The story of Alyssen and Brendan began in a second-grade classroom about 18 years ago. Back then, they were just two kids who knew of each other, sharing mutual friends as they made their way through grade school and middle school. But their real love story started to take shape in high school. As freshmen, Brendan and Alyssen were part of different friend groups. Yet, those groups often ended up mingling during lunch. Brendan, usually found sketching in his notebook, caught Alyssen's eye. One day, she decided to sit next to him and strike up a conversation. That simple act sparked a connection—they started texting, hanging out during lunch, and meeting up at sporting events. As the year went on, both felt the stirrings of a crush, but it wasn’t quite the right time for them yet. Sophomore year rolled around, and while neither knew how the other felt, the connection remained. They found themselves walking and talking during lunch breaks, sharing laughter at football games, and growing closer with every passing day. By the end of October, Brendan made a bold move. He wrote Alyssen a note shaped like a text bubble asking her to be his girlfriend. It was official—Brendan and Alyssen were a couple. The next three years were a whirlwind of young love. They met each other’s families, supported one another through high school sports (with Brendan even coaching Alyssen in track), shared classes, and celebrated countless memorable moments together. As graduation approached, fate stepped in with an unexpected twist—they both chose to attend Rutgers University. Together, they navigated the next four years, building new communities, exploring different interests, and, through it all, growing even closer. But after spending seven years side by side, life led Brendan and Alyssen down different paths in pursuit of their careers. For the next three years, they lived apart, yet their love never wavered. They stayed connected through Facetime calls, holiday weekends together, and visiting each other as often as possible. Celebrating their anniversary had always been special to them. For their 10th anniversary, they planned a small getaway weekend. What Alyssen didn’t know was that Brendan had an incredible surprise up his sleeve. On that special day, he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Her answer, of course, was a resounding "yes!" Now, after more than 11 years together, Alyssen and Brendan stand on the brink of a new chapter, ready to tie the knot just in time to celebrate their 12th anniversary.