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It makes sense that Jarred and my story began among performance nude artists. It was the year 2009, the writer had just wrapped up a dance performance at Melbourne cultural event and I was unwinding in the backstage lounge when acrobats started performing spectacular naked tricks. Over the sound of props, their attention spotted Jarred in the audience. He looked absolutely handsome.

Without delay, a mutual friend introduced the pair. Jarred shared his studies in acrobatics; the narrator identified as a modern dancer, so we bonded over a appreciation of movement. His appearance captivated them but his commitment for his craft was compelling. Existence is a complex realm, but it was evident they both believed in infusing fun into existence through their careers.

Following their initial contact on the platform, the writer would frequently remain awake at late hours to check if Jarred was online and coordinate my messages to match.

As the year closed of that year we were meeting up in Melbourne regularly, gradually learning about their partner, geeking out over their favorite series and horror films. They genuinely valued and appreciated their companion, so we didn’t rush into things.

During the New Year celebration, we headed to a social event in a suburb. It was bursting with noise and bodies. The pair silently retreated onto the balcony to escape the crowd. They understood that their world seemed significantly improved from knowing Jarred.

When the countdown shouts reached a crescendo, a feeling natural guided the couple closer. The countdown reached the last moments. On one, they turned to each other and kissed. In that kiss we both realized the identical realization: it signified not only the dawn of a upcoming year, but a greater change.

Subsequently we were formally a couple. Jarred was working for circus company Circa, and I was on the road with personal performances as a dancer and drag artist, so they understood they would have to spend months long distance. The separation can take a toll and lead to the feeling as though time stands still – I wouldn’t have tolerated for just anyone.

The commitment to dedicate to each other despite the separation meant they had the chance to take up numerous incredible (occasionally hectic) job prospects.

Jarred and I occasionally work jointly, Jarred creates attire for the writer's performances and we influence their partner a lot in their work. I’ve helped their partner embrace the shinier, more drag-oriented side of life and Jarred has made me interested in acrobatics.

In 2019, after a decade of mostly touring and being separated, we finally ended up on the identical landmass, though in a difficult scenario. Their partner suffered a ruptured bicep on travel in Austria and traveled back to Australia for medical treatment. They remained anxiously throughout the procedure; as he finally awoke he looked the writer in the eye sleepily and produced a slurping gesture – his way of communicating he wanted a hydrating drink from a tube. Always the clown!

He remained unable to work for a twelve months. During that time we moved in as a pair, and because it overlapped with Covid lockdowns, they transitioned their performances to digital platforms.

While domestic life was bliss, the accident threw off the writer's engagement plans. Rather than postcard-perfect the location, the decision was Brunswick Heads. While they were seated side by side on the sandy area, the engagement ring was already in my hand when they recognized I hadn’t thought about what I was going to say. They blurted out these words: “Will you give me a kiss? Could you provide me a touch? Lastly, will you wed my posterior?” Jarred laughed and agreed.

Subsequently Jarred proposed to them too. I was confused but quickly thrilled because of course when you have a agreement, both people often agree. Because of health restrictions they decided against a nuptials and in its place used the savings for a property. “Fiance” is more fun to say than “husband” anyway.

The writer adores the patience and balanced Jarred is. He offsets me perfectly when my impulsivity takes over. But above all else, he always makes me laugh.