peace, love & marriage

Francine and Chris met in Zhengzhou, China (郑州中国) at a local charity event, organised by local expats in the city. The event features a host of musical performances and art pieces and was a long-standing, annual event in the city. After both Francine and Chris finished their first year of teaching in 郑州, they both ended up at this end-of-year event. Francine was with two of her co-workers at the time and Chris noticed them by the exit doors. On his way out, Chris approached the trio and began speaking with them. Chris correctly guessed that they were from the Philippines and was sure to record Francine's contact information before he left. Strangers, contact, friends, lovers - the process was underway. ~ The Proposal ~ A warm summer evening in Zhengzhou, Francine and Chris are buying some gifts for their families back home. Exhausted from the noise and chaos, they agree to hunker down at a low-standing table, as they recuperate from their busy evening. Two people navigating their way through the yellow sea – they are in their element. As the Chinese man gives them their barbecued vegetables, Chris decides it’s better to let Francine’s hunger be satisfied before bringing up any serious topics. Is there an ideal way to do this? Chris thought sceptically to himself as he nervously thought about what to say…. Weddings, rings, tradition – all insignificant in the mind of Chris. Tonight is special though. Francine is special. Chris realized, as he palmed the ring box in his hand, that it would be one of many sacrifices he would have to make in the future. Looking at Francine, he knew in his heart that he would do anything he could to make her happy. With one last squeeze of the box, Chris finally managed to get out the words, “Do you know what you’ll say…?”