We met at Loma Linda Medical Center — Eric had just started his oncology fellowship, and Kriste was working on the oncology ward. In Eric’s version of the story, Kriste made the first move. In Kriste’s version, she was just being friendly (as always). The first time she saw him, he looked stressed and overwhelmed. Wanting to lift his spirits, she cracked a few jokes to make him laugh. Like an egg, he cracked up — and found himself scrambling for more. Then came the pandemic. Kriste moved across the country for work, and their connection faded into the chaos. They stopped keeping in touch, but Eric never forgot her. Three months later, fate had other plans. Kriste got injured and moved back to Loma Linda. On her very first day back, she attended a baby shower — and guess who was there? Eric, standing by a table of homemade shaved ice. As they waited in line, they started talking again, reconnecting over the sugary goodness. Something about that moment felt different — like the spark that had once flickered now had room to grow. In the weeks that followed, they kept finding excuses to hang out — usually through their mutual friends (and unofficial matchmakers). Then one night, Eric invited Kriste to a concert with friends. As the lights lit up the sky, he hugged her and thought to himself, *“This is it. She’s the one.”* Kriste, meanwhile, told their friend they were “just friends” — even though her heart was saying otherwise. Shortly after, Kriste received notice that she’d have to move again — seven hours away. She had feelings for Eric but kept them quiet. Then, on the very day she was set to leave, her contract got canceled. Just like that, she stayed in town — and they kept growing closer. Two months later, the moment came. One of them laid it all out: *“Kiss me now or kiss me later.”* Luckily, they both chose *forever*. They say if two people are meant to be, no distance, detour, or delay can keep them apart. The red string of fate held on — gently tugging them back to where they belonged: together.