It all began at a birthday party, one of those casual gatherings that usually don’t end up being anything life-changing. But for Macy and me, it was the night that set the course for everything. We were there for a mutual friend, not expecting much more than a fun time and maybe a laugh or two, but fate had other plans. Macy was quiet that night—shy, reserved, not quite sure how to navigate the loud energy of the party. I, on the other hand, was my usual talkative self, bursting with energy and curiosity about what the future might hold. Our mutual friend had been playing matchmaker, trying to get us to talk, but neither of us was biting at first. We were both content in our own little worlds, not knowing that the person we were meant to connect with was right there all along. It wasn’t until we found ourselves sitting side by side on a bench, feet dangling awkwardly in the air, that something shifted. Neither of us could touch the ground, which felt oddly symbolic—two people on the brink of something, yet still not quite grounded in each other’s world. It was then that our conversation began. Macy’s soft-spoken responses met my excited questions, and I found myself drawn to the quiet mystery she carried. She didn’t say much at first, but the way she listened, the way she made me feel heard—it was enough. In that moment, something clicked, something bigger than just a casual encounter. I could tell we had something special, and I was eager to pursue it. From that night on, we never went more than a few days without seeing each other, texting, calling—always connected. When we were apart, it didn’t feel right. We knew there was something more. In October, we made it official, but we both agreed that our “date” was September 2nd. It wasn’t just the day we met—it was a day that felt significant, one that still holds so much value for us. It marks the moment everything changed, even though neither of us could have predicted what was to come. Looking back, we laugh at how oblivious we were to the signs. We had met more than once before, never realizing how many times our paths had crossed. Each time felt like a missed opportunity, but in a way, that made sense. Our connection had been waiting to unfold at the right moment, and when it did, it was undeniable. Our first official date was a perfect reflection of who we are: simple, fun, and full of new experiences. We went to a Korean BBQ restaurant and spent the evening eating, laughing, and getting to know each other better. Then, we potted plants together, creating little pieces of our future that we’d nurture, just like our growing relationship. It was a small but meaningful gesture that solidified what we already knew: we were in this for the long haul. From then on, it’s been nothing but adventure, love, and joy. We may be different in some ways, but our shared love for home, for cuddling on the couch, and for each other, has kept us close. We've been inseparable, building a life together, knowing that when you meet someone more than once, it’s no accident. We know that we were destined to find each other all along.