Solmari and Elias grew up in the same neighborhood, but their paths truly crossed at the local pizzeria owned by Elias’ family. He was the pizza guy behind the counter, and she was the girl who kept finding excuses to stop by for a slice — and a glance.

For her graduation, Solmari walked in wearing her cap and gown to catch his attention. It worked — Elias noticed and handed her a free Italian ice.

A few days later, a text popped up: “Hey, it’s Ali.” From that simple message, a love story began — one that started with pizza and a little bit of courage.