While 2020 was a heavy year for the world, it quietly became something beautiful for us. We met in Cairo on August 2020 through a mutual friend, and what began as a simple introduction quickly turned into long conversations, easy laughter, and a connection that felt meant to be. Maria was loud and completely herself, and definitely caught John’s eye. On February 18, 2021, we said our first “I love you,” and later that year John planned our first official date on Maria’s birthday, thoughtful, intentional, and very John.
Time zones, late-night calls, and countdown apps became part of our rhythm. And then life surprised us in the sweetest way. John ended up moving just 20 miles from Maria, close enough to hold hands without a boarding pass. Somewhere along the way, Maria may or may have not created a presentation titled “Why John?” and presented it to her parents. Questions were asked. Points were defended. The verdict? Unanimously in favor. And then, on December 28, 2024, back where it all started in Egypt, John proposed. Maria cried, not out of surprise, but because deep down, she had always known.
And ever since that first meeting, we’ve kept choosing each other, and can’t wait to keep choosing each other forever.
