Written by Darlissa: Santiago and I are both Rio Grande Valley natives. We attended the same high school but hardly knew anything about each other. Santiago and I had two completely different lives and were pretty non-existent to each other. After graduating college, I accepted my first full-time job in San Antonio. We had somehow became friends on social media and after realizing we both had Golden Retrievers, we began exchanging "snaps" here and there. Once I had officially announced I was living in San Antonio, Santiago reached out to ask if I would dog sit his sweet girl, Layla. Completely oblivious to what was happening, I gladly accepted. I thought it was the perfect playdate for our puppies. My first instinct when he arrived was, "This guy is leaving his dog with a complete stranger!" But also, this guy is sweet, charming and so down to earth. I, on the other hand, was in my pajamas with messed up hair. Typical. After spending the day with Layla, he finally arrived to pick her up. And guess what? He was SO tipsy. I guess he needed a bit of courage for what would be the most intentional conversation we would have that night. We talked for hours and finally he asked me on a proper date the next day. After laughing until my stomach hurt, smiling until I couldn't feel my cheeks and a few Chuy's margaritas, I knew he was really special. I was so captivated by his heart which was so gentle and sincere, his smile which was contagious and his sense of humor that would keep me laughing. More than that, I was in love with his desire to pursue my heart and his determination. I did not make it easy for him, but thank God for his consistency. Only God could have crafted something so special in the season that He did.