It was the weekend of July 4th in Long Branch, New Jersey where Akia and Manny first met. Prior that day, Manny reached out to Akia through Instagram about his meal prep company in search of sponsored athletes. After a few days of discussing business, Akia posted about heading to a beach club called Avenue at the Jersey Shore for the holiday weekend. Manny noticed her post, reached out to Akia about meeting her at the event. Who would have thought it would be the meeting that would start the new beginning to their lives. On that day, Manny was excited and nervous to meet Akia in person for the first time. He spotted her and her friend walking across the beach towards the tiki bar. During this time, Manny's best friend was helping him gain confidence to approach Akia. He finally did as she was looking for him. Manny was able to find his confidence, reached out for Akia and offered her a drink. They would spend a few hours together along with friends. But sadly, Akia needed to leave him sooner than expected. But the day didn't end there. Akia's friend convinced Akia to come out again that night where she met with Manny for the second time. Although Manny and Akia's friend created an instant bromance, that did not stop Manny from spinning her around on the dance floor. What a fun night they had which ended in Manny walking Akia to her car, popcorn and their first kiss. From that point on, Manny and Akia would date long distance for three and a half years which led to Manny finally making the move from Jersey to Virginia somewhat full time for the past year and a half. Entering into new chapters in their relationship, the Love they have for each other is unbreakable.

Manny is always full of surprises. May 4, 2019, Manny took Akia to get her hair and makeup done. Prior this day, Manny surprised Akia with a trip to Puerto Rico for her birthday. But because of the surprised trip, Akia assumed things to be low key poor planning. After getting her hair and makeup done, Manny told Akia she was not able to go home to change for their dinner he made reservations for. Which stemmed an argument. So Manny took her to the nearest mall where Akia found a dress and shoes in 10 minutes while still yelling at Manny at the same time. Once she purchased her things, Akia had to change in the car and Manny tied a blindfold over her eyes. 30 minutes later, manny walked her (still blindfolded) inside the restaurant which turned out to be there apartment community space full of some of our closest friends and family. She was beyond shocked. Manny catered her favorite italian restaurant, her favorite cupcakes and hired her favorite bartender. Love was in the air but the surprises didnt stop there. Manny pulled out his phone and started talking to everyone. He was a little tipsy so Akia decided to sit for his speech. As Manny continues to talk about them as a couple, Akia notices her best friend across the room crying. She mouths to her "why are you crying"... at that point, Manny turns to Akia's brother, he was given a small black box and at that moment Akia was in tears and Manny was on one knee. Their friends shot confetti all over the room and the moment they both were waiting for after 4 and a half years together finally came true. Akia and Manny are engaged.