It all started with a simple Instagram story—Maria Isabel at the beach, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when beach access was restricted. A curious Instagram dm from Jose popped up: “Hey! Where is that beach?” And just like that, a conversation began that would change their lives forever. What started as Instagram messages quickly turned into plans for a date. Jose, eager to meet Maria Isabel, suggested cocktails in Viejo San Juan. But given the pandemic—and the fact that Jose was still in medical school and seeing patients—Maria Isabel had one request: masks on. On February 26, 2021, they met for the first time at La Ó in Viejo San Juan, sipping cocktails and eating pizza in a "socially distant manner". The connection was instant. So much so, that Jose—still in shock at how amazing Maria Isabel was—asked her out again on a second date the next weekend. To his surprise, she said yes! They dined at Sur Barra Nikkei in Santurce, where, for the first time, Maria Isabel actually saw his face without a mask. Luckily, she still thought he was handsome! From there, their love story unfolded effortlessly. They spent their days exploring the island, beaches and enjoying each other’s company. When Jose's sister’s birthday rolled around, it was the perfect moment to have “the talk”—and they made their relationship official. Fast forward to today, Mari and Jose have built a beautiful life together in San Francisco, California, where Mari works as a payment consultant and Jose as a doctor. They share their company with their dog, Ulla, as well as friends and family. Their love has taken them on adventures across the world—spanning from Panama to Spain, to countless cities across the U.S. What started with a simple Instagram dm has turned into a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure—and the best is yet to come!