It all started on Bumble. Matt and Melisa swiped right, and before long, they were chatting about everything under the sun— from favorite ice-cream flavors to their mutual love for video games. After a few days of messaging back and forth, they finally decided it was time to meet in person. Their first date was at Punchbowl Social, a vibrant barcade full of games, food, and laughs. They shared some boozie banana milkshakes, got competitive over a game of giant Jenga, and quickly realized they had an undeniable connection. It was one of those rare moments where everything just clicked. Little did they know that only two weeks later, COVID-19 would cause Chicago to go into full lockdown. (DUNDUNDUNNNNNNN) As the world shut down, they had to get creative. With the pandemic keeping them at home, their dates moved into the living room, but that didn’t stop the fun! They spent nights binge-watching Netflix and Crunchyroll while snacking on Matt's homemade popcorn. They also cooked together, made countless charcuterie boards, played games, and took long walks in the park, enjoying deep conversations about everything and anything. Their connection grew deeper, proving that love doesn’t need a fancy dinner or an exotic vacation to flourish—it just needs time, care, and resourcefulness. Fast forward a bit, and Matt got the call he had been waiting for—his DREAM job at Blizzard Entertainment! It was an opportunity that would take their relationship to new heights, but it also meant a big move. So, with a sense of excitement and a little bit of nervousness, they packed up their lives and moved to California. The West Coast was calling, and they answered together. Now, Matt and Melisa live in sunny SoCal, where they continue to treat each date as if it's their first. They enjoy exploring their new state — discovering hidden gems, sampling local coffee shops, whale-watching, dancing the night away at Emo Nites in Los Angeles, playing board games with their friends, and of course, gaming together in comfy-cozies. Along the way, they expanded their family, adopting their sweet cat Jeni to join their already beloved Artemis, who they had adopted back in Chicago. From coast to coast, Matt and Melisa’s journey has been filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories—and they’re just getting started! The next chapter begins.