Samuel’s Version It all began in December 2019, during the holiday season. I had no idea it would also mark the start of the most meaningful relationship of my life. That’s when I met Grace in Atlanta, Georgia, through what felt like divine intervention. Grace was in town for the Passion Conference, a Christian event she had been eagerly anticipating, while I was visiting family for Christmas. Our first meeting was brief just small talk but her warmth and quiet confidence stayed with me long after. After the holidays, I couldn’t stop thinking about her. Weeks later, I decided to take a chance and reached out to her on Instagram. It felt bold, but she was worth it. Grace, with her honesty, made it clear: “Any guy who approaches me, I block. If that’s your intention, let me know so I can block you too.” Her candor surprised me, but it made me respect her even more. I reassured her I only wanted friendship, and from there, our connection began to grow. Over the months, we spoke often. Grace had her guard up, but I stayed patient and intentional, showing her she mattered. Slowly, her walls came down, and our bond deepened. She wasn’t just special she became my best friend. By 2023, after years of prayer, I knew Grace was the one. She had already confessed her feelings in 2022, but when I fully realized my love for her, it brought immense joy knowing she felt the same. In September 2023, we began dating, and on July 13, 2024, I proposed. Her “yes” was everything I’d hoped for. Grace is my greatest blessing my best friend, my partner, and the love of my life. I can’t wait to start this next chapter with her by my side. She’s my answered prayer and my forever home. Grace’s Version Our love story began in December 2019, though I didn’t realize its significance then. I was awarded a scholarship to attend Passion 2020, a Christian conference I’d long desired. As a broke student, I couldn’t afford it, so the scholarship felt like a blessing from God. Since the conference was in Atlanta, I stayed with my uncle. Upon arriving, I met my uncle, Dami (his Sister), and Samuel. I already knew Dami, so she was comforting, but Samuel was new. Being naturally reserved, I took my time warming up, though we bonded over a shared love for Korean dramas. After the conference, I returned to North Carolina for my final nursing school semester, not thinking much about Samuel. Then, I got a message from him on Instagram. I like to joke he made the first move, though he claims I did. Either way, that small exchange marked an unexpected beginning. Whenever guys approach me, I’m upfront about my disinterest. I jokingly called myself a “blocking machine” and warned Samuel I wouldn’t hesitate to block him. But he respected my boundaries and took time to know me. Over years, Samuel became my closest friend, kind, dependable, and respectful. He created a space where I felt valued and safe to open up. Our friendship deepened, and I saw qualities I admired. In July 2022, after prayer and encouragement, I took a leap of faith, confessing my feelings. To my relief, Samuel felt the same. We began dating in September 2023. Saying yes to being his girlfriend was an easy decision. He wasn’t just a boyfriend but my confidant and best friend. When he proposed in July 2024, my answer was an immediate yes. Looking back, I’m amazed at how God built our relationship on friendship, now the cornerstone of our love. Each day, I thank God for Samuel and the way his love reflects God’s heart. I can’t wait to start life with him as my husband and partner.