I first met Marisa in 2016 at Southern New Hampshire University. I was a sophomore, and she had just started her very first semester. At that time, I had no idea we were both from Vermont—all I knew was that she was the prettiest girl on campus. From the moment I saw her, I wanted her attention more than anything. But Marisa was focused on adjusting to college life and enjoying her independence for the first time, so friendship was all she wanted. Eventually, life pulled us in different directions. Marisa left school, and we lost touch for a while. I stayed to finish my degree and, after graduation, moved to New Hampshire while she remained in Vermont. One day, I decided to reach out, hoping to reconnect. Even though I knew exactly how I felt about her, she wasn’t ready for more, so our bond remained just a friendship. In 2020, I made the decision to move back to Vermont to be closer to home. Around that time, I reached out to let her know I was back. Not long after, out of the blue, Marisa called me to ask if I was going to a party she’d be at. The second I knew she would be there, I couldn’t say no. I even brought my best friend along for support because I was so excited to see her again. That night changed everything. The moment we saw each other, there was an undeniable spark. The way she laughed, the way we connected—I knew right then I finally had her. By December of 2020, after a few dates and hangouts, I asked Marisa to be my girlfriend. What I didn’t realize at the time was that one question would lead to the rest of my life with her. Looking back, I believe God’s timing was perfect. Marisa needed to grow on her own before she was ready for someone like me, and when the time was right, He brought us back together. Our story has had its twists and turns, but every step led us here—to a love I know was always meant to be.