We never saw it coming. We were just coworkers, crossing paths because of the job, with no thought of anything more. But somewhere along the way, helping each other out became a habit, and that habit turned into conversation, and conversation turned into something neither of us expected. It wasn’t long before we exchanged numbers and started talking outside of work, and those conversations turned into hanging out, just the two of us. Eventually I worked up the nerve to ask her on a real date. From there, our relationship grew into something neither of us was looking for but both of us wanted.

When I finally proposed, I wanted it to feel like a movie. There was music playing and cameras rolling. But while I was caught up in the weight of the moment, she was doing what she always does: putting her own welfare on pause to take care of others. She was quietly making sure the food was right and everyone had a seat. She was so entirely wrapped up in making sure our guests were comfortable that she completely missed the massive ‘Will You Marry Me?’ sign.