Its funny how the love of your life was in front of you this entire time, but the both of you just needed to go through the trials and tribulations life had to offer.

That is the epitome of Samantha and Craig's story, which is one for the books!

Samantha and Craig share a mutual aunt, uncle, and cousins. Now, I see where this is going.... but I assure you, this isn't some House of the Dragon ploy in which uniting the houses of Targaryen and Velaryon would strengthen the realm, and show that better days are ahead. Its as simple as Samantha's blood aunt, married Craig's blood uncle; and as a result, Samantha and Craig were subject to spending a great deal of time together at family parties and holidays.

Although they are five years apart, a friendship bloomed between Samantha and Craig when Samantha was 5 years old and Craig was 10 years old. The year was 1995, and a kindergarten buddy system had been implemented, in which a fifth grader would show a kindergartener how to function in the public school system. Well Samantha was Craig's kindergarten buddy. Craig read books to Samantha, colored with her, and even reprimanded her to be quiet while the teacher was speaking. Ever since then, Samantha and Craig formed a bond like no other, which lead into adulthood.

As the years progressed, Samantha and Craig continued to be drawn to one another. They always sat with one another at gatherings, engaged in friendly banter, and accompanied one another at group outings. There was always a sense of chemistry and comfort whenever they were together.

Along the way, Craig developed feelings for Samantha. In July of 2019, Craig and Samantha met each other in Northport Village for happy hour. Craig arrived in a black dress shirt, with a purple tie, gray dress pants and dress shoes. Immediately, Samantha said "Doesn't your job know its casual Friday, or did you seriously dress up for this occasion?". In good ol' Zecca zinger fashion, Craig replied "Good one".

It was on that fine July evening that Craig finally told Samantha at a brewery, "I've had feelings for you for 10 years, I just never told you". This of course was after Samantha spilled the entire contents of her bag out onto the sticky bar floor.

Samantha was in complete shock at this news. She clutched her disgusting sour beer in her hand, and questioned "Ten years ago?! At what point ?!". Also this is a good time to point out that Craig said "you're not going to like that beer", as soon as Samantha placed her order. Of course he was right.

Craig responded, "During your wedding party entrance at Leeann's wedding when you threw your bouquet in the air. As soon as you did that, I thought to myself, "I am going to marry that girl someday"."

Samantha was speechless, and beside herself with happiness. Her family and friends always rooted for Craig since the beginning, and encouraged her to explore a relationship with him, but it was uncertainty of whether Craig would reciprocate those feelings that prevented Samantha's pursuit. Deep down, Samantha always knew Craig would somehow be her endgame. Even if it seemed unattainable at times.

It was then, that Samantha and Craig entered a relationship, and where they both found love and a home within each other.

Craig followed Samantha to Law School, where she attended New England Law, Boston in 2020. During their time away in Boston, Craig furthered his career in accounting, making impeccable strides. Even during the most unprecedented of times, Craig and Samantha embraced change, and laughed in the face of adversity.

Craig and Samantha have been through amazing highs and woeful lows, but they have always come out of those times hand in hand, stronger than ever and resilient.

Craig manifested his intentions, and is now marrying the girl he said he would marry all those years ago. They both grow more in love as the days come and go. They both didn't even realize a love like this was possible, and claim that the love they have for one another actually hurts. They are looking forward to embracing and navigating this new chapter of their lives as husband and wife.