A Love Story in Physio Sessions

The Tale Of Us

César and Stefania arrived in Madrid in 2019—he from Mexico, to pursue an MBA; she from Italy, to begin her physiotherapy internship. Their friends Angela (Stefania’s high school friend) and Leo (César’s lifelong friend) unknowingly became the link that would unite them when they introduced them at Leo’s birthday party.

César was instantly smitten, but Stefania barely spoke Spanish, and he—newly arrived in the city—was still adjusting to all the change and excitement. So he chose not to act right away, trusting that destiny would do its part.

Months passed without their paths crossing again, until fate gave César a little push—or rather, a kick. During a soccer tournament at his school, convinced he was a star striker, César ended up with a serious ankle injury and straight to the hospital. Following Leo’s advice, he began rehabilitation the next day—on crutches—at the clinic where Stefania happened to work.

For César, every physio session felt like a date. Between exercises and laughter, he tried to win her over with his best (and probably worst) Mexican-accented Spanish. The connection was instant, but Stefania was still in a long-distance relationship. Ever the gentleman, César stayed patient and hopeful, thinking, “It’s only a matter of time… and a few more sessions.”

Once fully recovered—and with the perfect excuse in mind—César invited her to dinner as a thank-you gesture. Stefania, always professional, replied, “That’s not necessary! I was just doing my job.” But with a smile, she added, “Though I wouldn’t say no to an ice cream.” That was the first time they saw each other outside the clinic. It was a lovely afternoon—but then summer arrived, and once again, life pulled them in different directions.

After months of occasional messages and brief coincidences, César couldn’t get her out of his mind. Meanwhile, Stefania was reaching the end of her long-distance relationship. Then came Halloween.

At first, César had no intention of going out. But when Stefania asked if he’d be at the party, his plans changed immediately. That night became a turning point. From then on, they started seeing each other more often. And once César knew Stefania was single, he understood this time he wouldn’t leave it to fate. This time, he would act.

The rest, as they say, is history...