In the world of relationships, the transition from friendship to romance often involves a unique set of emotions and experiences. Kaye Abad and Paul Jake Castillo’s journey from being close friends to life partners is a testament to the beauty of this transformation.

In an interview with broadcast journalist Karen Davila on her YouTube channel, the celebrity couple shared their relationship journey. They said they formed their friendship while they were working on a project, “They would tease us, na parang hmmm may something kayo, pero wala talaga. Sinasabi nga nila hanggang ngayon, dine-deny n’yo lang. Wala talaga,” Kaye shared.

Kaye opened up about her feelings for Paul. She revealed that in 2014, when he confessed, “I think I’m starting to like you,” she wasn’t initially interested. “Pwede kong sabihin okay kami, compatible kami pero hindi ko na-imagine na hahalikan o iki-kiss 'yung kaibigan ko.”

Paul’s trip to Europe was a turning point for Kaye, making her realize how much she missed him. "Doon ko na-realize bakit ko siya nami-miss. Doon na nag-start," Kaye said.

Paul Jake admitted he couldn't pinpoint the exact moment he began to like Kaye, but he had a precise realization when he envisioned waking up next to her every day. “I asked myself kung kaya ko bang gumising every morning na katabi siya, kaya ko bang tiisin ‘yung mga arguments namin for the rest of my life. That's my ano, that’s the way I decided na parang ano, kaya kong gumising na katabi siya every day.”

Kaye revealed that Paul Jake once said if they were both single by the time they turned 40, they should consider being in a relationship together.

So for Kaye, marrying her best friend offers a treasure trove of fulfilling rewards. She reflected, “I think because, sabi nga nila iba na rin ‘pag mag-asawa kayo, because you live in the same place, 24/7 doon mo makikita talaga yung totoong ugali niya. Ako, I guess with him, since magkaibigan kami for how many years, alam ko talaga ’yong ugali niya. ‘Di ba usually kapag manliligaw iba yung ipapakita mo? Ito, alam ko na ‘yung bad sides niya lahat.”

Paul Jake shares this perspective, adding, “I think the best thing about marrying your best friend would be na you don’t have to pretend. So you’re not scared to show who you really are because you already showed it. She knows what you do, alam mo ‘yung kalokohan niya, alam mo ‘yung ugali niya, the ups and downs sa attitude, sa buhay.”

Kaye's life in Cebu has unfolded as a beautiful tapestry of simplicity and joy. In her own words, she marveled at how deeply she enjoys her new surroundings. "Nagulat ako kasi na-enjoy ko. I love it here in Cebu, very laid-back, simple life, everything is near. I would drive my kids to school, mag-grocery ako mag-isa. ‘Yung buhay na pinangarap ko natupad lahat dito.” Kaye reveled in a life unencumbered by her celebrity status. “Hindi ako artista dito,” she said with a smile. Cebu's serenity allows her to embrace a more grounded existence, where she can fully savor the simple pleasures and the sense of fulfillment that comes with them.

Kaye opened up about her dreams for her sons, Joaquin and Iñigo, emphasizing a life beyond the glitz and glamour of showbiz. She is not in favor of her children entering showbiz, saying that entering the limelight is challenging. She hopes they follow their passions because, in showbiz, it comes from a genuine love for acting, not just fame. It’s not about the money—it’s about finding joy in what you do.

As for the importance of business, Paul chimed in with a practical perspective. Showbiz fame isn’t permanent, so having a solid business foundation is crucial. It ensures that no matter what, they have something stable to rely on.

For Kaye and Paul Jake, their journey from being friends to lovers underscores the extraordinary nature of their bond. It’s a love that has evolved through shared experiences, deep conversations, and mutual support that only come from truly knowing someone inside and out. Their story reminds us that the strongest relationships are often those that begin with a solid foundation of friendship, proving that love, when rooted in genuine understanding and acceptance can withstand any challenge and grow even stronger over time.