During the shutdown of 2020, Bartley and Tessa crossed paths at their local dog park. Bartley's puppy ran straight into Tessa's lap; the rest was history. After months of running into each other this way, they finally agreed to grab brunch (not knowing that this would be their first date). From that day they've been inseparable, spending much of their quarantined time with one another and learning to grow together.

Bartley planned for months, making sure to choose the perfect ring, obtain Tessa's parent's blessing, and create the ruse. Bartley told Tessa they were headed to the beach one last time before the school year began. While they were there, he had planned a "nice dinner" so she needed to get dressed up. They coordinated their outfits, Tessa rushed to make it out on time, Bartley dawdled. He had to stall to make sure his cousin Kenny was in position, ready to photograph the moment. They arrived to the restaurant only to find out it was closed, Bartley insisted they take a walk on the beach before finding another place to get dinner. They walked down to the ocean, talking about how far they've come and all the things they planned for the future. This was the moment. Bartley pulled Tessa in for one last embrace before reaching for his pocket and getting down on one knee to pop the question. Tessa, in complete shock, said yes!