May 18, 2023. We’d just moved into our new place the day before. Lane mentioned how he wanted to celebrate the night with dining out. To be honest, I exhausted any energy to even dress up and dine, even if it was Olive Garden. That was the place where we’ve first gotten to know each other. Believe it or not, initially our date wasn’t meant to take place there, but the place remained reliable even during the winter schedule of Clemson – a college town. I adopted every excuse to stay to home and rest from unpacking, as I spent all day settling. I even delayed getting ready when Lane came home from work. Nevertheless, Lane persisted commemorating the day before. After much protest, we arrived at Olive Garden and naturally we had a great time. We reminisced about our journey in love, family and the places we’ve called home throughout the years. With the date ending, Lane insisted we return to our prior residence to gather any left things that we didn’t grab. We arrived at our last place. My initial thought was that there were major lights on in the apartment. I’d never leave those on. I rushed to open the door and immediately I became overwhelmed with emotion all based what I saw. I saw a display of my fiancé’s love in an empty living room. ‘Marry Me’ but I could barely walk to the heart shaped area lined in red rose petals. Hysterical is the only word I’d describe my reaction. I could not tell you if he said my full name, first name or even recited a speech. All I knew was that ‘Yes’ would be the only answer I’d give to my soulmate. I am overjoyed to be able to include our dearest loved ones to witness the establishment of our family. I hope to see you all soon. — Bride, Ahraya Jacobs