

Our love story began in the most unexpected—but perfectly fitting—place: Chowking. Paula had just moved to the U.S. from the Philippines, navigating a brand new country and looking for a fresh start. She applied to work at the restaurant, not knowing that fate had something bigger in store. It was there that she met Paul. From the moment they met, Paula couldn’t help but laugh at how their names—Paul and Paula—seemed like a destined pair. “Parang meant to be,” she joked. But jokes have a funny way of becoming real life. During one of their breaks, Paula casually asked Paul for his Twitter handle so they could be friends. That one small interaction sparked something much bigger: late-night conversations, inside jokes, and a growing connection that neither of them had expected. They’d talk about everything—from music to dreams to the silliest memes—and slowly, a friendship blossomed into something deeper. At first, they both thought they were just going to be friends. Comfortable. Easy. But feelings have a way of growing when two people simply click. After a year of friendship, Paul decided it was time to be honest with his heart—and began to court Paula, Filipino style. On May 20, 2020, beneath the wide skies of Mountains Edge Park, Paul asked the big question. Nervous but certain, he asked Paula to be his—and she said yes. Life moved forward, and so did their journey. After three beautiful years together, Paula made a life-changing decision: to join the U.S. Army. It was a difficult transition—being apart for months—but it only proved how strong their bond truly was. While Paula was away in training, Paul wrote her heartfelt letters every single day. Handwritten words, filled with encouragement, love, and longing, bridged the distance and brought them even closer. When Paula finally graduated and returned to Las Vegas, the reunion was everything they had hoped for. To celebrate, they took a trip to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, seeking peace and time near the water. After Paul finished setting up their tent, Paula relaxed inside, unaware that another life-changing moment was about to happen. That’s when Paul popped the second big question—this time, with a ring—and Paula said yes again. Today, they share not just a home but a life full of laughter, partnership, and two adorable fur babies, Milo and Mochi, who complete their little family. Through long-distance letters, army boot camps, fast food shifts, and lakeside proposals, their love has proven to be steady, silly, and strong. From Chowking to “I do”, theirs is a story built on friendship, faith, and the kind of love that keeps blooming—just like spring.