It all began on a cruise in the summer of 2022, where the ocean sparkled with the same electricity that danced between Alexis and Brian the moment their eyes met. (According to Brian) it was love at first sight—undeniable, unexpected, but utterly impossible. Alexis lived in the vibrant heart of Florida, while Brian called the golden coast of California home. They knew from the start that geography wasn’t on their side.

But the heart doesn’t always listen to reason.

In the days that followed, they talked, laughed, and shared stories under the stars. When the cruise ended, neither of them wanted to say goodbye. So they didn’t. What began as an instant connection turned into a cherished friendship that stretched across time zones. Over the next two years, their lives became intertwined through endless texts and late-night phone calls that often ended in sleepy smiles and reluctant goodnights.

Still, they danced around the idea of love, both afraid of what long-distance might cost them.

Until one day, Brian decided he couldn’t wonder "what if" any longer. He booked a flight to Florida, suitcase in hand and heart on his sleeve, ready to find out if that spark they found at sea still burned as brightly on land.

It did.

From that moment on, they were inseparable—even when they were apart. They embraced the challenge of long-distance love, visiting each other at least once a month, stealing every moment they could from their busy lives. Airports became their second homes; layovers turned into love letters.

After a year of back-and-forth flights and video calls, Alexis made a leap of faith. She packed up her life in Florida and moved across the country to California, where she and Brian began a new chapter together under the same roof.

Now, surrounded by sunshine, shared adventures, and the quiet comfort of finally being in the same place, they’re engaged and planning the rest of their lives together— with their charming cat Winston.