Derek & Matthew met at a most inconvenient time in their lives - both in a dynamic state with unsure futures ahead. From the moment they met, they agreed that it would never turn into something serious - despite subtle signs to the contrary. Matthew, in his 3rd year of medical school and powering through difficult rotations, he had another 1.5 years where he was bound to living in NJ. Derek, finishing his second degree that December, had already accepted a new job & leased a new apartment in his home city of St. Louis. Needless to say, they didn't have plans- and had even less time- to make a relationship last. It was apparent, however, that these two very different individuals with different goals for life- and love- shared a deep connection. December came and went - Derek gone to St. Louis while Matthew persevered through his 3rd year. With time off, Matthew decided to visit Derek. A few weeks later, Derek returned the visit in kind. These short trips became more frequent - leading to week-long vacation time spent together. They had promised that it wouldn't get serious. Yet, that feeling of "the one" continued to resonate with each of them. Over the next year, Matthew matched into residency in OB/GYN in NY while Derek continued with his life in St. Louis. After their engagement in December 2017, Derek began looking for jobs in NYC, so they could be together. After a few months of interviewing, Derek found a position! Everything seemed to be all set - little did they know fate would rest in their corner for the near impossible to happen. The week before Derek was accepting his new position in NY, a residency position opened in St. Louis. Knowing the competitive nature of the field and of the program, optimism was tough to garner. Long story short - Matthew applied and got the position! They started their journey together in St. Louis June 2018. Repeatedly they said, "this can't happen," but it did. They are glad to say they were wrong!