On December 14th, 2018, we met for the very first time. Ericson had just finished finals from his first semester of graduate school and decided to visit our alma mater, University of Illinois, to hang out with our mutual friends. We pulled up next to Ericson changing his shoes outside his car in the snow, and in the backseat of our friend's car very dark car was Vianey. Ericson & I barely said more than a quick, awkward “hi.” The night started quietly. We all went to Illini Inn, and still—nothing. Just four people chilling, making small talk, and trying to warm up from the cold. But everything changed when we headed to Brother’s (rest in power—before it relocated a few years later). Ericson bought us drinks: He was on a Cranberry Vodka kick, and I was deep in her Rum and Coke era. Questionable choices, absolutely. But those questionable choices got us sitting next to each other for the first time. And that’s when it all clicked. Vianey started sharing her whole life story—fun, dramatic, chaotic, everything in between—and I just listened, occasionally helping her finish those Rum and Cokes. We kept talking through the walk back to her apartment, and once we got there, the conversation didn’t stop. Seven hours. Straight through to sunrise. It was an unexpected beginning, a little messy, a little magical, and absolutely perfect for us. And that night—one random December evening full of snow, bad drinks, and endless conversation—led us right here, to the life we’ve built and the future we’re so excited for.