a new journey awaits...

In April of 2020, Darrius found Carrington on Instagram, and decided to swipe up on her story and say, "Hello." He'd known her all of his life because of their father's friendship, but lost touch in their early teens. Since this point, they hadn't seen each other in almost a decade. Upon Darrius initiating conversation, he found that Carrington was attending Florida State University, while he was attending Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in the same city. Carrington, surprised by his message, gladly responded. As they caught up via text, Darrius asked Carrington to go out on a date just to "catch up." Happily, she agreed and then later declined as she did not quite understand the informality of the date, and was scared to have a potential "boyfriend." After talking, and persistently declining Darrius' requests, she found it best that they only remain friends... What Carrington quickly came to realize is that the, "persistent midget" as she calls him, doesn't give up easily. From April to August, Darrius and Carrington became best friends, and upon her moving back to Tallahassee for school from summer break, she allowed him to take her on a date. Their first date was at FunStation in Tallahassee, followed by dinner at a hibachi steakhouse. They had so much fun! On their next date, Darrius surprised Carrington at The Edison after dinner with a slice of key lime cheesecake with strawberry puree around the plate spelling, "Will you be my girlfriend?" Carrington replied, "Yes!" And as of September 30, 2020 they'd officially become boyfriend and girlfriend. While dating, marriage was a constant goal that was always discussed. They dated with the goal to marry, being forthcoming about their intent before agreeing to date at all. In December of 2021 Darrius met with Carrington's father to ask for his blessing to marry his only daughter. Carrington's father, Pastor Cedric Johnson, gave his blessing along with wisdom to carry their marriage for a lifetime to come. On March 5th, Darrius surprised Carrington at the River Walk with all of their combined family and friends to ask for her hand in marriage. Her response was, "Yes!" The significance of the River Walk is that it has been their place of peace, prayer, and now proposal! They are enjoying the road to #MercersinMatrimony and are grateful for the support of their family and friends! Their journey further continues soon as husband and wife...