Our love story began on a random school day in 2015, inside a high school gym a few hours before a basketball game. From across the court, Davaughn noticed Genise and couldn’t stop asking the people around him who she was. Something about her drew him in instantly. Gathering the courage to walk over, Davaughn finally introduced himself and asked Genise to be his Valentine. That one simple question became the beginning of a love that would change both of our lives forever. Our very first date was at the movies, and in many ways, it set the tone for our relationship. From that moment on, movie dates, snack runs, and day trips to NY became our thing. Each date and small moment together turned into countless conversations, inside jokes, and a friendship that grew just as strong as our love. We didn’t just grow together, we explored the world together. Our first trip outside the country took us to Jamaica, creating memories we’ll cherish forever. That trip cemented our love and showed us that no matter where we went, being together was what mattered most. During this time, Genise was also on her educational journey. Moving from Pennsylvania to the Appalachians of Virginia, our love continued to stretch across states, but it never broke. Distance only made us stronger through late-night FaceTime calls, constant check-ins, and long train rides by Davaughn (He even drove in his broken-down hoopty back and forth just to see Genise). Genise eventually earned her two degrees, and we decided it was time to move in together. Over the years, our relationship grew into something deeper than romance. We became best friends, each other’s safe space, biggest supporters, and favorite people to laugh with. We grew together, learned together, and chose each other every single day. After 10 beautiful years of love, memories, and growth, we celebrated our journey with a trip to Aruba. On “One Happy Island,” Davaughn asked Genise to marry him along the crystal blue waters of Baby Beach, marking the beginning of the next chapter of our forever.