Amanda and Brandon started off as online friends hanging out together on a gaming site as far back as 2005. Simply put, they met online. They bonded over their love of all things nerdy: RPG games, fantasy novels, and anime. When Brandon joined the Army, he asked if they could keep in touch. Despite the distance, the two friends talked often; supporting one another through the perils of young-adulthood, romantic relationships, schooling, training, world travel and family. While feelings stirred over the years the two remained firm friends. In 2013, the two found themselves free from other romantic ties, after toying with the idea of dating each other Amanda suggested that they get together for a visit during spring break. On March 16th, 2013 Amanda and Brandon became a couple.

On a frigid and rainy Tuesday in January Brandon pushed Amanda out the door, saying that there was one stop in the city he wanted to make, before heading off to their dinner reservation. After a short trip through the city, darkness descended and she was confused where they were going. Parking at the bottom of Federal Hill, he quietly convinced her to embark into the cold and wet air, and scale the hill. Arriving at the top, they were rewarded with an empty park and a beautiful view of the Chesapeake Bay. Finding a bench that was less wet than the rest, he wiped it off, and they sat down to rest. Looking out off the hill and over the water, he slowly turned the small box in his jacket pocket, contemplating what he was about to do. He was never good at small talk, and she knew it. Yet, nervous as he was, he asked her how she was enjoying her day, thus far. As the talking continue, they discussed the day, then life, and plans for the future. Somehow, the topic turned towards opportunities missed, and the mood became dour. Despite the mood, the situation was perfect. Giving the box a final idle spin, he squeezed her hand with his, saying he hoped he would make everything better. Sliding off the bench, he dropped down to one knee, ignoring the wet cement, cold air, and a random couple passing by. Looking into her eyes, he took a deep breath and smiled at her. Despite having recited the words many times before, his practiced speech failed him. It was for the best, though, as he spoke from the heart. Producing the small box from his pocket, he held it before her, closed, and began. He asked her, the beautiful woman that was his best friend for over a decade, his rock through the insanity, his light through the darkness, the love of his life, if she would join him on the next stage of this adventure, and be his wife. She said YES!