Three years ago, a young woman helped her boyfriend pay off his debts after his startup failed. She worked during the day and ran a stall at the night market in the evenings. When her boyfriend asked why she was working so hard, she cried and said, “Because I want you to marry me sooner.” Every day, she cooked in their rented apartment, leaving a light on late into the night as she waited for him to come home. When the kitchen light broke, she didn’t complain. Instead, she turned on the range hood for light and kneaded dough to make steamed buns. She never envied other people riding in the passenger seat. Through every season, she sat behind her boyfriend on his electric scooter. When the rent on their warehouse ran out, the two of them packed up in the rain, hauling goods late into the night and laughing as they said they weren’t tired. No matter how late her boyfriend’s business engagements ran, she would ride her electric scooter to pick him up. On their dates, they never went to upscale restaurants, choosing cheap noodle shops and roadside stalls instead. After three years, the young woman finally got the wedding she had waited for. The groom followed all the traditional betrothal rites, and she married in a phoenix coronet and embroidered robes. There was no blocking the door to demand red envelopes, and no groomsmen causing a ruckus. Instead, the room bloomed with fireworks and the blessings of their friends. With everyone as witness, they exchanged rings and recited their wedding vows. Though their pockets were nearly empty, they had no regrets. How rare it is for a couple to have found each other so young. Even in an age when fast love is everywhere, couples like them still exist, inspiring envy in all who see them.
