Our story begins in 2017 in Manalapan, NJ, at a charming deli called Pastosa Ravioli. I was working behind the counter when Bianca Toto walked in with her mom. The moment our eyes met, the bustling world around us seemed to pause. It was at that moment her face became so familiar. Although we never spoke or met in high school, I remembered a brief silent exchange in high school. What seems like fate now, our eyes meeting in the deli, re-sparked a memory of a passing glimpse in the school halls and a familiarity in acknowledging her unforgettable beauty.

Determined to impress her, I pushed aside my coworkers to assist them, seizing every opportunity to make their experience delightful. Each time they visited, I made sure to bring up their order to the register, cherishing those extra moments with her. It was on a particularly busy Sunday that our connection deepened. Amidst a sea of customers, Bianca was the only one I truly saw. The world stopped, whatever Frankie Valli song that was on the store radio drowned out.

Our eyes lingered on each other, and as I stood there speechless, she started to leave, and gave me the greatest moment of my life. A second glance—a silent invitation and the confidence to ask her out. My boss, Mike, noticing our interaction, remarked, "Hey, I think she likes you." In a moment of starry-eyed wonder, I replied, "What if I marry her?" (Yes I really said that!) To my boss's amusement, he offered the most sane advice, "Why don’t you start with a first date..?"

And so, our journey began. Seven years later, our relationship has blossomed into a beautiful garden, filled with love, partnership, and an unbreakable bond. We are not just partners, but best friends, cherishing every moment we've shared and looking forward to the countless memories we'll create together. Our love is irreplaceable and the greatest blessing in our lives. For our love is not a lottery won, but a commitment we will always do.