Kole's view: It was a Saturday afternoon, August 1st, 2020, and I was already anticipating an unforgettable evening. My profound love for great food often drives my choices, and when my girlfriend called, inviting me to a 40th birthday soiree, I didn’t hesitate for a moment. I knew there would be something delicious waiting for me, and sure enough, when I walked into the event, I was immediately overwhelmed by the spread of culinary creations before me. The aroma, the colors, the textures—it was a feast for the senses. Without a second thought, I dug in. From appetizers to desserts, I indulged in almost everything offered. Every bite was more satisfying than the last. But it wasn’t until I made my way back to the grill for a perfectly cooked steak that the magic truly happened. I eagerly anticipated that last bite of medium, well-seasoned New York strip, only to find it gone. My heart sank, and I couldn’t help but shed a tear in disappointment. And that’s when I met him—Akele. From behind the grill, Akele, the chef who had been orchestrating the evening’s culinary wonders, appeared with a warm smile and a plate in his hands. As if the universe had heard my silent wish, he had crafted the perfect steak just for me. We locked eyes, and in that moment, it felt as though time had slowed. He handed me the plate, our fingers brushing lightly, and I swear I could feel the connection right there. But the night didn’t end with the steak. As the evening unfolded, I found myself drawn to Akele. We spent hours outside, under the open sky, the stars illuminating our path. In the most unexpected of places—what could only be described as a 3-foot kiddie pool—we stood together, talking, laughing, and dancing to the music that filled the air. The moment was electric, a perfect balance of lightheartedness and connection. Time had no place in that magical night. It was just the two of us, lost in conversation and the rhythm of our growing bond. From that first gaze to the last dance under the stars, something changed between us. That 40th birthday soiree wasn’t just a celebration of life—it marked the beginning of something beautiful, something deliciously perfect. And though I’ll always remember the steak, I’ll cherish even more the moment I met Akele—the chef who cooked up not only the perfect meal, but also a love story that would last a lifetime. Keles' View It was a Saturday afternoon, and we were all gathered to celebrate my oldest brother’s birthday. The sun was blazing in the high 90s, and I had been given the task of grilling. As I worked, preparing the food and serving it, I couldn't help but notice this tall, stunning woman. There was something about her that caught my attention, a warmth that drew me in. When she came back for seconds, she asked for more steak, but there was none left. She looked disappointed, and I couldn’t bear to see that, so I went out of my way to find more. When I brought it to her, her gratitude was so genuine, and at that moment, something shifted in me. I didn’t think much of it at first, but then my niece whispered that she had been giving me the “gooley eyes,” and that was all I needed to hear. I gathered the courage and shot my shot. Before I knew it, we were dancing in a kiddie pool until 2 a.m., laughing and talking like we’d known each other for years. The chemistry between us was undeniable, electric, like we were made for each other. I couldn’t stop thinking about her. I had to see her again, so we met up, and it’s been nothing short of magical ever since. I remember praying to God, asking Him to send me a wife, someone who would bring joy and meaning into my life. And He did—He went above and beyond, sending me someone who feels like a dream come true. Every day, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have her by my side.