As fate would have it, our paths crossed during our junior year at UNC Charlotte, where we were both pursuing degrees in business. I had already taken my seat in a large auditorium classroom when all of a sudden, Michael sits right next to me. We became friends almost instantaneously. Although life took us in different directions after graduation, our friendship endured the test of time. It wasn't until a year later that I mustered the courage to 'make the first move' and reached out to Michael on Snapchat. Little did I know that this simple gesture would set the stage for an incredible journey. From that moment onwards, our story unfolded, filled with countless cherished memories and shared dreams. Today, as we stand on the brink of a new chapter, we can't help but reflect on the wonderful path that brought us here. We're thrilled to embark on this adventure and eagerly anticipate spending the rest of our lives together.

On the memorable date of 7/1/23, Michael took me on a weekend getaway to his parent's lake house. He emphasized the need to "dress nice" for the occasion, hinting at a lovely meal with a view of the water to start our lake adventure. Grateful for the heads-up, I eagerly prepared for what promised to be a special day. Upon arrival, Michael suggested we take a stroll down to the dock. As we stood by the water's edge, he casually mentioned needing to run back up to the house briefly, assuring me it would only take a minute. Little did I suspect that this seemingly ordinary pause would mark the beginning of a life-changing chapter. Lost in the natural beauty of the surroundings, I gazed out at the water, completely unaware that the course of my life was about to pivot. Turning around, I found myself surrounded by the warm embrace of family, eager smiles and cameras ready to capture the perfect moment. In that instant, I knew something extraordinary was about to happen. Michael's eyes met mine, and with a heart full of emotion, he expressed, "I wanted us to be surrounded by people who taught us how to love." In a breathtaking gesture, he dropped to one knee and asked the question that would forever alter our lives. The lake house was already a very special place because it's where Michael first said those three magical words, "I love you." Now it holds an even more profound significance, since it's where he asked me to be his forever.