Did I marry my teenage boyfriend?

Question:

Hello Sir,

I hope you’re doing well. I have a quick question and would truly appreciate your biblical insight regarding marriage covenants.

When I was in high school, at the age of 15, I had a boyfriend with whom I was sinfully involved, and I’ve since repented and deeply regretted those choices. I’m now in my 30s and have been married to another man for the past 15 years.

This may be a silly question, but I’m hoping to put to rest a worry I’ve had since reading an article about common-law marriages online recently.

In an emotional moment during that teenage relationship, we exchanged what felt like “marriage vows” in a burger chain restaurant. He gave me a ring from a quarter machine, and 1–2 of our teenage friends were there, mostly watching and giggling. There were no adults present, no church involvement, and no legal paperwork; we later broke up — no legal process or divorce was ever involved.

I now understand that biblical marriage is a covenant, not just a feeling or private promise. But just to put this worry to rest, would that teenage moment be considered a real marriage or covenant in God’s eyes? And is my current marriage still valid and binding before God?

Thank you so much for your time and for your faithful service in helping others walk in truth.