Eight years later…

​

“Do you have everything ready?” Brian asked, his voice laced with excitement.

​

“Yup! Let me just grab my bag and we can head out,” Louise replied with a smile.

​

It had been four long years since Brian and Louise last traveled to Japan. The pandemic had put their favorite destination out of reach, but now, finally, they were going back. Japan held a special place in their hearts—the food, the people, the culture—it was the first country they had ever visited together, and they had even once entertained the idea of living there.

​

This trip was different, though. It was their first international adventure since COVID-19 had upended the world, and for the first time, they were traveling with a group of friends. Louise, who loved planning trips, was determined to make everything perfect. She was both excited and nervous; organizing a trip for a big group that wasn’t her family was a new challenge.

 

At the airport, they met their friends, all buzzing with anticipation. Four hours later, they landed at Fukuoka International Airport, exhausted but thrilled. They quickly made their way to the hotel and went to bed early, knowing the days ahead would be packed with adventure.

​

Over the next five days, they visited four different cities and eight prefectures, immersing themselves in the incredible culture, rich history, and, of course, the mouthwatering food that Japan had to offer. Their next stop was Mt. Fuji.

​

Louise had been to Mount Fuji twice before, but never from Tokyo. The group had a tough time figuring out which train to take, leading to a frustrating back-and-forth with the station staff. After what felt like ages, they finally figured it out, but they arrived at Lake Kawaguchiko an hour and a half later than planned. Despite the delay, the sight of Mount Fuji in the distance made it all worthwhile.

​

Their first stop was the famous Lawson store with its stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji, a spot that had become an Instagram sensation. Because they were late, the place was packed with people waiting to take their perfect shot. Louise’s friends went first, and then it was her and Brian’s turn.

​

They took their positions and smiled for the camera. Suddenly, Brian pulled out his own camera and started vlogging. Louise, not wanting to hold up the line, began to step away, but Brian gently pulled her back into the frame. He talked about the beauty of the place, the journey they had taken, and then, with a playful grin, he said, “Louise, turn around.”

​

Confused, Louise turned around to see a group of people holding up a banner that read, “Louise, will you marry me?” She spun back to Brian, and there he was, down on one knee, holding a ring. Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized who the people holding the banner were—it was her family, with her dad front and center, whom she hadn’t seen in almost two years.

 

Overcome with emotion, Louise ran towards them, forgetting for a moment that Brian was still waiting for her answer. She turned back, her heart racing, and said, “Yes!” as Brian slipped the ring onto her finger.

​

Amid the cheers and tears, Louise knew this trip would be one she’d never forget. It was the perfect ending to a long-awaited journey, filled with love, laughter, and a promise of a future together.