They say timing is everything—and we believe it. Though we always knew of each other, having gone to high school just five miles apart and both attending college in Jacksonville, IL, we never actually met despite all the close calls. Fast forward to 2023. After finishing grad school in Wisconsin, Michael accepted a job that brought him back to Jacksonville — and unknowingly, closer to Lindsey. He moved into an apartment just down the street from her house. Michael knew she was living there and single, but hadn’t made a move. After hearing through the grapevine that Michael was interested, Lindsey couldn’t help but notice him casually driving by her house, walking her neighborhood path and once literally crossing paths on a morning walk. Luckily for Michael, Lindsey decided to take the leap and reach out after some encouragement from a friend. We made plans to meet at a local bar in Jacksonville. We instantly clicked — flirting, laughing, and having one of those conversations that just flows. There was an ease between us. Michael left that night thinking something amazing had started. But the next morning, Lindsey texted Michael and said she saw him more as a friend. Ouch. A few weeks passed. Then, fate stepped in (again). We ran into each other at a mutual friend’s wedding. We spent most of the night avoiding each other — until the very end. When we finally talked, it felt like we'd known each other forever. From that moment on, we talked every day and were inseparable. Michael ditched the apartment and moved in not long after. And one year later, he asked her to marry him. It’s funny how life works. Now we laugh about the twists and turns that brought us together — all the almosts that finally led to our forever. And here we are, writing the next chapter of our story together—with the best still yet to come.