11/4/17 was the day prior to Qiara's recently deceased father's birthday and in Qiara fashion she decided to put together an event at the Cigar Lounge to prep for her future feelings. Our friend Morenike was heading to Chicago the same weekend to celebrate a birthday (Styron). Qiara told her to swing by. Morenike, Styron + another young lady (who Styron actually fancied) came to the lounge. We all had a blast! (Qiara showed me a good time by serving up several uniques spirits from her travels and endless cigars. Her looks and lexicon had my attention) The next day we met for breakfast. Styron was oddly quiet. Qiara decided she was going to exit and enjoy a freshly prepared ice cream sandwich up the street. On the way out Styron handed his business card which immediately made Qiara laugh out loud. Who doesn't talk to you the whole breakfast yet still give a business card?! She read while he watched head on silently. Non-for-profit eh? Did you actually file the paperwork? She was slightly impressed by his yes. It meant he had some smarts. She left. While trying to think of ways to give back with assets her dad left behind, she thought of partnering with him. She emailed and they agreed to talk that evening. We found ourselves enjoying the conversation more than we should. We talked for hours. We couldn't mix business with pleasure right?? Qiara was to meet his board that upcoming weekend. We were excited! Styron was so focused when I came to the meeting that it felt a bit cold. So I put my business hat back on. I was genuinely amazed and impressed by the organization and the members. And of course.. him. We had a great weekend from there and have shared many cosmic thoughts, laughter, and SOOO much music since! One year later we joined our families in South Africa and she said yes!