Some might say their love story began in 2021, but the truth is, it has roots that stretch back to their senior year of high school. They weren't romantically involved then, but a strong friendship blossomed during that time. It wasn't just a casual connection; they built a solid bond that would become the foundation for something much deeper. Like many high school friendships, though, theirs went dormant after graduation. Shelby embarked on a college adventure in San Antonio, while Joel pursued his career as a paramedic in Dallas and later in Houston. Life took them down separate paths. Then, in 2020, fate intervened. The unexpected twist of COVID brought Shelby back home. A few simple messages rekindled the embers of their friendship, and soon, the possibility of something more flickered to life. It was a slow burn, a steady building of connection that culminated in them finally starting a relationship in October of 2021. From that point, everything flew by. Their connection deepened, their love blossomed, and Joel popped the question in December 2023 with a breathtaking New York City proposal overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. Now, three years after their rekindled friendship, Shelby and Joel are no longer just best friends. They are partners, soulmates ready to face whatever the future holds.