Hailey is from Mississippi, and she never imagined that a temporary stop in South Dakota would turn into something so permanent. In July of 2024, she was on a travel contract working in the Emergency Department in Rapid City. What started as a connection at work quickly grew into something much more meaningful.
In September, Riley moved back home to Rapid City and started working in the ED as a Technician. Hailey thought Riley was sweet, kind, and always smiling. It didn’t take Riley long for him to realize Hailey was someone special. He thought she was incredibly smart, beautiful, and someone he wanted to get to know better. What Hailey didn’t know was that Riley was already telling his friends and family about her, referring to her as his “work girlfriend” long before she had any idea.
In October, Riley finally worked up the courage to get Hailey’s number when running into her in Deadwood. After a few attempts and a little persistence, Hailey agreed to go on a date.
They went to sushi and then walked through the Christmas lights at Storybook Island. Riley may have been nervous; evidence by a spilled bowl of soy sauce, but the conversations flowed effortlessly. They instantly matched each other’s energy.
On December 28, 2024, Riley and Hailey officially became boyfriend and girlfriend. From there, they quickly realized not only how much they had in common, their love for family, friends, travel, and adventures but also how well they work together as a team in the Emergency Department, especially in high stress trauma situations.
They moved in together in March, traveled to Mississippi so Hailey could introduce Riley to her family, and later spent three weeks exploring Europe together. By October, they were settling into their first apartment.
In January 2026, Riley started nursing school, and life got busier, but they always made time for each other, whether it was date nights or quiet nights at home. Meanwhile Hailey had no idea that there was a hidden ring in the bedroom closet.
In April, Riley planned a weekend trip to Chicago. On April 4th, at Milton Lee Olive Park, overlooking the city skyline, he asked Hailey to marry him.
Their families and friends were waiting to surprise them and celebrate the beginning of their next chapter together.
And the best part? It’s only just beginning
Our Story
