In 2018, Vicky and Ferg were, as fate dictated, both deployed to Romania, at the less-than-glamourous Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base by the Black Sea. Their respective employers, the United States Marine Corps and Royal Air Force, were each contributing to NATO's mission of strengthening Eastern Europe to deter would-be adversaries. Yes, this love story is set against a back-drop of the nouveau Cold War. They'll make a film of it one day. As you'll know, all military partnerships are fuelled by strong spirits (that's liquor, for the American reader). Regrettably, the garrison at Mihail Kogalniceanu had nothing stronger than American beer (weak). Nevertheless, our bold companions Derrick and Andy, the US and UK physicians, with exclusive control of access to the medical clinic, decided to overcome this obvious challenge, by hosting after-hours parties in their recreation room. Vicky and Ferg, both popular, beautiful and fun to hang out with, were invited to a shindig at the clinic by their respective compatriots. During a game of Cards Against Humanity, Ferg gave Vicky the "Ferg-Eyes" and tried to impress her with his best Matthew McConaughey impression. After all, who wouldn't fall for that?? Thenceforth, Vicky and Ferg would find each other at more social settings, enjoying local Romanian cuisine (not very appealing), but more importantly, one another's company (very appealing). When not managing NATO's public affairs or ensuring efficient provision of weapons to aircraft, Vicky and Ferg could be found in the "chow hall", the gym, or Constanta beachfront, putting the world to rights and sinking a few Aperol Spritz's. Vicky and Fergus' future as a lifelong couple was sealed on the shores of the Black Sea. Europe is still (for now), at peace. Thank you NATO...and here's to the Special Relationship.