Pop Sensation Jessica Simpson realized she had to marry her singer boyfriend Nick Lachey after the possibilty without him flashed before her eyes Sept. 11.

Simpson was dating the 98 degrees hunk for more than a year when she decided to put their romance on hold in June 2001 so she could spend more time focusing on her career.

But when her former love called her from new york's la quardia airport minutes after the second plane smashed into the world trade center, the irresitible singer was realieved she was ok.

Amid her tears Simpson begged Lachey to give there relationship another go.

"We went through a breakup and it was the stupidest thing I've ever done in my life. the worst thing ever." Simpson, 21, said


"we got back together Sept 12th. The horrific events of 9/11 put my life in perspective and made me realize who is more important to me--and that is nick"

Lachey, 28 who sang a hit duet with called where you are insists he never stopped loving her during the split.

"I was watching the whole diaster on TV at the airport. I kne\w Jessica was in LA and I called to let her know I was all right." he says.

"It freaked her out. It made us both realize how we felt for each other."

Now the couples eagerly preparing for their forthcoming nuptials later this year. The exact date hasn't been set yet.

"Marriage means so much to me" Says devout Babtist, Simpson/ Who has been saving herself for her wedding night.

So far the couple has gotten around their "no living together" promise by having sepreate apartments in the same complex in Los angeles. But as the wedding date approaches the lovebirds are excitedly shopping for a large home with plenty of room for children.

"I can't wait to say 'I do'" says Lachey.