Let's take a stroll back to August 2019 - a time of fresh notebooks, overpriced textbooks, and two grad students who had no idea they were about to embark on the world’s flirtiest game of academic cat-and-mouse. It all started at orientation. Nick strutted in, rocking his signature “grandpa cardigan” like he was about to settle in with a cup of tea and a good mystery novel. Meanwhile, Jaclyn arrived in a bold, striped jumpsuit, effortlessly stealing the show (can you tell who wrote this?). They were grouped together for a "meet and greet" breakout group plus one other person named Andrew. It was a great time for everyone except for Andrew. After orientation, the whole group headed to a nearby bar for cocktails. Most people walked. Jaclyn, however, had a plan (or so she thought). “I’ll drive,” she casually mentioned. Nick—ever the gentleman, or perhaps just looking for an excuse to sit next to her—hopped in the passenger seat. Then came the ultimate test of small-town girl: parallel parking. The only available spot required skills that Jaclyn, unfortunately, did not possess. As she fumbled around and then finally freaked out, Nick, thinking this was a brilliant, calculated flirtation tactic (it was not), finally stepped in. Right there, in the middle of the street, they did an awkward, highly illegal seat swap. Nick parked the car like a pro, while Jaclyn sat there, equal parts impressed and humiliated. Once inside the bar, Nick wasted no time “casually” draping his arm around the back of Jaclyn’s chair. (He still insists this was not a move, but the jury remains out.) He then proceeded to pay for Jaclyn’s drinks—chivalry is not dead, people! From there, the flirtation continued. But alas, Jaclyn played way too hard to get. Nick, growing tired of the chase (and probably questioning his life choices), backed off, and they settled into a solid friendship for the first half of grad school. But the second half? Oh, the second half was different. And much, much better. But you can fill in the blanks from there :) There’s something surreal about falling for the person who pushes you to be better, cheers you on, shows up everyday, and reminds you to slow down and enjoy the little things (like calling your grandma, parallel parking, and celebrating life as it happens). So here we are—two dogs, two apartments, and so much love later. And we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate with every single one of you! Now, who’s ready to toast to love, laughter, and never having to parallel park alone again? 🥂