In Summer 2022, Markus and Derek were ready for engagement. But who would propose to whom? With Derek immediately suspicious of any mention of rings, weddings, venues, etc. Markus hatched a plan to gather friends together for a Thanksgiving trip to Asheville, NC for a scenic backdrop for an engagement.

Everyone was on board and Derek remained suspicious.

On the appointed day, everyone knew to enthusiastically agree to any suggestion Markus made to go to a scenic location. Except Derek. We finally made it to a park, still beautiful with the last of the fall colors where Markus asked Derek to marry him. (He said yes!) Later in the evening, Derek revealed he had also brought an engagement ring for Markus on the trip, knowing something was afoot. Neither ring fit...