Neither wanted to step over that line.

Christie Grays Chambers and Jermaine Chambers had been friends for 12 years but never considered dating. Jermaine, a business manager with Williamson Automotive Group and Christie, vice president lead, healthcare practice at Blanca Commercial Real Estate, would occasionally meet up on a professional basis.

“I didn’t know her from Adam,” recalls Jermaine. “Our relationship was built over time.”

For her part, Christie wasn’t particularly interested in romance. .

“I was single for so long and I became content,” she says.  “A peace came over me in my 30s so getting married and having children was not a priority.” Jermaine, however, had different plans.

He decided to take it a step further by wooing her with a glass of Pimm’s followed by a cool chaser of his charms. They began their courtship at a comedy club and laughed their way into each other’s arms. “After the show he held my hand,” said Christie. “I didn’t let go and the rest is history.” Married for five years, he is still mesmerized by her intellect and her beauty. She is drawn by his kindness  (Donating a kidney to a former football teammate is just one of many reasons why she remains enthralled.)

“Jermaine loves God,” said Christie. “And it’s unbelievable how he wants the best for me and treats me the way I have always wanted to be treated.”She encourages her single friends to try and enjoy the dating process and especially consider those that might be right under their noses.      .

And for the fellas? Jermaine offers this advice. “I’d like to encourage men to allow, encourage and expect growth from their women,” he says.

“Just like in the game of chess, men need to understand that their queen can make every move on the board despite not possessing all of the power. The power resides in the king but my queen makes all of the moves.” He says that he always tries to keep the spotlight on his wife and that her being successful adds value to their home

“I’m secure within myself to allow her grace and growth without it impeding on my manhood or ego,” he said while pointing out that  loving and working together is the ultimate goal. “Teamwork makes the dream work in the Chambers household.”