Jason discreetly followed Mercedes' updates on social media, catching sight of his friend Gellenia, affectionately known as Nikki, sharing a photo of her and Mercedes enjoying a dinner outing. Jason reached out to Nikki on Instagram, expressing his interest and hoping for a connection. In a timely coincidence, Nikki needed assistance with gas due to the freezing -10-degree weather. Jason gladly agreed to help, with a condition that Nikki introduced him to her friend in the distinctive pink dress, who happened to be Mercedes. Both Mercedes and Nikki found humor in Jason's unawareness of the situation, resulting in a friendly chuckle.

After this amusing encounter, they engaged in friendly conversation during the car ride, eventually deciding to exchange phone numbers. The playful game of pursuing each other commenced. Jason made the first move by calling Mercedes, but she often seemed occupied, leaving Jason to speculate that she might be involved with someone else. Unbeknownst to him, Mercedes was actually dedicated to her work and spent long hours at her salon.

Eventually, they managed to synchronize their schedules and spent numerous days conversing over the phone, delving into each other's lives. With a plan to impress her, Jason asked Mercedes out on a date, taking the initiative to organize the outing. Their first date was at Bacchus, a renowned fine dining establishment in downtown Buffalo. Mercedes was genuinely impressed, not simply because of the upscale restaurant choice, but because Jason remembered her desire to experience Bacchus. Jason exhibited true chivalry, displaying gentlemanly gestures like opening doors and pulling out her chair. They connected on a deeper level during this date, setting the stage for their beautiful love story to unfold.