Back in 2020, a close-knit group of four friends spent nearly every day together. Thanks to COVID, there was little to do beyond enjoying quality time with friends and family during the shutdown. Through those moments, Bethany and Austin grew from being close friends into something more. As Bethany entered her senior year and Austin his junior year, their bond and feelings only grew stronger. Midway through the school year, Austin made the decision to graduate a year early so he could graduate alongside Bethany. What followed was years of growth, dedication, and love—Bethany through college, two out-of-state internships, and moving out of state for her first job to start her career; and Austin dedicating the past 4 years on being active duty in the Marine Corps, going from state to state, consistently training, and going out of the country to be deployed. After four long years of long distance, they are finally closing the distance for good this September. As they approach five years together, their bond has never been stronger. They are so excited to celebrate five years of love and begin a lifetime filled with happiness, forever, and happily ever after.