Their Love Story

(As told by Dimitri, a friend who was there from the start)

It all began on November 19th, 2022. Dylan and I had just landed in Berlin after meeting Richard’s sister and her boyfriend (now husband) a few months earlier while traveling through Indonesia. They had promised to show us a real Berlin night out…and they did not disappoint.

Sometime during that special night, Richard showed up to join the fun. As soon as he and Dylan met, something clicked. Within moments, they were dancing together as if they had known each other for years. There was an ease between them that everyone could feel. At the time, it just felt like fun. But looking back, it was clear that something meaningful had begun. History was being made on that dance floor.

We didn’t leave the club until 7:00 in the morning. Our hotel checkout was fast approaching, and we had no new plans, no place to go. That’s when Richard stepped in. He helped us pack our bags, checked us out of our hotel, and brought us back to his apartment to keep the fun going. We hadn’t slept and I was beyond exhausted, but even in that state, I could see something was forming between them. They kept smiling, laughing, and dancing around his living room like the night had never ended.

What started that night didn’t stop. Their story continued to unfold across continents and time zones. And I had the privilege of watching it all from the very beginning.

As Dylan and I continued our travels, Richard stayed close. No matter where we were in the world, those little green WhatsApp messages kept lighting up her phone. I always knew when it was him. She’d smile to herself, put her phone to her ear, and listen to his voice messages with a glow in her eyes. They would talk for hours, video chatting from opposite sides of the world, sharing stories, laughter, and little pieces of their lives. Even when they were far apart, he never felt far away. He was always there. Always present. Always in her thoughts.

Nearly a year later, on October 30th, 2023, back in the city where it all began, Dylan and Richard made it official. They were finally boyfriend and girlfriend. From there, everything started falling into place. Dylan started visiting Germany regularly. Richard began traveling to the United States. They met each other’s families and friends. They explored new cities together, took road trips, and made memories all over the world (many of which I had the joy of being a part of). Every time they reunited, their bond grew stronger. Their love became more solid, more joyful, and more true.

And then came the proposal.

On the sun-kissed island of Koh Phi Phi in Thailand, with Love Story by Taylor Swift playing in the background, Richard got down on one knee. He asked her to marry him with a big, sparkling diamond ring and an even bigger heart. Dylan, of course, said yes! (Yes, I knew it was coming. Yes, I helped plan it. And yes, it was absolutely perfect.)

Since that unforgettable night in Berlin, I’ve had the joy of watching Dylan fall in love, grow with grace, and become even more of the remarkable woman she is. Seeing the way Richard loves her, with kindness, patience, and unwavering devotion, has been a gift to witness. I couldn’t be happier or prouder to be a part of this story. And I cannot wait to see all the beautiful chapters that still lie ahead.

D&R