Erik Rancatore failed geometry during high school at , but he says it's the best thing that ever happened to him.
"I had to take summer school ... and I met the love of my life there," he said.
On Tuesday, Rancatore celebrated his seventh anniversary with graduate Megan Flynn by surprising her with an engagement ring. The two started dating in high school and continued to do so while attending Southern Illinois University.
But for the anniversary, Flynn had no idea what to expect. Rancatore blindfolded her and drove her from their Chicago home to New Lenox, where the two met during summer school.
They continued to get to know each other because they were both involved with the musical programs, and Rancatore said when he came to see her perform during their senior year, he knew she was the one.
A few weeks ago, Rancatore got Flynn's father's blessing and put the wheels in motion for a surprise engagement. He decided he wanted it to be at a place they knew well and loved deeply: the Lincoln-Way Central auditorium.
Rancatore contacted Central choral director Mike Bultman, who helped set it up. About 30 friends and family members filled the first couple of rows and sat quietly waiting for Rancatore and Flynn's arrival.
The rest can be seen in the video above.
"He got me good," Flynn said. "I had no idea what was happening."
Do you have a great engagement story? Tell us in the comments!
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