A Love that Bloomed on September 20th, 2018.

It was September 20th, 2018, when everything changed. A simple college night out turned into meeting their soulmates. Nicholas, at the time a stranger, approached Gianna with something unexpected: a pink flower. Nicholas, with his easy smile and a glint of something in his eyes that Gianna couldn’t quite place, handed her a radiant pink flower. Gianna couldn’t help but smile, taken aback by the gesture. After a brief exchange, he asked for her number.

Over the next few days, Nicholas texted her, asking her out on several dates—each time, she politely declined. It wasn’t until one evening, a few weeks later, that she finally said yes. They watched Scooby-Doo, sipping wine, and talking about everything and nothing. What started as a simple hangout blossomed into something much deeper. They found joy in the smallest things—whether it was lazy Sunday mornings, jamming out to music in the living room, or exploring new restaurants.

College life was full of possibilities, and now it was also full of each other. Through the ups and downs of four years, Nicholas was always by her side. He supported Gianna through late-night study sessions, endless exams, and moments of self-doubt. When she struggled with her classes, he was there, offering words of encouragement and a steady hand to hold. They had dreams, and those dreams grew together—his of becoming an successful businessman, hers of becoming a doctor. It wasn’t just about celebrating accomplishments, it was about the support he gave her in the quieter moments—the times she doubted herself the most. Nicholas believed in her even when she wasn’t sure she could believe in herself.

After graduation, Gianna took a gap year to gain more experience before applying to medical school. Nicholas was right there with her, helping her navigate the emotional rollercoaster of the application process. His belief in her dreams never wavered, and he was there to pick up the pieces when things got tough.

When Gianna was accepted into medical school in Arizona, it felt like the beginning of a new chapter for both of them. And just like that, Nicholas headed west with her to help her find the perfect apartment to call home. But, it wasn’t just about the apartment hunt. On the morning of their apartment hunt, they decided to take a sunrise hike. The cool desert air kissed their skin as they climbed to the summit of Camelback mountain. As Gianna was overlooking the vast, endless horizon, Nicholas, out of her view, asked if her if she wanted a snack. She turned around to retrieve a snack, and found Nicholas on one knee, with a smile that made her heart skip a beat. There, he asked her to Marry her.

With the promise of forever in their hearts, they began the next chapter of their story. The rest of the day was a blur of happiness as they found their first apartment together, knowing that no matter what came next, they were ready to face it—together.