It was long car rides, endless summer days on the beach, and a friendship that never wavered. Billy says he first noticed me in gym class, wearing a Prince T-shirt—and if you know Billy, you know he remembers every detail! Over the years, I’ve always cherished Billy’s friendship. I’ve called on him more times than I can count—especially when love didn’t quite work out. And if you know me, you know! Then came the 2024 annual BBQ. one I usually only attended every other year. But this time was different. Our friend Joe Howard asked, “What about Billy Pennella?” And before I knew it, he kissed me goodbye, and we knew, in that very moment, that our lives were about to change. We both felt it instantly. what had always been there, quietly growing, was now ready to blossom.