I met Marshall in October of 2014 at CA Technologies. We both had recently started working at the company, and by luck we had our desks right next to each other. Initially, we became good friends and would chat during the day and sometimes stay later to catch up and get to know each other. It was not until December 2014, we went as a group to the Dallas Mavericks vs. Golden State Warriors game, that we both began to develop feelings for each other.
On January 15th, Marshall took me on our first date at Del Frisco's Steakhouse in downtown Dallas. I couldn't have been more nervous! He sensed that, and tried everything to make me feel comfortable. We talked about our past college experiences, funny stories, and he spent the evening trying to ask me every question in the world to try and get to know me better.
Soon after we became inseparable! It was such an exhilarating feeling falling for Marshall. He was so full of energy, love, care and commitment. Our bond created something so unique and I was positive that our relationship cultivated deep within our hearts.
In October 2015, Marshall was promoted and had to move to Columbus, Ohio. As nerve racking as it was, we courageously fought to stay close and build our relationship besides the distance. In this time, we grew to love each other in ways we never knew possible.
I have never been in an interracial relationship before, and Marshall eased my worries by showing so much gratitude and appreciation for my culture. He genuinely took interest, embraced it, and accepted my roots and welcomed them as a part of his life. I was in awe in how easily it was for him to blend with my family, friends, and culture that it became evident that it was impossible for me to go through life without him. I quickly learned, happiness came from within, and Marshall and I were meant to be. I am forever thankful to Marshall for never giving up on us and working so hard to be the amazing man that he is today.
Marshall and I planned a trip to Barcelona and Ibiza in May 2018. On our second day in the beautiful city of Barcelona, we decided to check out "Bunkers Del Carmel" a beautiful site that over looks the entire city. We took the hour long car ride up to the hill, and Marsh and I chatted the entire way, like we always do.
We finally get to the top of the hill, and I see tourists in athletic gear, and I am confused as Marsh and I were more dressed up (we had lunch reservations at a restaurant Picasso frequently visited), but I initially didn't think much of it. We slowly walked up to the top of the hill where there were a few people soaking in the view. As we reached the top, I looked out over the horizon and felt blessed to be there. As I'm doing so, I look over and Marsh turns to me and pulls out a dark blue box - and I KNEW in that moment it was happening! He opens the box (UPSIDE DOWN!) and he get's down on one knee, and I (of course) begin to cry. I excitedly say YES!!!
Marsh had hired a photographer to capture the moment and I felt so incredibly loved. We took photo's at the proposal site and at the Barcelona Cathedral. At night, we had a separate photoshoot at the Magic Fountains and a dinner reservations at Pepito - a romantic restaurant in downtown.
My heart was so full of love as our families and friends showered us with support and excitement. Marsh made me feel like a princess on May 3rd, 2018. I will never forget the feeling in my heart knowing I was going to spend the rest of my life with my best friend!