You have to admit, it was a pretty sly strategy for a kiss—almost like something you’d see in a movie, except it was all taking place off camera.

In 2008, a mutual friend of Nikki and Jake was in the process of making a student film. Jake, with his knack for outlandish humor, was a natural pick for leading man. He wasn’t the shy type, except when it came to Nikki.

Nikki was to play his love interest—a real-life role neither of them were discounting in the back of their minds—and yes, that included an on-screen kiss. Or hug. They were both feeling pretty awkward considering this whole “we’re both attracted, but we haven’t done anything about it” vibe they had going on, so Nikki gave Jake a call one night and ever so subtly suggested they get together to practice some PDA.

They met at Mesa’s Golfland. The “practice” happened after they finished playing a round of mini golf, sparks-a-flyin’. By the end of the night, an on-screen kiss didn’t sound nearly as terrifying, because they wound up getting a good amount of practice in Nikki’s car. So much practice that after Golfland closed, a police officer had to come up and ask the two to leave.

Oh, you kids. A year later, Nikki and Jake, the once awkward on-screen duo, became The Pattens in a ceremony that paid homage to their first date.

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