In the halls of STI College Dumaguete, during their Senior High School years, fate quietly weaved the early strands of a story neither of them expected. He was a close friend of her cousin—nothing more at the time. Their connection began as passing moments, brief smiles, and small conversations during quick meetings whenever he would tag along with her cousin. Different programs, different schedules—life kept them on separate paths, allowing only stolen moments of laughter and friendship.

And yet, even then, something unspoken lingered between them. A feeling they both felt but silently set aside. They chose to remain just colleagues, friends within the circle of school days and cousin meetups.

As time moved on, so did they. In college at Negros Oriental State University, he pursued a degree in Computer Science, and she studied Tourism Management. During their first semester, life gave them another small window. He taught her how to strum a guitar, and she, in return, baked cupcakes and brought them to him. A simple act. A sweet exchange. But like many college friendships, it too faded as priorities shifted and schedules no longer aligned.

They drifted.

He graduated and became an instructor at the university. She finished her studies and left for Davao Mission, answering a higher calling, serving others and growing through her own journey.

Years later, life moved again.

One afternoon, she decided to reconnect with two of her closest girlfriends. A casual meet-up was planned. During their conversation, one of the girls—perhaps guided by a hunch or a hope—suggested messaging him, asking if he could join them.

It had been years.

Her hands trembled slightly as she typed the message, telling him she was back from her mission and asking if he was free to meet.

He replied almost instantly.

From that moment, the years that stretched between them melted away. One meet-up turned into another. Casual catch-ups became long conversations. Late-night talks, shared dreams, and quiet dinners brought them closer—not just to each other, but to the feelings they once buried deep in the past.

This time, they didn't ignore it.

Now, they are getting married, ready to write the next beautiful chapter of their love story together.

"Sometimes the greatest love stories are the ones that take time to unfold."