In the enchanting halls of Claflin University, where the air buzzed with youthful enthusiasm and possibilities, Jeff, the charismatic president of the Young Democrats organization, and Shantavia, a wide-eyed freshman attending an interest meeting, found themselves drawn together in a narrative that would become their own love story.

Their journey began when Jeff, a junior at the time, couldn't help but develop a crush on Shantavia. However, the unspoken longing lingered until a mutual colleague, entrusted with Jeff's secret admiration, spilled the beans to Shantavia during a cozy December break in 2017. This revelation marked the beginning of a new chapter for the pair.

Their story, however, didn't unfold in a rushed manner. Instead, they chose the path of friendship first, allowing their connection to naturally evolve. Life on campus continued with general body meetings, shared community service, and the unspoken yet palpable connection between them. A short break tested their connection, but even during that time, they remained close, a secret shared only between them.

As the pages turned, 2018 revealed a realization — they were meant to be together. However, it wasn't until December 21, 2019, that they decided to give their relationship a second chance. They embarked on a new adventure together, moving to North Carolina, Jeff pursuing a Juris Doctor and Shantavia chasing her dream of a Doctorate of Pharmacy. The move not only strengthened their bond but also solidified their commitment to supporting each other's dreams.

Their love story, however, extended beyond the borders of Claflin University. Occuring connections emerged, unveiling a tapestry of intertwined family histories. Shantavia's great-grandmother, Blossom, had once crafted a home remedy for Jeff's father, creating an unforeseen link between their families. Even their fathers and uncles had shared friendships, and it seemed as though, regardless of Claflin, their paths were destined to cross.

Jeff's certainty that he had found his wife on the Claflin campus culminated in a heartfelt proposal on December 3, 2022. Shantavia, equally certain that Jeff was the man of her dreams, said yes. Their love story, encapsulated in the hashtag #OurHartsDesire, is not just a tale of young love; it's a narrative woven with threads of fate, family, and a love that persevered through time and distance.

Now, as they stand on the threshold of a new journey, Jeff and Shantavia are poised to live out their love story, a tale that began at Claflin University and continues to unfold with every beat of their hearts. May their future be filled with the echoes of their shared laughter, the warmth of their enduring love, and the magic of a story that's uniquely theirs.

#OurHartsDesire

S&J