What was supposed to be a simple birthday and surprise graduation party turned into one of the most unforgettable days of my life. Earlier that year, I had made it very clear to Antonio that when the time came, it was important for my family to be there. I had even spent months collecting potential “engagement outfits”—just in case. So, when the morning of July 6 arrived and Antonio was unusually insistent that I wear a specific dress, I didn’t think much of it. I agreed, laughing to myself that this was supposed to be an engagement dress—but hey, might as well wear it to a party. Throughout the day, I kept joking about the dress, and my cousins and sister jumped in too, teasing Antonio about when he was finally going to propose. Still, I had no clue what was coming. At one point during the party, Antonio asked if we could step away and take a picture together—just the two of us. I found it a little odd that we weren’t taking one with the birthday and graduation honorees, but I went along with it. While posing, I joked aloud, “Take this last picture of me being a girlfriend!” Totally unaware of how true that statement was about to become. Then suddenly, our song started playing—our song—thanks to my mom. I was immediately irritated and confused (because, why now?). But before I could make sense of it all, Antonio was down on one knee. Time stopped. The world around me faded, and in that instant, it was just the two of us. My heart was full, and the tears came fast. Pure joy. Pure bliss. A moment I’ll never forget.