I still get goosebumps thinking about how perfectly everything fell into place to bring Aubry and me together. The timing, the location, the group of people, and that single, incredible, etched-in-my-brain moment when our eyes met—it all feels like something out of a dream, something that could have so easily not happened. Neither of us were supposed to be in Oak Lawn that Saturday night in January 2022. Aubry and her friends had gone back and forth about even going out, deciding only last minute. As for me, I’d been to a few spots that night, only to finally end up at Sue Ellen’s with some friends—including our soon-to-be wedding officiant.

When I saw Aubry from across the bar, it was like being in middle school again, bursting with that giddy, heart-racing feeling of a giant crush. Just seeing her, before even saying a word, had me blushing from a distance. Every part of me, from my fingertips to my toes, felt pulled toward this beautiful woman. There was something undeniable, a spark that felt like fate. And though I knew of her through mutual friends, I’d never actually met her, much less seen her in person— I was swooning. (Spoiler: I haven’t stopped swooning.)

I remember my hands shaking a little as I gathered up the courage to approach her. I felt it in my bones—this was my only chance. Forgetting any pick-up lines I might’ve planned, I just blurted out how we knew each other, and the moment she looked back at me, I knew instantly: this woman was meant to be in my life. We spent the night playing pool, chatting about life, and became fast friends with Shelby. And when we parted, we shared a hug that lingered, with a look I won’t forget.

Over the next few months, we carefully sorted through our feelings, knowing in our hearts we were building something real, something deep. Looking back, it’s clear: our story began that night, in the most perfect and unexpected way.

I easily remember that fateful day on the 22nd of March 2022, when we decided to meet at Chili's – what I would call, our first real date. It was the perfect location, approximate equal distance between Plano and Deep Ellum; but I’m sure Abby would say she drove a little further 😉. I can't recall the exact time, but I'm guessing it was somewhere between 1700 and 1900 hours, or for those non-military types, between 5:00 and 7:00pm. Of course, Abby probably remembers the precise moment down to the very second. As I pulled into the parking lot, I saw Abby sitting in her car. As I parked next to her, I took a moment to gather myself and tried not to seem overly nervous. I remember her wearing black Adidas shoes, black sweatpants, a navy Adidas sweatshirt, and I’m pretty sure her hair was pulled back into a ponytail. We walked into Chili's together and sat on the left side of the bar, sharing some food, thoughts, laughs, and a couple of adult beverages. I remember feeling so at ease with her, as if we had known each other for years.

As we were leaving, I knew that neither of us were ready to say goodnight and end the evening. So, we got into my truck (as if we were in high school), listened to some music, and continued to talk about life. I don't know how long we were sitting there together, but this is when we truly connected and let our guards down. We shared some personal details, allowing ourselves to become vulnerable, which is not an easy thing to do when you really like someone. And then, as if by fate, the song "Lover" came on (which later became our ditty). I had every intention of not making any moves that night, but as we continued to talk, I couldn't help but think how short life was and I didn’t want to miss out or regret anything with Abby. And so, as I’m having several internal thoughts about what I want to do and say next, while also starting to sweat because I’m sitting next to a beautiful woman, I turned to Abby, briefly looked away, and said “you know what” before quickly turning back, placing my hands around her face and kissing her for the very first time.

Ever since that defining night, we have been inseparable.

I feel so grateful to have you in my life, Abby. You have brought so much joy and happiness into my world, and I can't imagine a day without you. I love you more than words can express, and I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with you.

-Written in October 2024 from Aubry's Army Base in Kuwait