Alexandra has asked that I take the reins on explaining our story since I’m “the funny one.” I hope you’re prepared to be wowed by my charming wit and palpable charisma. Heavy lies the crown of the banter king.

Alexandra and I first met in Spring of 2021 at OrangeTheory Fitness a week after she moved to Austin. Ace possesses the health and fitness discipline of a monk, and so I began to notice her constant presence at the gym. Over time, passing comments in class and in the lobby turned into extensive conversations over coffee and lunch meetups with friends. Alexandra’s kind heart and selfless aura were apparent to everyone, and it was a joy to be around her. I was experiencing severe personal challenges at that time in my life, and Alexandra’s friendship and support was a light during a period of darkness. In the months that followed, I began to realize that I wasn’t content just being friends. Ace is one of a kind, and I knew I was falling for her. There was only one problem – I was entrenched in the hellish landscape that every man fears, the “Friendzone.”

I began to signal my romantic interest in Ace, and we increasingly spent more time together. Weekend hikes, solo meetups for coffee, and family time with Alexandra’s parents became the norm, though I had yet to fully claw my way out of the platonic plateau. My efforts were subtle at first, but Ace proved to be a tough nut to crack. As the number of her suitors grew, I ultimately threw caution to the wind. During one of our hikes, I told Alexandra she was “breathtakingly beautiful,” and her sweet smile in response nearly burst my heart. I knew that Alexandra was my soul mate, and the moment she reciprocated my feelings was the happiest of my life. Finally, I had elevated my status from “best friend” to “boyfriend” (while remaining best friends).

Our time together has seen us through the highs and lows of life – deaths in the family, promotions at work, removing toxic influences, and building a home together. Each “rose” and “thorn” has deepened our bond, and words can’t express how amazing life has been as Alexandra’s partner. She brings joy into each day and every activity we do together: nature excursions, adventure trips, pickleball tournaments, gym classes, pizza and movie nights at home – everything has added meaning with Alexandra at my side. During one of our annual trips to Charleston, Alexandra and I had a magical day walking through the cobblestone streets, admiring the antebellum architecture amidst the vibrant colors and flowers of the city, and breathing in the sea breeze pouring through the marshland. Over dinner, we had a heartfelt conversation where we expressed our shared desire to be together forever. When I later proposed to Ace at the lookout point of our favorite hiking spot back in Austin, I was overjoyed that I would be spending the rest of my days with the most thoughtful, optimistic, passionate, and generous person I’ve ever met.

My relationship with Alexandra has been the most enriching experience of my life. It has demonstrated that a true, selfless, and timeless love can exist. It has revealed what it means to value and cherish someone more than myself. And it has shown me how to be at peace and content among blessings and tribulations alike. Alexandra is my soul mate, and I love her with all my heart. The sight of her each morning makes my heart race, and she truly is the best person I’ve ever known. I can’t wait to marry her, build our family together, and grow old together.

–Taylor