Our unique story began in late August 1984 at Jackson State University. Terence, a shy basketball player and junior transfer from DC, met Rosalyn, an outgoing student with roots in Virginia Beach. Introduced by Terence’s roommate Anthony, their first meeting sparked interest, but Rosalyn, recently out of a relationship, was hesitant to start another. Though Terence hoped for more, they settled into a platonic friendship. That first semester, their friendship blossomed quietly. Terence’s teammates teased him about his feelings, but he kept them private. Rosalyn pledged AKA sorority, and once needed a white t-shirt, which Terence quickly provided—hoping it might deepen their bond. Yet, nothing romantic developed then. The semester passed with holidays and classes, and their connection remained friendly. In the second semester, they saw each other less but stayed in touch. Rosalyn’s sorority sisters noticed Terence’s interest and teased her. Terence was invited to model in a Mr. Esquire fashion show, a nerve-wracking event he hoped Rosalyn would attend. She did, but mysteriously avoided him during the show, leaving Terence disappointed. That spring break, Rosalyn asked Terence to drive her to Virginia Beach. The 17-18 hour trip took an unexpected turn when Rosalyn’s car overheated in Birmingham, Alabama. Terence calmed her and arranged to drop the car at a nearby Renault dealer—coincidentally near his teammate’s home. They stayed overnight with friends, then rented a car and completed the journey, despite Terence receiving a speeding ticket. At the school year's end, Rosalyn again invited Terence to ride with her back to Virginia Beach, stopping in Asheville, NC, to visit his mother for Mother’s Day. There, his relatives met Rosalyn and sensed she might be “the one.” Rosalyn’s mother also noticed Terence’s affection for her daughter. After college graduation, Rosalyn worked for State Farm in Illinois, and Terence for the Department of Treasury in DC. They remained close friends, visiting each other’s families, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, including the tragic death of Terence’s friend Len Bias. Their friendship, filled with laughter, music, and shared memories, stayed strong and platonic. Through their separate marriages and raising children, they continued to support one another. Both former athletes, their children inherited their athleticism. Their shared values extended to church and family life, deepening their bond. Eventually, life’s changes freed them both, and Terence expressed his desire for more than friendship. Rosalyn hesitated, fearing loss of their unique connection. But after time and continued conversations, she agreed to explore a relationship. Visits to the DMV area allowed their love to grow. Rosalyn reminded Terence, “a delay is not a denial.” When Terence proposed in Dallas, Rosalyn said yes without hesitation. He realized she had “saved the last dance” for him. Now, with family and friends as witnesses, we proudly join in holy matrimony. We can’t make up for lost time but look forward to building a life together filled with love and cherished memories.