It was year two of the global pandemic. People were itching to engage with others and be outside again. Topher stepped out to the quarter with his childhood bestie Elliot, and fate would also pull Donald out with his "Good Judy" Justin who coaxed him into a turn up, as he was reluctant to be social that night. At this time, only one gay bar was open. Both our lovers were out with their good friends at "Good Friends" for a good time, but the bars closed at 11pm, so all the gays would get one last drink and pour out into the cross section of St. Ann and Dauphine to keep the night going. Once out on the street, Justin said to Donald "Oh look black people, let's go talk to them." Donald turned to see and spotted Elliot and Topher standing on the corner. Donald was immediately intrigued with Topher's style because he was wearing a wide brimmed hat which was not the norm for a local New Orleans man. When Donald and Justin approached, they all exchanged names and Donald emboldened by liquid courage looked Topher in his eyes, took him by the hand and said "Let me holla at you for a minute." Donald led them a few steps away, they embraced each other, shared a first kiss, and planned a first date the very next day. The date went well, they discussed life, family, love, dreams and aspirations, and decided to see how well they continued to get along. And get along they DID! On May 28, 2021, they became an official pair. They were New Orleans boys who left to make a life for themselves in big cities, but came back as men who found their love at home in the heart of the Crescent City.

After two years of experiencing a relationship that included a commitment to each other, the joy and support from their family and friends, scenic travels both domestic and abroad, the highs and lows that life grants to make us love harder and grow stronger, a joint vision to create a beautiful home, a prosperous family, a thriving career, and the betterment of their community; Donald knew it was more than enough to make a strong and lasting union. On the second anniversary of when they made their love official, Donald planned a surprise engagement proposal to Topher. He created a feaux flyer for a real event. The event was a rooftop party which consisted of a live performance, a DJ, and complimentary food and signature cocktails because he knew it was going to be a celebration. He also knew he needed to entice their family and friends' attendance without too much explanation. Though that day started casually, Donald was anxious. Topher took note of his demeanor, but was unaware of what was to transpire. The plan was to have an anniversary dinner at San Lorenzo in Hotel St. Vincent, and soon after head over to the "rooftop party." Dinner went well. There was slight tension at the start because Topher was agitated with how anxious Donald had become throughout the day. But that tension subsided as they made a toast to the blessing that is a renewed year of Black Love. They enjoyed the Caesar and the fish. Donald had two cocktails. Topher had two and a beer. They skipped dessert and were off to the party. As they reached the top of the stairs leading to the rooftop, Topher begins to see some familiar faces; faces of family he was not intending to see that evening. He is still unaware of what is really happening. As they walked closer toward the crowd, an acoustic version of Mariah Carey's "My All" was being sung live. There was a photographer taking shots. Phones taking video, and smiles and tears on the verge of giving it all away. Donald pulled Topher into the middle of the crowd. Some are still unsure of what is about to go down. The music became instrumental, as Donald took the microphone to face Topher, and began to express the love that he feels for him and the life he wants to create with him. Donald was handed a box with the ring that Topher has wanted for years and assuredly asks for his hand in marriage. Topher, wrought with emotion and utter shock, says "Yes!" They embraced. They Kissed. They smiled. They embraced again, and kissed, and smiled. They spent the rest of the evening celebrating their choice to grow in love while surrounded by the love and support of their family and friends. Theirs is a seventh ward, black gay love story that was written in the stars by their ancestors, and soon to be blessed by God!