Fourteen years ago, in the lively, humming halls of Skyline College, fate stepped in and gently nudged Nina and Raymar into each other’s lives. Their very first meeting happened during a quiet study session—Nina was deep in her books, laser-focused, when Raymar wandered over to chat with his best friend Jonathan… who just so happened to be sitting next to her. Ever the unintentional wingman, Jonathan introduced the two, and from that moment, everything changed. What started as small talk quickly sparked into something special. They laughed over nerdy jokes, bonded over their shared love for music, movies, and their favorite snacks, and soon found themselves gravitating toward one another in every free moment. One study session turned into many, and those casual hangouts transformed into daily adventures. As the years rolled on, their friendship deepened—layered with laughter, trust, and that rare kind of connection that only grows stronger with time. From college classrooms to road trips, family barbecues, and quiet nights in with their two lovable (and mischievous) dogs, their journey has been filled with memories big and small, all stitched together by love. Now, after more than a decade of shared life, Nina and Raymar are ready to take the next step. Theirs is a story rooted in friendship, blossomed with love, and built to last a lifetime—a story that proves the best kind of love begins with simply showing up, sharing a laugh, and saying yes to the unexpected.

On December 15, 2024, Raymar proposed to Nina at Leo Jay Ryan Park in Foster City, near the very spot where they had shared their first enchanting date. To ensure the complete surprise, Raymar enlisted the clever assistance of her cousin Murielle, who helped wove an elaborate ruse to lure Nina away from the comfort of her home. The enticing tale was a seemingly innocuous birthday lunch for her husband George, which Nina eagerly accepted. As part of the deception, Murielle persuaded Nina to take a leisurely pre-lunch walk through the park, where Raymar awaited, brimming with anticipation. The gazebo at Leo Jay Ryan Park had been transformed into a romantic sanctuary. A stunning archway of giant white roses bloomed overhead, their delicate petals glistening in the soft afternoon sun, while a deep red carpet rolled out to guide Nina straight to Raymar’s hopeful heart. Murielle led Nina on a winding path through the park, their casual conversation flowing like a gentle stream, all the while maintaining the facade of a simple stroll. As they rounded a corner, Nina’s eyes widened at the sight of her brother Danny, his girlfriend Dana, and one of Raymar's closest friends, Joe, gathering in the distance. But it was the sight of Raymar himself standing under the magnificent rose arch that took her breath away. The look of surprise and dawning realization blossomed on Nina's face, just as Raymar had envisioned, filling him with exhilaration. With a heart full of love, Raymar stepped forward, taking her hands gently in his. He spoke with heartfelt sincerity, pouring out his soul as he told her how deeply he loves her, how every moment spent together felt like a beautifully woven dream. His eyes shone with unspoken hopes as he expressed his yearning to spend the rest of his life by her side. Then, with a mixture of nervous excitement and unwavering devotion, he knelt on one knee, a sparkling ring in hand, and proposed. “Nina,” he said, "will you marry me?" Overwhelmed with joy, Nina’s answer came as a breathless, elated “yes!”