Her story So, we knew each other from our ASTATE days, but oddly enough, we never had a single conversation back then. Fast forward a few years later to a homecoming event, and I’m with one of my friends. She mentions someone has been asking about me. I’m curious and ask who, and she says “Toby.” My initial reaction was a bit skeptical, but she reassures me he’s a nice guy. As I’m leaving the party, someone tugs at my arm, and it’s Toby! He asks for my number, but then doesn’t end up using it. Years later, my brother visits me in Texas, and guess who he brings along? Toby! Needless to say, he kept showing up at family gatherings and never approached me over the many years that he would stop by and visit with my brother. Respectfully, about three years ago, he mustered the courage to ask if I was dating. And since then, we’ve been together! It’s funny how things work out in unexpected ways. His Story We both attended Arkansas State University. I remember Latreseka from school, but we never had a conversation. I’m sure we exchanged a few words in passing; the reason I remember her so well is that she was easy on the eyes. Then, I saw her at a homecoming event one year. I was looking good, but Latreseka seemed to have forgotten that part! I asked her friend if she was single. I don't quite remember what her friend said, but I had made up my mind to ask. I had some extra encouragement that night—Crown Royal! I proceeded to get her digits, but I think I lost my phone or didn’t save the number. Honestly, I’m not really sure what happened, so that’s why I didn’t call. Shortly after, I moved to Texas. My little brother Ralo would visit, and we would catch up. One day, he invited me over to Latreseka's to hang out. I went over after shaving and taking a long, hot shower. However, when I arrived, I discovered she was off-limits. At that time, I had already been feeling out how Ralo felt about me pursuing his sister, and I didn’t think he was on board with it. At that point, I didn't believe there was a chance, but I was okay with that. I figured we were family, and that was cool with me. Fast forward to about three years ago. Ralo was in town for the Thanksgiving holiday, and I did my usual visit. On my way over, I thought I’d see if Latreseka still thought I was as fine as wine and if she was single. Ralo had given me the green light without saying a word. I waited until the end of the night and asked her if she was open to dating, respectfully. That was the first time she said yes. When I called her this time, she just wouldn't get off the phone! From those initial conversations, I knew I was going to try for that second yes.