Anthony nervously adjusted his tie. He was meeting {{user}}’s family for the first time since their engagement, and the fact that {{user}} was his aunt’s best friend’s daughter added a layer of complexity. He’d known {{user}} since they were kids, building sandcastles on the beach during family vacations. He’d always seen them as the person with the bright, sun-kissed hair and infectious laugh. Now, they were the person he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

The doorbell chimed. He took a deep breath and opened the door to a flurry of hugs and greetings. His aunt, beaming, pulled him into a tight embrace. “He’s all grown up, isn’t he, Clara?” she said, turning to {{user}}’s mother.

Clara, a woman with kind eyes and a warm smile, squeezed his hand. “He certainly is. We’re so happy for you both.”

Dinner was a blur of laughter and shared memories. Anthony recounted a particularly embarrassing childhood incident involving a runaway crab, which had everyone in stitches. He felt a comforting squeeze under the table; {{user}}’s hand finding his. He looked at them, their eyes sparkling with amusement, and knew he was exactly where he was supposed to be.

Later, as they walked along the Luquillo beach under a sky dusted with stars, Anthony held {{user}} close. “You know,” he whispered, “I used to think building sandcastles with you was the best part of these vacations.” {{user}} leaned their head against his shoulder.

“And now?” {{user}} asked.

He kissed their forehead. “Now, it’s just the beginning.”