Once upon a time, in the vast digital landscape of online dating, Nicole and Somphone's paths converged in a serendipitous encounter on a platform called Coffee Meets Bagel. Little did they know that their journey would unfold with a captivating mix of baseball, unexpected hurdles, and the discovery of true connection. It all began when they matched, their virtual worlds colliding with curiosity and anticipation. They embarked on an adventure that took shape in the form of their first date—a Giants baseball game. It was Somphone’s first time going to a baseball game, hoping the magic of the game would help keep the conversation flowing effortlessly between them. Excitement coursed through their veins as they eagerly anticipated the memorable moments ahead. As they arrived at the stadium, the scent of freshly mowed grass and the electric buzz of the crowd enveloped them. They joined the line for a mouthwatering crab sandwich, the tantalizing aroma filling the air. However, fate had a twist in store for them. Just as they reached the front, the cash machine broke, causing an unforeseen delay. Patiently, they stood side by side, laughing and conversing, turning a seemingly inconvenient moment into an opportunity to deepen their connection. An hour passed by, and although they missed a significant portion of the game, their spirits remained undampened. As they made their way back to their seats, clutching the precious crab sandwich that had become a symbol of their shared experience, fate, once again, had a different plan. In a heartbreaking turn of events, a moment of ignorance cast a dark shadow over their joyful day. A thoughtless comment, laced with prejudice, was directed at them by one of the attendants. Oblivious to the situation, Somphone continued chatting animatedly, unaware of the weight that had settled upon Nicole’s heart. As the game progressed, Nicole’s silence grew, a veil of hurt descending upon her. As Somphone, armed with his impeccable memory, recalls, it was days later (as Nicole playfully insists, it was 10 minutes later), Nicole vulnerably shared with him the painful incident that had transpired. His heart sank, realizing how oblivious he had been, mistakenly assuming Nicole’s silence was a reflection of her feelings towards him. He admitted his oversight, confessing that he had mistaken her withdrawal for disinterest. Lightening the moment with a touch of humor, he teased that perhaps Nicole harbored a disdain for him due to his allegiance to the LA Lakers. Inwardly, he questioned whether it was too early to reveal such a quirk about himself. Fast forward 8 years later, as they stand here now, ready to embark on a new chapter of their lives together, they recall the story of their first meeting—a testament to the strength of their bond, forged in the crucible of unexpected circumstances. With every beat of their hearts, they affirm that love, in all its imperfect beauty, triumphs over adversity, painting a portrait of a love that will endure for a lifetime.