Our paths crossed by accident in the Fall semester at Northern Kentucky University in 2018. Our journey began within the walls of a bustling math and chemistry classroom. We were diligently pursuing our academic goals, with our minds set on conquering the complexities of numbers and chemical reactions. As the semester unfolded, we found ourselves gravitating towards each other, with our shared passion for knowledge creating an unspoken bond. Late-night study sessions turned into lively discussions, and casual exchanges transformed into heartfelt conversations. The equations on the whiteboard might have confounded us, but the chemistry between us was undeniable. In the midst of formulas and lab experiments, our friendship blossomed, forever intertwining our lives in a beautiful and unexpected way.

In February of 2019, our connection blossomed into something deeper as we embarked on a romantic journey together. We soon discovered a shared love for sports, particularly football and baseball. From cheering on the Reds, Vikings, & Buccaneers to attending live games, we reveled in the excitement and camaraderie of sporting events. Outside of the stadiums, we explored our culinary passions, indulging in delicious food and drink from our favorite restaurants. Our adventurous spirit extended to leisure activities like mini golf, where we engaged in friendly competition and laughter-filled rounds. Another shared interest was the world of theater, as we delighted in attending captivating performances and being transported to different worlds through the magic of the stage. Over the course of our relationship, our bond grew stronger, fueled by our continued love and support for one another.

After enduring a challenging spring semester and a demanding summer clinical experience, we found ourselves at Smale Park in downtown Cincinnati, standing at a crucial turning point in our relationship. The park, adorned with lush greenery and breathtaking views of the cityscape and Ohio River, set the stage for a momentous occasion. As the sun painted the sky with vibrant hues, Sawyer, captivated by Sarah's radiant beauty, knew that this was the perfect moment to take their relationship to the next level. Sarah, wearing a casual ensemble of a tank top, jean shorts, and gym shoes, embodied her true self in all her effortless charm. It was a testament to our connection, as Sawyer loved Sarah not for her attire but for her genuine soul. With trembling hands and a heart full of love, Sawyer got down on one knee, expressing his unwavering commitment and desire to spend the rest of their lives together. Sarah, overwhelmed with joy and admiration, eagerly accepted, sealing our engagement with a heartfelt embrace. In that picturesque moment, surrounded by the city's vibrancy, we knew that our journey as partners would be filled with authenticity, love, and the beauty of embracing each other's true selves.