Erin missed her friends and family, but didn't think much of Stephen. Until he called one evening after track practice. She was in the library with a few of her teammates, working on whatever assignment, when he called to "see what was going on". They spent two hours on the phone that first time, and then it became routine. At least twice a month he'd call and they'd catch up. After three grueling years at school, Erin finally returned home to not only her parent's home, but her beloved career at Safeway. Stephen and Erin began hanging out regularly, so much so that Erin's mom commented "boy and girl FRIENDS don't hang out THAT much".

This non-committal, laid-back relationship continued for over two years. Each one navigated different love interests, which were discussed at length with each other. Until.... Maggie's bachelorette party in Nashville. There was another call. Erin, one too many drinks in and too much conversation with family and friends, decided to call Stephen... and unfortunately left a voicemail. It was short and sweet."Hey Stephen I think I like you, ok, bye," with a follow-up text, "Just delete my voicemail, lol". Well, obviously Stephen listened to the message. When Erin returned from the crazy weekend, we decided that we were going to "hang-out" at Monocacy Battlefield.

For Erin, this was the most embarrassing and uncomfortable position she'd ever been in. But after some Chic-fil-a and small talk, they agreed to go on a date. Stephen showed up at the FRONT DOOR of the household on September 11th, 2019, with lilies. After a date at Cacique, Erin returned home to her mother, who said, "Friends don't buy friends flowers." And we've been together ever since!