They met freshman year at Ohio State, though “met” might be a generous word. The truth is, they didn’t really like each other at first. They both secretly thought the other person was a little annoying, and yet… they kept finding ourselves in the same circles, orbiting around each other as the years went on. Somewhere in those early moments, there was a spark. Emily noticed how caring Zarius is, and Zarius liked Emily's spirited personality. Especially on those nights when Emily had one (or three) drinks too many, Zarius was always the one making sure Emily got home safely. Even when they weren't close, he showed up. They stayed friends, almost by accident, throughout all four years. And then senior year changed everything. They started spending more time together. He gave her a four-day lifting regimen… and she ended up giving him her heart. Somewhere between late-night Stardew Valley sessions, McDonald’s runs, and the quiet, easy feeling of being around each other, they found something they hadn’t been looking for but suddenly couldn’t imagine living without. What started as “kind of annoying” turned into friendship, and friendship turned into love. And the rest, truly, is history. 🌙🍟💛