Gerald and Khyllia's journey began in the summer of 2007 where they first met while running summer track. Khyllia, naturally shy, kept things simple offering a warm smile and few words here and there. Their connection was genuine from the start. Over the years, they remained friends throughout high school and into college, often crossing paths at track meets as Gerald competed at Grambling State University and Khyllia at McNeese State University. Though their conversations were brief, their bond quietly endured. Years later, in 2021, everything changed when Khyllia decided to take a chance and “slide in the DM’s” on Instagram. What started as a simple message quickly turned into effortless, continuous conversation. Just a few days later, they planned their first date at Buffalo Wild Wings. Though, in true Khyllia fashion, she arrived late from a nail appointment, causing them to miss their original reservation at a different restaurant. Still, it was the perfect beginning to something special. After just one month of dating, Gerald left to serve in the Navy and was stationed in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Despite the distance, their relationship only grew stronger. Over the next few years, they traveled together, created lasting memories, and built a foundation rooted in love, trust, and commitment. In May 2024, while Khyllia was away on a work trip in St. Louis, Gerald saw the perfect opportunity to plan a surprise engagement, knowing well that if she were around she would have a thousand questions and figure it out. When she returned home, on June 8, 2024, Gerald asked the most important question and she said YES! On September 6, 2026, Gerald and Khyllia will begin their next chapter as husband and wife. Their wedding weekend will not only celebrate their love story, but also symbolize their transition into becoming one, marking the start of a beautiful journey filled with new beginnings, shared dreams, and a lifetime of love.