We met the modern way — online — both of us genuinely looking for something real. When Rafik asked me out, I told him he’d have to wait until Friday. But waiting four whole days? Impossible. So instead, we started FaceTiming every night, talking for hours and getting to know each other before we even met in person.

Our first date was at Lido Bayside, and the moment we sat down, it all just clicked. Everything felt easy, natural, and exactly how it was meant to be. Rafik says he knew that night I was the one — and honestly, I did too.

The proposal was straight out of a movie. We were at Queen Miami Beach — the same spot where we had drinks after our first date — celebrating Rafik’s birthday. I had a little feeling it might happen, and I even begged him not to propose on his birthday (so the night could be all about him!).

But when our favorite song started playing, he pulled me onto the stage for a dance… and then got down on one knee. I said yes (of course!), and Rafik swears it was the best birthday gift he’s ever received.