Season 7 of 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days has brought together a unique couple—Niles Valentine and Matilda Nti. Although their relationship initially seemed like a fairytale, there are signs that Niles might be making a grave mistake that could jeopardize their future together.
Niles’ Struggles with Social Cues and Connections
Niles, who has autism, has faced challenges in building meaningful relationships, as he has difficulty picking up on social cues. Despite this, he quickly proposed to Matilda over the phone, believing she was everything he had been looking for. Though their love seems genuine, Niles’ eagerness to please Matilda might be setting them up for failure.
The Pressure of People-Pleasing
One of the most concerning aspects of their relationship is Niles’ tendency to be a people-pleaser. He expressed hesitation about getting married right away, wanting to wait until he had saved enough for a grand wedding and the bride price. Niles also struggles with overstimulation in crowded places, making it hard for him to fully participate in activities Matilda enjoys.
However, instead of setting clear boundaries, Niles pushes himself out of his comfort zone to make Matilda happy. While he believes that stepping outside of his normal routine is necessary for his partner’s happiness, it could lead to unrealistic expectations in the long run.
Matilda’s Genuine Affection or Hidden Motives?
Despite these red flags, Matilda appears to be genuinely interested in Niles. She has respected his boundaries and seems excited about their future together. But there’s still some suspicion surrounding their whirlwind romance. Matilda’s eagerness to rush the wedding and her sudden appearance in Niles’ life through direct messages raises eyebrows. Is she truly in love, or is there something more beneath the surface?
Lessons from Another ‘90 Day Fiancé’ Couple: Adnan and Tigerlily
Niles and Matilda’s situation brings to mind the storyline of another Before the 90 Days couple, Adnan Abdelfattah and Tigerlily Taylor. Their relationship, while physically compatible, is marred by Tigerlily’s constant flaunting of her wealth and lavish gifts. Tigerlily bought Adnan a $26,500 luxury watch early in their relationship, sparking concerns that she might be using material gifts to win his love. Despite the couple’s apparent connection, Tigerlily’s privileged lifestyle and superficial actions could be the downfall of their relationship.
Niles may not have Tigerlily’s extravagant tendencies, but his desire to please Matilda at any cost could similarly create unrealistic expectations. Relationships need balance and open communication, especially when partners come from different cultural and personal backgrounds.
The Verdict: Niles Needs to Speak Up
Ultimately, Niles and Matilda’s relationship still has potential, but Niles needs to address his concerns with Matilda directly. People-pleasing can only take a relationship so far, and without clear communication, their future could be at risk. Just like Tigerlily’s lavish displays may harm her relationship with Adnan, Niles’ reluctance to assert his needs may cause long-term harm to his bond with Matilda.
Fans of 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days can catch all the drama as the series airs on TLC, or stream it on Max in the U.S.
