Nina and Rich met in 1987. It was their freshman year at Kent State University and they both lived in the Fine & Professional Arts dorm, Verder Hall (3rd floor). They were floor-mates and somewhat unlikely friends. Rich was good-looking, shy, quiet, and introverted, a fun-loving hair metal lover with the heart of a Renaissance man (or a pirate) rocking the late 80s preppy look. Nina was an all-black-wearing punk and rock music lover who quickly earned the dorm nickname "Princess of Darkness" for her bad attitude and brash demeanor. Cupid struck, but his arrows did not land. Rich secretely pined to be more than Nina's friend (but was too shy and gentlemanly to push it) and Nina threw herself into the life of a theatre and dance major - she had no time for games and subtlety and partners who weren't clear about their intentions and desires. Rich didn't love college, while Nina thrived. He left after that year. Nina stayed on and got her degree. Life happens, as it does. Their journeys took them on very different paths in different cities and states. Staying in touch in the 80s was challenging. They weren't in contact for more than 25 years. When they finally reconnected (first via Facebook, then in real life), Rich confessed the feelings he had held quiet all those years ago by writing Nina a letter - the letter that changed both their lives. Fast forward to now. Rich and Nina have been together eight years. They bought a house together a few years ago, and Rich slowly took to the role of stepdad to Nina's son Dylan. They've traveled together, tackled big home improvement projects together, became marching band parents who love going to the games to cheer Dylan on in the band, and are now looking forward to what the future looks like as they age together. In a way, marrying after many years together is just right for Nina and Rich. It is unhurried and solid. They've weathered many storms and come out the other side stronger and better. They built this relationship brick by brick. Now - wherever they are, together or apart - is home.