I honestly can't believe it's 4th October 2026 and we're officially marking 9 whole years together. Looking back at everything we've been through from the very beginning, it feels surreal to see where we started and how far we've come. I'll never forget the night we first met—when I told you to meet me at my friend's house and you managed to get completely lost up that pitch-black road in the middle of the night! I was so worried about you that I actually ended up calling the police! 😂 But once you finally made it and we started talking, everything just clicked. Then, on 4th October 2017, I looked at you and said, "I think I know what we are now, boyfriend and girlfriend." That was the moment our real life together began. Only two months later, we found out I was pregnant, and my whole world started changing.
Opening up to you about my past—the abuse, trauma, and everything I'd suffered with my ex—was terrifying, but you gave me the courage to report him to the police. For five long years, through every court date and every painful detail, you never left my side. Even when my depression was at its absolute worst and I was struggling so deeply, you stood by me. You held me together when I felt completely broken, and I will never, ever forget that.
Our first flat was an absolute circus! Between that infamous Halloween party where my friend ended up having sex in our bedroom, to our place essentially becoming a halfway house for half the struggling teens in town—complete with drugs, alcohol, and non-stop loud music. But with only two months left before our son was due, we knew it was time to settle down. Moving to Langlees was the start of our family life, bringing our boy home and learning how to be parents together. Then moving closer to my dad so we could be there for him. We had to deal with that nightmare neighbour and her son causing riots and mayhem, but through all of it, we held down the fort.
And when my dad fell ill and was diagnosed with dementia, you were my absolute rock, my world, and the exact person I needed to get through it. Losing him in 2023 tore my heart out, but having you beside me through the grief kept me going. Moving back to Langlees to be close to family brought us full circle. Through every house, every trial, every heartbreak, and every high point, we've bounced back stronger every single time.
Now here we are, 9 years in. Next year on our 10th anniversary, I get to marry my best friend and the love of my life. I can't wait for our wedding, planning for another baby, going on holiday, and building the rest of our future together. Thank you for saving me, for loving me through my darkest days, and for being the most incredible partner and dad. You are my whole heart.