Invisible string; lando Norris

Cenntennial park

I've spent my entire life living in New York, and I always had this feeling that I would meet someone special at Centennial Park.

There was something magical about the place, its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere seemed like the perfect backdrop for a meaningful story to unfold.

Growing up, my parents pushed me to focus on my studies, and because of that, I applied to college when I was just 16. They had big dreams for me, and I ended up at Columbia University, right here in New York City, a school known for its challenging academics. Even though I was one of the youngest in my class, I was determined to meet the challenge. During all of this, I couldn't help but look up to my older brother, Jacob.

He was chasing his dream of becoming an actor, and I was so proud of him. Watching him put in the work to get where he is, filled me with joy. Over time, his name started to get recognized, and to protect his privacy as he gained attention, he decided to change his last name. It was a decision made for safety, and it showed just how much he had grown in his career. Jacob elordi.

How did he come up with that? Who knows, theater kids...

As I worked through my college years, I began to understand just how much my parents sacrificed to give me the opportunities I had. They worked hard to support me, and their high expectations pushed me to always strive for the best.

By the time I turned 18, I was settled into the fast paced life of New York City. I was balancing my classes at Columbia with the dreams I was starting to build for myself. Every day, I thought about the foundation my parents gave me and how it had shaped my journey so far.

When I hit my third year of college, life seemed to get even more exciting. My best friend Charles, who had always been passionate about Formula 1, had just signed a contract with Alfa Romeo.

He couldn't stop talking about it, whether we were messaging each other or hanging out in person, his enthusiasm was contagious.

At the same time, I had been dating my boyfriend, who was also studying at Columbia. He's only 19 and a junior. We had started dating during my first year, and now, three years later, we were still together, growing both personally and as a couple.

while I was sitting in Centennial Park, writing in my journal, I was interrupted by a voice I knew well. It was Louis, a familiar face who often saw me deep in thought, pen in hand.

"Writing again, when will you stop, woman?" he teased. We exchanged a warm smile, and he leaned in to give me a soft kiss on the cheek as a greeting. It was one of those quiet moments that felt right, sitting together on the park bench, sharing a peaceful silence.

Then, Louis casually mentioned that my phone was ringing. I reached for it, seeing it was my mom calling.

"Hi, mami! Que paso?" I greeted her. She was planning a surprise visit to see Charles.

     "Sounds good, Mom. I'll be home in the afternoon," I said. After hanging up, I laid my head on Louis' shoulder, and then, as if to tease me, he said, "Gracie called and said you didn't pick up. I told her you were probably reading or writing." I laughed and nodded.

"You were right," I said, playfully adjusting myself before meeting his eyes. "You're pretty," he said, brushing a strand of hair away from my face. "No, you're gorgeous," he replied, and I could feel my cheeks warm up. Trying to hide my blush, I held up my book in front of my face, feeling a mix of flustered joy.

•

When I got home, my parents were in the living room, and I walked in to greet them.

After sharing a warm hug, I sat beside them on the couch, feeling at home in their presence. Just as I was about to ask about my brother Jacob, he walked in, greeting us with his usual cheerful smile.

We chatted for a bit, and he made me some juice as we talked.

At one point, I mentioned how Mom was excited to visit Charles. "Mom always hoped you'd date him," Jacob teased, raising an eyebrow.

"She wasn't too thrilled when you started dating Louis, crushed her dreams," he added.

I couldn't help but laugh, rolling my eyes. "Never in a million years," I said, tossing a blueberry in my mouth. "They're like my brothers. All of them."

Jacob's playful antics continued as he tried (and failed) to throw a blueberry in my mouth. "You torture your sister when she visits," Dad chimed in, making me giggle.

Jacob rolled his eyes in mock frustration. As we talked, the topic turned to the upcoming Italian Grand Prix.

My mom was planning a trip to see Charles race, and before I knew it, she had already confirmed the plane tickets and accommodation. Jacob jokingly shouted from the other room about his blueberries being eaten, and the moment felt light and full of laughter. We all ran after him, but truth be told, none of us actually wanted his blueberries.

What I love most about my family is how supportive we are of each other. We're always there for one another, and the way we encourage each other is something I truly admire. To me, it feels like our family is close to perfect, a bond that many people wish for.

At that moment, everything in my life seemed to fall into place. My family was amazing, my relationship was thriving, and I felt like I had everything I could ever need.

I used to sit in Centennial Park, daydreaming about meeting someone special, and little did I know, that person would be Louis.

Our first encounter was almost like a scene from a movie, he was wearing a bright Yale sweater, which his mom had teasingly called a "highlighter" color.

It was a fun and unexpected first impression, and when he showed me the shirt his mom was making fun of, I understood why she'd said that.

Since that day, we spoke more and more, our conversations flowing effortlessly. What started as a simple moment of coincidence at the park turned into something that felt meant to be.