Flash back to spring 2021 at Carol’s Restaurant. Sophie was serving tables like usual when Ben walked in—just a guy hoping to pick up a serving job and make a little extra money. Sophie handed him his application, noticed he was pretty cute, and might have lingered for a second longer than necessary. She also happened to be around during his interview and may have walked past his table a few extra times… strictly for observational purposes, of course. A few days later, Sophie checked the schedule and saw she’d be training the new guy. Convenient. Ben’s first day happened to be the night before Sophie’s 21st birthday. Her parents came in with balloons and gifts, which gave Ben an idea. At their next shift, he asked Sophie to come out to his car after work—definitely a bold move for Day Two. There, he gave her a bottle of Screwball peanut butter whiskey and asked for her number. (Officially for sending the work schedule. Unofficially… we all know.) Two days later was Sophie’s birthday party. Her roommates pushed her to invite Ben; he accepted without hesitation. And that was pretty much the start of everything. After a few months of working side by side, Ben decided to move to Alexandria to work at his aunt’s floral shop. And just like that, the long-distance chapter began—weekend drives back and forth, long phone calls, and a whole lot of gas station snacks. Over the next three years, they squeezed in countless camping trips, fishing adventures, sporting events, and happy memories. Then came the proposal. Ben planned to pop the question in Walker, Minnesota, with the help of one of Sophie’s best friends. He told Sophie they were heading out for dinner—but instead pulled into the lake landing, where a perfect proposal setup waited on the ice. Despite the below-zero temperatures, it was magical, cozy, breathtaking, unforgettable. And Sophie said yes. (Obviously) Now, after years of love, laughter, long drives, and one extremely important bottle of Screwball, they can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter—together forever.