Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Sam told Sophia that his friends would be in town and insisted she take the day off work, which was a big ask for her (since she never typically takes time off). Knowing how important it was, he reached out to her manager, and together they rearranged Sophia’s schedule, giving her the green light to take a day off! Sam then created a group chat with the “friends coming into town,” where the four of them made plans, discussed reservations, and set the day’s itinerary. The first stop was the Garfield Park Conservatory, followed by lunch, a Blackhawks game, and dinner. When Sam and Sophia arrived at the conservatory, he told her that his friends were running late and suggested they go ahead and start exploring. (Spoiler: His friends weren’t coming at all!) As they wandered through the gardens, they came across a beautiful spot, and Sophia noticed someone taking photos. Quickly, she tried to move out of the way, but Sam insisted she stay. That’s when she realized what was happening. The next moments were a blur, but Sam had a heartfelt speech ready, a photographer capturing every moment, and the biggest smile on his face. Sophia, in shock, quickly canceled the lunch reservation she had made, but Sam had other plans. After their stunning photos, they called their families to share the exciting news. As Sophia was about to call her best friend, they arrived at the restaurant where Sam had secretly reserved a table weeks in advance. There, she was met with the surprise of all her closest friends, including Isabella, her best friend who flew in from New York! They celebrated together over pastries and breakfast foods, surrounded by love and laughter. Sophia’s cousin, Sarah, and her husband, Jake, took them to the Blackhawks game, where they celebrated the engagement in style. It was the best double date they had ever been on. The day ended with just the two of them at Alla Vita, where they toasted with champagne, enjoyed pasta, and shared gelato. It truly was a perfect day. Sophia feels incredibly blessed, her already high standards for love and life are constantly exceeded by Sam.