Connect How did your love story begin?

We first met on the train going into work and traded info for our date the next day! We went to a cafe, found that our life stories were really similar, and felt at peace together (which was a first for both of us). We sat in a park, his back leaning against a tree and mine against his chest. We were talking and Zeke suddenly kissed me and I got surreal butterflies. Five days later we said I love you and became partners. We've been living together for a year and everyday feels like a dream :)

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

Zeke is a bartender and chef, so we decided to make a welcome meal for my grandma who flew in from the Dominican Republic to visit. We made nostalgic foods (arepitas, pernil, mangu, etc.) and he took extra note of my grandma's dietary restrictions. As partners, embracing culture shows true effort to prove how permanent we are in our lives. We cleaned up as he put on a new playlist, which led to spontaneously singing together! Then and thereafter, our hearts, minds, and souls were one.

What would you do with $20,000?

We would invest in savings and help my mom retire early so we can take care of her. Right now, my mom works 73 hours a week while still dedicating herself to church because it alleviates her stress. Due to the current economy, she has had to work extremely hard to continue supporting my grandparents and herself. My dream is to completely take care of her and prove that it was worth becoming an immigrant at 13 for the life I'm able to give her.