Life has a way of testing bonds, and for us, no test was as intense as the tempest named COVID. The world may remember it as a global pandemic, but for us, it bore the weight of longing as I found myself anchored in India, while Nikki, with the heart of a warrior, battled the virus on the front lines as a junior doctor in London. Our love, stretched across miles, navigated the treacherous waters of distance, challenging careers, and a world suspended in uncertainty. But, as love stories go, we emerged stronger, our bond unyielding.

In these dynamic five years, pointing to one pinnacle moment is like asking the stars which among them shines the brightest. Yet, the pride of becoming homeowners stands tall in our shared journey. We transitioned from fresh university graduates, eager and green, to navigating professional labyrinths, cherishing the exhilaration of that first paycheck, embarking on soulful drives across the UK, and weaving dreams of a shared future that had the blessings of our families. Truly, every step of our journey has been nothing short of magical.

While the world defines a home by its grandeur, for Nikki and me, it was a modest room in Wales,UK. Though miles away in London, my heart and footsteps found their way to this space time and again. It was here that we began our experiment of living together, sharing our daily routines, dreams, and the simple moments that make life extraordinary. This humble room, echoing with our laughter, dreams, and whispered secrets, effortlessly transformed into 'home'. And in this sanctuary of memories, I found the perfect setting to ask her to be mine forever.

Though I had envisioned the proposal in my heart for weeks, orchestrating it took a touch longer than expected, hunting for that impeccable moment. Yet, when the stars finally aligned, I poured my heart into it. With the engagement ring secretly tucked away for a month, I crafted a lavish three-course dinner, with the warmth of enchiladas and the sweet allure of panna cottas. The room shimmered with strategically placed lights, guiding Nikki to a table set for two. And just when the evening felt like another cherished memory, I took a leap of faith, went down on one knee, and bared my soul. What ensued was a symphony of emotions, with tears flowing freely for nearly an hour, culminating in the sweetest ‘yes’ I’ve ever heard.