Doug and Veronica lived strangely parallel lives. They traveled on the same cruise ship in the same year decades ago, lived half a mile apart for 24 years, and likely passed each other in the grocery store many times. However, unless two lines are perfectly parallel, they will eventually cross. Doug knew the first time he saw Veronica they would be together, though he brushed it off, thinking: “That’s stupid, you don’t even know her. She’s just the clerk at the cigar shop.” Veronica remembers a tall guy always dressed for golf. Once, she asked him, “Did you win?” He replied, “Yes. I always win. I used to play professionally.” Unimpressed, she thought it was a bit arrogant. God has plans in action, even if they didn’t realize it at the time. After Doug didn't visit the shop for nine months, he returned to learn Veronica had lost her husband. Heartbroken for her and her children, he returned the next day to offer condolences. Months later, birthday flowers on the counter prompted Doug to ask about her plans. “Probably just go out to eat by myself,” she said. Doug insisted no one should be alone on their birthday and offered to take her out as friends. She declined but saved his number (as Doug Golfer, since that's all she knew) in case she changed her mind. Veronica told him, “I’m not looking for a boyfriend,” and Doug replied, “Good. Because I’m not looking to date anyone, I'm never getting married again.” Weeks later, Doug texted to see if she wanted to grab a drink. Veronica replied, “Too late, already drinking,” with a photo from a cruise ship pool deck. They texted throughout her trip. Upon her return, Doug asked about her plans for the upcoming Ohio State game. Veronica mentioned her open-door watch party policy. Doug said, “You should invite me over.” Veronica reminded him anyone was welcome. Since he only knew her general neighborhood, he joked he'd knock on every door until he found her. Amused by his determination, she gave him the address. That game was the start of their story; everything before was merely the prologue. Since that day, Doug and Veronica have had many deep conversations, laughs, tears, and adventures—building a strong foundation and growing a deep love that neither of them thought they were looking for, but coming to realize just how grateful they are to have it. They don’t use the word "lucky," because luck has nothing to do with it. Those who know Doug know he’s passionate (to put it mildly) about Ohio State football. So when #2 Ohio State played #1 Texas in the 2025 season opener, his jittery behavior seemed completely normal to Veronica. She had told him many times that he could never surprise her and that she would see a proposal coming from a mile away—so she didn't suspect a thing. As usual, the door was open, food was out, and neighbors were over in the finished basement. Little did Veronica know, a secret proposal plot was already in motion. At halftime, Doug went upstairs. Upon returning, he made it down the basement stairs before his old knee injury suddenly "went out," causing him to collapse. He lay on his back, clutching his knee in apparent agony. Shocked, Veronica was urged by her neighbor, Jo, to go help him. But the moment she rushed over, Doug smoothly rolled onto one knee—proving her wrong and starting their next chapter exactly where their story began, during an OSU watch party. Doug and Veronica have a clock on the wall that reminds them that “Every moment is a gift. Make the most of them.” They embrace that and give thanks every moment of every day. They are grateful for every family member and friend they have, because every experience they’ve had on the road to here has made them the people they are today, and they wouldn’t change one thing (watch the movie Mr. Destiny). Doug and Veronica truly appreciate the support and love they’ve received as individuals and as a couple. They can’t wait to have their guests share in the celebration of their love on September 19.