We met at Semenaya, though we'll forever debate exactly when. Pablo noticed me first, surrounded by the rhythm of Afro-Latin dance. We signed up for a salsa boot camp, but it only took a couple of classes before we were too busy falling for each other to finish. Neither of us expected to leave with a fiancé.

But the real beginning was honesty. During our first conversation, Pablo shared parts of his story that many people would have waited much longer to reveal. Rather than creating distance, that openness laid the foundation for a relationship built on trust, acceptance, and authenticity. It set the tone for everything that followed: neither of us has ever had to wear a mask, pretend to be someone else, or hold back the parts that make us who we are. I'm his person, but he's my favorite person.

Our story truly took shape at the Que Padre Latin Dance Festival—not simply because the attraction grew, but because we chose each other. Since then, we've spent three years building a life together: renovating our home, welcoming new grandchildren, learning each other's traditions, and perfecting everything from beef patties to enfrijoladas. Following him around with Google Translate open is a thing of the past. These days, we're more likely to be caught laughing hysterically over brunch after I blurt out a telenovela-inspired faux pas—much to the bewilderment of nearby diners, who glance over and appear genuinely concerned that one of us may need rescuing.

We still dance occasionally, but we've realized our favorite place is home—curled up together, sharing reels while sitting side by side, flipping through family photo albums, or laughing about the fact that my idea of a perfect date night is getting dolled up to go to a fancy restaurant, while he lovingly looks over and smiles knowing we'll probably be back on the couch within the hour.

Today, we're building a home full of Afro-Mexican pride—a place where our cultures blend, and history is something we’re proud of. Whether we stay in San Antonio or find ourselves raising a family in Mexico, our future brings laughter, joy, and a life worth remembering.