From love to letting go

Chapter 1: The Online Encounter

How You Met Her Online 

It was the night of June 1st at 3 AM when I received her first text. We met on a social mediaplatform, and from that initial message, we continued talking well into the early hours of themorning. Even though it was late, and we both needed sleep, we shared our Snapchat handlesand went to bed. I was euphoric that night; our conversation had flowed effortlessly, and wewere just vibing together. By the third day of texting, we had moved to phone calls, talking forhours. It felt like heaven to me.

Initial Conversations and Connection 

Our initial conversations were nothing short of magical. We shared so much within just a fewdays that it felt like I had known her for years. We were incredibly open with each other,revealing everything that was happening in our lives. For someone like me, who had never beencomfortable sharing a lot, this was a novel and exhilarating experience. She always hadsomething to share, and our talks extended from texts to long phone calls. We felt anundeniable connection, and it was exhilarating. 

Developing Feelings and the Excitement of a New Relationship 

I hadn't fallen in love with anyone for the past five years since my school days. I had beenengrossed in my life, struggling to earn a living and complete my college education. Aftergraduating, I secured a job, and a few months into it, I was financially stable and everythingseemed set for my future.

Our daily conversations continued, and one day, she proposed to me. By then, I was completelyin love with her. She was the girl who had listened to me patiently and attentively for so long.Despite being two states apart, it felt like she was right there with me, caring for me. This wasthe moment I realized how deeply I had fallen for her.

Despite the long distance, I decided to meet her in person, traveling 19 hours to her city. I vividlyremember stepping off the train and taking the metro to her place. It was a one-kilometer walkfrom the station, and I decided to buy her chocolates on the way. While I was on the phone withher, she waited for me in the reception area. I playfully told her that I was lost and it would takeme another 15 minutes to find the hotel, even though I was just by the gate. 

When I finally saw her from behind and surprised her, the moment was surreal. Her smilemelted my heart—she was even more beautiful in person than I could have imagined from ourtexts and calls. I doubted if it was all real. Holding her hand for the first time and hugging her feltlike a dream. She had brought me a perfume and chocolates, and was excited to show me hercity. 

Some of my most cherished memories are from that visit. We had video calls every time Ireturned to my place, shared jokes, and laughed at the funny moments in our lives. But the bestpart was holding her hand, walking with her, going out for dinner, and then taking a night stroll.For the first time in my life, I saw myself truly happy. 

In that moment, I realized that love could be found in the most unexpected places andcircumstances. Our online encounter had blossomed into something profoundly beautiful, and Iwas excited to see where our journey would take us next.