In 2012, Rory and Kristen first crossed paths at Columbus State University while playing basketball. Introduced by Kristen’s roommate, Jas, the three quickly became an inseparable trio—where one went, the others weren’t far behind. It was during these moments that the bond between Rory and Kristen began to grow. As time passed, Rory and Kristen grew closer, though they insisted they were “just friends” whenever anyone asked. Friends and family, however, saw what Rory and Kristen couldn’t yet see themselves—a love story quietly taking shape. One afternoon, outside the campus café, a spirited debate broke out among friends: “Should the man or the woman make the first move if they’re interested?” The group was divided, with women arguing it was the man’s responsibility and men suggesting it could go either way. Rory turned to Kristen and asked for her thoughts. With a smile, she confidently replied, “It’s the man’s responsibility.” Not long after, as they walked away from the debate, Jas interrupted Rory and Kristen with a bold declaration: “Y’all like each other.” Stunned, they looked at each other, unsure of what to say. After Jas left, Rory found the courage to ask Kristen, “Is it true? Do you like me?” With a shy smile, Kristen said, “Yes,” and quickly walked away before Rory could even respond. That moment sparked a conversation later that day—and the rest was history. On December 21, 2012, they made it official. Over the next 12 years, Rory and Kristen’s relationship grew stronger as they navigated life’s ups and downs, from long-distance love across 300 miles to traveling the world and creating cherished memories together. True to their non-traditional and adventurous spirit, Rory and Kristen have always chosen to walk their own path. On December 21, 2024, they stood before God and a judge to vow a lifelong commitment, “To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.” As Mark 10:8 beautifully reminds us, “And the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh.”