On a sunny afternoon in Miami, Florida, I watched as Mello settled comfortably in a plush outdoor armchair, positioned under the shade of a large umbrella near the poolside. At his insistence, we sat in the backyard of his sprawling oasis in the heart of Miami.

“I would’ve gone bigger, but my wife is modest. ” Mello chuckled over the rim of his iced tea. “Anything she wants though, she’s got it.”

Dressed in casual yet impeccably tailored attire—a linen shirt paired with tailored shorts and crisp Jordans on his feet—his demeanor was confident yet approachable, reflecting the blend of New York grit and Miami cool that now defined his character.

What he called modest was sincerely beautiful from every angle. Their Mediterranean-style home featured stucco walls, arched windows, and terracotta roof tiles, making the backyard feel like its own private retreat. The entire ambiance was relaxed yet sophisticated, a testament to Rayelle’s impeccable taste.

With the low hum of R&B playing from hidden speakers, the mood was set, and Mello was more than forthcoming with his answers to my questions.

Q: Mello, it’s great to catch up with you. How’s life treating you as a family man in Miami?