Irene never imagined that a casual introduction through mutual friends could lead to something so life-changing. It started with a simple video call set up by Emily and Jake. “You two would get along,” Emily had said with a knowing smile. And somehow, she was right. For months, Irene and Josh talked—first through texts, then late-night calls that stretched into the early morning for one of them. Despite the time difference between Jakarta and Lemoore, their conversations never felt forced. They shared their love for food (Irene swore by Indonesian street snacks, while Josh was passionate about California burritos), their favorite songs, and even their biggest fears. But chatting through a screen wasn’t enough. One evening, as they were on a call, Josh said, “I want to see you in person.” Irene chuckled. “Me too. But, you know… 8,000 miles.” “What if I take care of that?” he said casually. She thought he was joking—until she received an email confirmation for a flight from Jakarta to San Francisco. Now, standing in the bustling airport, Irene’s heart raced. This was it. She scanned the crowd, then saw him—a little taller than she expected, wearing a navy jacket and that familiar, slightly nervous smile. “Irene?” “Josh.” For a second, they just stood there, both laughing at the surreal moment. Then Josh chuckled, “So… do we shake hands or—” Irene rolled her eyes and hugged him before he could finish. And just like that, a love that had started across the world finally became real, standing under the San Francisco sky.