She said yes!

This love story starts two years before the couple began their journey together. In 2015, Johanna and Gene both worked at the Pentagon. Separated by only a scant 100 yards, Gene saw Johanna at the train station and was instantly struck by her beauty and poise. Unfortunately, it was only after Johanna was beyond his reach did he finally gather the courage to speak. Time and circumstance are cruel, because again, and months later, Gene was tempted by romantic chance, and again was unable to make Johanna's acquaintance. To him, all hope of meeting his soul mate was lost. Fate and the Universe conspired. On April 8th, 2017, During a wine tasting at the Longview Gallery, Gene and Johanna crossed paths. Gene saw Johanna first, but Johanna made the first move. A University of Illinois baseball cap was the impetus for Johanna's bold entry into Gene's life. She trumpeted "I-L-L". Gene was overwhelmed. "I am not ill or sick", he retorted. His response to this call was supposed to be, “I-N-I”. Soon, all confusion removed, and both realized that they shared a unique bond, Illinois, the Pentagon, and a love for great wine. Johanna and Gene shared the day, exchanged numbers and parted ways. Days after, Gene began texting his motives. Johanna replied. A proper date was scheduled for that next Saturday, and the two enjoyed the best of DC on a beautiful afternoon. In the end, Johanna and Gene knew that Fate was realized. From then on, they spent any and every free moment together. Sitting on the couch and watching iZombie was their guiltiest pleasure. It was the fall of 2017, and Johanna surprised Gene with a return trip to Longview Gallery for a new wine-inspired adventure. In return, Gene surprised Johanna with words that would carry them to this day and forever ever. "I Love You", he proclaimed. Johanna shared the feeling. Today, Johanna and Gene remain inseparable. Their Love grows clearer to them, and every day brings them closer together.