place on his pinky, but only to take it back after. Til this day, he calls me an Indian-giver . Lol! The timing, the moment, the laughter — it was perfectly us. Over time, our bond only deepened. We became each other's best friend, safe space, and greatest adventure. After a year of long-distance dating, we knew it was time to take the next step and start building a life together. I (Lisa) knew I was in love with Tien when he visited and I told him I was going to the temple to spend time with my dad. Even though he practices a different religion and had rarely been to a temple, he said he wanted to come. Later, I asked him what he prayed about, and he said, “I asked your dad for his blessing to date you.” That moment made my heart stop — I knew, without a doubt, he was everything I had prayed for. Tien says he fell in love with me (Lisa) when I made the decision to leave everything behind in Florida to move to Texas with him. He had just become an uncle, and I didn’t want him to miss those precious moments with the kids he’d one day be their favorite uncle to. That choice — to leave my family and start a new chapter together — meant the world to him, and it changed everything. Tien's patience, sense of humor, and kind heart have always made me feel seen and understood. And he says he fell in love with how genuine, sweet, affectionate, and caring I am — or as he puts it, everything about me. And then came the proposal. Tien told me we were doing a couples photoshoot to help a friend build her portfolio. But when I walked in, I was met with candles, rose petals, and a glowing “Marry Me” sign. I was in complete shock — it was beautiful and heartfelt. We’re beyond excited to start this next chapter of our lives surrounded by the people who have supported us from the beginning. Thank you for being part of our journey.