Our Love Story

We met on a cruise ship through mutual friends. We kind of got close because we spoke the same language—both of us are Ilonggo.

After a year, we saw each other again on another cruise ship, and that’s when we became close friends. We would hang out with our friends, argue, tease each other, and eventually realized that we had very different personalities.

It didn’t work out at first—we fought a lot. But over time, we started to understand each other better. At the beginning, it was really hard to adjust, but somehow, we learned how to connect with each other.

As we spent more time together, we began to feel safe with one another. The love we had before is so different from what we have now—and that’s what we’ve come to truly appreciate.

You won’t always find your partner in a comfortable place; sometimes, God gives you someone who helps shape your attitude.

Arl is a very responsible person—cold at times, but caring.

To Arl

Who would’ve thought that a simple meeting on a cruise ship—through friends of friends—would be the start of something so real?

At first, it was our shared language that brought us closer. Being Ilonggo gave us a sense of home in the middle of the sea. A year later, fate crossed our paths again, and that’s when we became more than just acquaintances—we became close friends.

We spent time with our circle, laughed together, fought, teased each other endlessly. And in those moments, we slowly discovered how different we were. Our personalities clashed. It didn’t always work out—arguments were frequent, and there were times it felt too hard.

But something kept us going. Maybe it was the hope, or maybe it was that quiet understanding growing between us. We learned each other’s quirks. Slowly, we figured out how to adjust. Eventually, we found that special spark—that “kiliti”—that made things feel right.

The more time we spent together, the more we realized how safe we felt in each other’s presence. That comfort wasn’t instant—it was built through time, effort, and grace. What we have now is nothing like what we had in the beginning. It’s deeper. Stronger. More appreciated.

They say love should be easy—but real love teaches, shapes, and even challenges you. Sometimes, you won’t find your partner in a place of comfort. Sometimes, God gives you someone who will help shape your character.

Arl, that’s what you’ve done for me.

You are responsible, quiet at times, but your care speaks louder than words. You’ve been my calm in the storm. Thank you for choosing to grow with me.

With all my heart,
Lyka