It all started with an unexpected invitation, though not from her. I walked into the campus cafeteria with a new friend, scanning for a table. My friend spotted his roommate, who offered us a seat. That's when I saw her. She sat at the crowded table, engrossed in conversation, and something about her made me stop. I must have looked lost, because she glanced up with an annoying look and a slight head tilt, probably confused why a stranger sat with them. That lunch, and the conversations that followed, turned out to be the most important meal of our lives. We lived in the same dorm, making connection easy. We started by tackling her English schoolwork. She struggled with black and white film analysis, getting frustrated, yet her determination was infectious. We'd sit for hours, dissecting film, trying to understand her professor's intent. Later, the same professor assigned her to study Viking songs to connect them to Old English texts, bringing us even closer. Our study sessions quickly evolved into life-skills classes when I sheepishly admitted I couldn’t figure out the complex laundry machines. She patiently walked me through the cycles—a truly low-stakes, high-impact moment of trust. From Friendship to Forever: Trust grew into love through a thousand small moments and shared adventures. I became her biggest cheerleader, attending all her step practices and performances. We bonded with our eclectic friends, spending late nights playing pool—she was surprisingly good—and taking reflective walks to the lake, debating big questions and laughing over small ones. We started collecting rocks on those walks, each a tiny, tangible memory. Every summer, a trip to the state fair became a tradition of greasy food and wine slushies. Weekend drives to Syracuse and countless meals at Aztecas (our favorite Mexican spot) and Kyomis (the reliable Asian restaurant) solidified our connection. We started our journey together, but long distance hit when our paths diverged geographically—the true test. We got creative, relying on cramped Amtrak and Greyhound rides and meticulously planned home visits and holidays. We had ups and downs, the frustrating arguments and tearful goodbyes common to any couple. But we beat the odds because we simply couldn't stand not being with each other. Only during this challenging separation did we realize the undeniable truth: we were completely stuck together and meant for one another. Stuck Together and Sealing the Deal: Now, ten years later, our bond has only deepened. I adore her ability to make others feel comfortable—she walks into a room and ensures everyone is having a good time, a natural warmth I admire. She, in turn, loves my ability to keep her sane and grounded; she says I'm her anchor. Of course, it's the little things: her big brown eyes that still make me stumble over my words, and for her, my nerdy excitement when I explain new board game rules or passionately research something. We’ve gone through all events imaginable—graduations, career changes, family celebrations, and losses—and only come out stronger. We are so excited to take the next step and finally sealing the deal. She has definitely not been patient, but has been a loving partner, and I couldn’t be more excited for her to officially become the first Mrs. Chasi in my family. Our story is a testament to resilience, shared laughter, and the simple truth that the greatest loves start with an unexpected invitation to lunch. We can’t wait to share this day with you all!