It all began in 2017 when we crossed paths on Tinder, not knowing that a simple swipe would ignite a connection that would shape the rest of our lives. What started as a casual conversation turned into something deeper — something that felt destined. As we got to know each other, we quickly discovered just how much we had in common. Our shared love for Broadway shows, music, movies, and travel gave us endless conversations and adventures from the very beginning.

Six months into our relationship, Casey had the privilege of meeting Sabella, Shannon's daughter. It marked a significant moment for both of us, as we navigated the blend of romance and family, understanding that this was a journey not just between two people, but between a whole new family. Casey embraced this role with love and care, building a relationship with Sabella that only grew stronger over time.

Our first three years together were filled with countless memories: spontaneous trips, cozy nights watching movies, and a constant flow of laughter and music in our lives. As the relationship deepened, so did our connection. We supported each other through life's ups and downs, and we learned how to grow, not only as individuals but as a couple, making each other better every step of the way.

After three years of dating, we decided to take the next big step and move in together. It was a new chapter, one that brought challenges, but also so much joy. We quickly realized that we worked well as a team, building a home filled with love, warmth, and shared dreams. The bond we shared became even more unshakable, as we settled into life together and continued to build a future we both felt excited about.

In 2023, we achieved one of the biggest milestones of our relationship: we bought our first home together. It wasn’t just a house; it was a symbol of our growth, our hard work, and our unwavering commitment to one another. Every brick, every room, every corner of that house was a testament to the journey we had been on and the one we were about to embark on.

But our adventures weren’t done yet. In 2024, we finally fulfilled a dream we had talked about for years — a trip to Europe. For Shannon, this journey was especially meaningful. She had always wanted to visit Malta, where her family’s roots are, and to connect with her heritage. That dream was brought to life, and the trip felt like something out of a storybook.

One of Shannon’s favorite stories growing up was about her grandparents’ love — a real-life fairytale that had always captured her heart. Her grandmother would tell the tale of how she first saw Shannon’s grandfather in church and declared that he was the man she was going to marry one day. It was a story that symbolized love at first sight and a lifelong connection.

While in Malta, we visited that very church, the place where Shannon’s grandmother had that fateful moment all those years ago. Standing in that sacred space, it felt as if time had looped itself — connecting generations of love and commitment. In that very church, surrounded by history, beauty, and the spirit of love, Casey took Shannon's hand and asked her the most important question of all: "Will you marry me?"

The proposal was a perfect reflection of our story — a blend of tradition, love, and the deep connection we’ve always shared. It felt like our love had come full circle, intertwining the past, present, and future in the most meaningful way.

The last eight years together have been filled with so much growth, love, and adventure. We’ve navigated life’s milestones, faced challenges, and celebrated triumphs side by side. From the day we met to buying our first house, traveling the world, and now embarking on the journey of marriage — it has been a beautiful, ever-evolving love story.

This is just the beginning of the next chapter, and we can't wait to see where life takes us next.