Caden and Alaina first met back in 2022 through Alaina’s brother, Noah. That fall semester of their sophomore year at OSU, Caden and Noah became roommates while Alaina was still a high schooler with a quiet crush on her older brother’s cute friend. Time passed with little interaction between the two until Caden moved in with the Ropp family, just before he and Noah embarked on their study abroad journey to Spain. It was during this time that Alaina and Caden truly got to know each other, slowly building the foundation of a friendship.

Though there was always a spark between them, Caden was patient and respectful while living in the Ropp household, choosing to wait before expressing how he truly felt.

After moving out, he finally began reaching out to Alaina socially, catching her by surprise. She wasn’t quite sure why he wanted to talk to her—until New Year’s Eve, when Caden took a bold step and shared his feelings. To his surprise and joy, Alaina felt the same. While everything felt uncertain, it was exciting and full of possibility.

Soon after, Caden and Noah left for Spain, and he and Alaina began their relationship long-distance for the next five months. Despite the 7-hour time difference, they grew to understand each other’s hearts and character more deeply during their time apart. Alaina was even able to visit Caden in the beautiful city of Valencia a couple of times, helping to break up what felt like the longest wait.

Caden returned home in mid-June, and at last, the two could be together in person. Every moment since has been cherished—tangible evidence of the Lord’s faithfulness. And now, they’re counting down the days to celebrate the incredible gift of unity between two people.

In God’s perfect timing, there was always an invisible string.