We're getting Married

Setting the Scene Albert and Eva Darakjy were thrilled when they heard Eric was back in Boise. They knew how much he loved board games, and he wasted no time challenging Albert to a match. I, of course, was just happy to join in on the fun, completely unaware of anything unusual. Looking back, I remember Eric getting strangely distracted, forgetting the rules—something completely out of character for him. At the time, I just thought he was having an off night. Growing Connections Over the next few months, we spent more time together—dinners at Albert and Eva’s filled with laughter, and conversations on the church steps that always ended too soon for fear of ruining a wonderful five-minute chat. I enjoyed his company, appreciated his kindness, but never once suspected that he saw me as anything more than a friend. But deep down in my subconscious I was hopeful. If there were hints, I missed them entirely. A Memorable Night Then came the Military Ball. When Eric asked me to be his date, I was genuinely surprised. It was a night to remember with jokes, friends, pictures and dancing. It was the first time we were able to get to know each other and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

A Sweet Beginning It was a sunny afternoon when Eric suggested we stroll downtown Boise for some ice cream, a treat I couldn't resist. I sensed a hint of nervousness in him, though I couldn't understand why; our friendship had been blossoming beautifully. As we walked, he kept his hands tucked away in his pockets, lost in thought. Suddenly, Eric stopped and turned to me, asking if I could hold something. He pulled his hand from his pocket and extended it towards me. Without hesitation, I instinctively reached out, curious about what he was offering. To my surprise, his palm was empty, but in that moment, he took my hand in his and said, "Don't let go." That simple gesture transformed our friendship into something deeper. It was as if time stood still, and the world around us faded away. The warmth of his hand in mine ignited a spark, marking the beginning of our romantic journey. Little did I know, this was just the first step in a beautiful love story that would unfold in the months to come.

The Winter sun was warm in the beautiful stone town of Assisi, Italy, making the day feel almost like Spring. I had slipped away at lunch to set up the Lego castle by the fountain in front of St. Clare’s, the ring hidden inside the tiny drawbridge. My heart pounded as I waited. When Lupita arrived, her eyes lit up with curiosity. She knelt, studying every detail, her fingers tracing the bricks. Then she peeked through the drawbridge—and froze. Her breath caught, her expression shifting from wonder to shock, her hands covered her mouth to stop from screaming with joy. I took the ring and dropped to one knee. “Lupita, will you marry me?” For a moment, she stood still hands still covering her mouth, there may have been joyous tears. Then, that smile—the one that could light up the world—spread across her face, warm and glowing. “Yes,” she whispered softly, and nothing had ever felt more right.