We may have first met in middle school, but we didn't really know each other until much later, after college, when we happened upon one another at a rock climbing gym... Claire's story: Middle school was an awkward, pubescent blur that I try not to recall too often, but I do remember some faces here and there—Niall being one of them. I remember him as the quiet, smart type who had something vaguely British about him, but didn't think he'd ever impact my life. However, when Niall approached me at the gym, I was so taken aback by this tall, handsome man saying hi to me that I couldn't immediately recall the quiet, young boy from middle school. He was nice enough not to be offended that I couldn't recognize him immediately and even gave me hints to guess his name. He was just so friendly and cute...suffice it to say, I fell for him instantly. After talking for a bit, I realized that I didn't want to say goodbye as he and his friend started to walk off. And, with a bit of encouragement from my friend, I ran after him and gave him my number—which was very bold for me. We then started catching up on the phone and hanging out at the gym with friends. During this time, I, for the life of me, could not figure out if he was just a really friendly guy or into me. Come to find that he was indeed just a super friendly guy and clueless that I was enamored with him. However, it was fun to hangout with him and his friends, playing games, going out, and watching shows. We became good friends and that seemed like enough. Then, months later, I started to suspect that he may actually like, like me. I played it cool on the outside; meanwhile, on the inside, I was twirling and singing love songs. My suspicions were confirmed when he asked me out on our very first date. It was a perfect first date, even though he was adorably nervous the whole time. Few days later, he asked me to be his girlfriend. From then on, there was no question that he liked, liked me. In fact, he loves me. And I absolutely love him! Niall's story: I'd been frequently going to a rock climbing gym with my friends, until one day I noticed Claire Galbraith from middle school. I went over to say hello and chuckled at the fact that she didn't remember me. It was cute watching her try to recall my name but she got there eventually. I was then surprised when she asked for my number - we hadn't known each other well in middle school - but was glad she did. We started as friends, inviting one another to hangouts and gatherings that our different friend groups were having, and I quickly grew to love her. I asked her out on our first date where we got tacos, went to an art store, then to a coffee shop, and then to an outdoor movie (The Sandlot) where we had our first kiss. From then on we've had a wonderful time living together, moving across the country, and taking care of our cats. After five years of dating, I took Claire on an anniversary trip to Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands, where I, as nervous as I was on our first date, got down on one knee, and she, more shocked than the day we met, said yes! I love Claire and the lives we've built together so much.