Some love stories begin with a spark. Ours began with sushi. We first crossed paths on a May evening in 2019 at a crowded group dinner in San Jose. We barely spoke—just two faces in a sea of strangers, unaware that our paths would cross again. In the summer of 2022, life quietly brought us back together. Emi (Emily) was visiting San Diego and looking for someone to share sushi with, since her usual companion was unfortunately allergic. One message turned into another, and in September 2022, Ricky invited her to a Final Fantasy orchestra concert. It was a last-minute invitation, and Emi—juggling a master’s degree and a new job—might have said no. But with a little liquid courage and a soft instinct, she said yes. That night marked the beginning of something unexpected. Ricky made the first move by extending the invitation, but Emi kept the conversation going and pursued what she felt. On October 29, 2022, Ricky asked the question that made it official: “Will you be my girlfriend?” Just weeks later, in November 2022, Ricky joined Emi on a friend’s trip to Las Vegas (without warning the group that she was suddenly no longer single). In March 2023, they took their first international trip together to Japan, setting the tone for a relationship filled with travel, curiosity, and shared adventure. Along the way, they found joy in simple routines and everyday moments. Ricky began as Emi’s reliable bag handler on outings and soon upgraded to her personal photographer, capturing both milestones and quiet smiles. His daily puns (whether Emi wants them or not) became part of the rhythm of their days. Ricky also grew into the kitchen, learning to cook with heart and keeping Emi very well-fed. Emi, in turn, became his constant cheerleader—bringing calm, encouragement, and warmth into his life. In December 2023, they moved in together and began building a home shaped by laughter, care, and shared routines. Their love for long walks through arboretums, cozy afternoons over tea, and time spent together only deepened. On March 6, 2025, what was meant to be a casual photoshoot at Descanso Gardens turned into a proposal, surrounded by blooming flowers and close friends. Emi said yes without hesitation. Later that year, they took another meaningful step forward and purchased a condo together, dreaming up Ricky’s future kitchen, Emi’s craft room, and a life filled with love, laughter, and plenty of puns. Their story isn’t loud—but it’s steady, joyful, and entirely theirs. And it’s only just beginning.