From two young teenagers in Missouri to where we are today, this is the story of how it all began. We met at the ages of 13 and 14 in Springfield, Missouri, at the birthday party of a mutual friend. At the end of the evening, the birthday girl’s father kindly offered several guests a ride home. As it turned out, we were the only two who lived on the south side of town and the last to be dropped off. With the car gradually emptying, we found ourselves in conversation that flowed effortlessly. Time seemed to pass in an instant as we laughed together in the back seat—an ordinary moment that would become the beginning of something extraordinary. Over the years, we remained connected as friends. Although our communication was at times inconsistent, each conversation felt as though no time had passed at all. There were moments when our connection hinted at something more, but the timing was never quite right, and both of us still had growing to do. Even so, our paths continued to cross, and we always shared an unspoken understanding that we would be there for one another. In 2020 and 2021, despite living in different cities, our connection began to deepen in a meaningful way. As we reconnected, it became clear how much we had each grown as individuals—and how the bond we first formed years earlier had never truly faded. During this period of change and transition in both of our lives, we became steady sources of support and encouragement for one another. As time went on, we found ourselves reflecting on what we had always known in our hearts. Despite the challenges of timing and distance, the connection we shared, the growth we had witnessed in one another, and the love that had developed between us could no longer be overlooked. In August 2021, Gabrielle moved to Austin, Texas, to begin graduate school at the University of Texas at Austin. Shortly thereafter, we made the decision to begin our relationship, committed to giving it the genuine chance it deserved. With intention and determination, we chose each other every day, even in the face of distance and uncertainty. Not long after, Jonathan made the decision to fully invest in our future together, choosing to leave behind everything familiar in Missouri to build a life in Texas. After months of preparation, he relocated to Austin in March 2022. Since then, we have built a home and a life together—one grounded in love, growth, and shared purpose. Through every season, we have witnessed each other evolve and grow. While we have cherished every version of one another along the way, nothing compares to the love we share today. Our relationship has brought profound growth and joy into our lives and the lives of those around us. We are deeply grateful for the grace, love, and guidance that have led us to this moment.