Elio and I were so different, but it was in all the best ways. We knew each other well, our strengths and our weaknesses, and even though we looked so alike, I loved to see the ways we were different. He was so personable, where I knew I wasn't always, and even the way he greeted me felt special.

He was also a much better host.

"Oh, just water is fine," I promised, following him into the kitchen. "I brought Mexican. Tacos and burritos. I wasn't sure what you might want."