When a wrongly sent WhatsApp text sparks love
Remember how blank calls ignited countless love stories in the 90s? Fast forward 20 years and now WhatsApp is playing cupid, though without intention. A South London couple got married on December 7 last year after a whirlwind romance. They first met hours after he accidentally sent a WhatsApp text on a wrong number, which turned out to be hers. Read on for more.
How did it start?
Lina Dahlbeck, 37, received a WhatsApp text saying "Girls Trip" from an unknown number sometime last year. Thinking it a mistake, she responded, "Hi! Girls trip? Who's this please? I'm guessing this was intended for another Lina." Incidentally, Michael Evangelou, 44, had sent the text to a number he thought was his own, as a reminder to watch the film at the theater.
The first date
Curiosity led to back-and-forth texting and four hours later they were out on their first date at a Waterloo restaurant. Incessant conversations followed, they kissed later that night and met again next noon for brunch. "He was so attractive. We were both so puzzled by the whole thing. We were convinced it was fate that had brought us together," Dahlbeck told The Independent.
The big question
Much like their meeting and romance, marriage popped up quite unexpectedly. Two weeks after their first date, they were home, watching TV and discussing dreams when Lina told Michael how she wants to live in Dubai. Michael suggested they do it. She said for it they'd have to be married because Dubai doesn't allow living-in. That's when he proposed. And she said yes.
Parents supportive, friends and family a bit skeptical
They had an intimate December wedding amid loved ones. Their parents were supportive and happy for them. "They did think it was quick but they didn't question it," Lina told The Independent. However, some of their friends and family weren't. "Most thought we were nuts. But they agreed that if it's right you know. And there are no guarantees in this life," she added.
Lina and Michael are moving to Dubai this month
Now seven months later, Lina and Michael are moving to Dubai where Lina plans to open a make-up school. They are soon going to be parents but still gush about how they first met each time they tell it to their friends.
