We're saying "I DO!"

Autumn and I met 13 years ago at a mutual friend's party. We were both on different paths at that time but remained in touch because we enjoyed each others company. We felt safe together and enjoyed staying up late and talking and watching TV. We kept things casual, dated other people through the years and sent the occasional "How are you doing?" texts. We actually went a whole year without any contact because I pissed her off. I told her "I needed space" after she asked why I didn't call her back. I tried apologizing over and over again. With no luck. No response back. I gave up. Out of the blue, I got a text from an 818 number "Hi". It was her, "Autumn?". "Yes". I was shocked, I honestly thought I was never going to see her again. Later that week we met up, we had dinner at Sizzler. She looked amazing, so beautiful (as always). We had a lot of catching up to do. We hung out here and there for the next couple of months. She then asked me why I haven't had a girlfriend or serious relationship all the years she had known me? I told her "I don't like to have to answer to anybody" she replied "Maybe you have been with the wrong girls? Maybe we can give it a shot? I like that you can take care of an exotic animal. It shows that you take responsibility for something other than yourself and you keep your room tidy." We began talking and texting every night. We learned a lot about each other in the next couple of months.