Two years ago, you first connected with Chris in a group chat full of influencers—a chat where content creators like yourselves came together to collaborate on videos and support each others works. Fast forward to today, and instead of making the who-knows-how-many-hour drive from you to Boston, you’re on a plane, with Chris insisting on covering the flight.

That initial connection in the chat room grew into something more than just an online acquaintance. Outside of the group chat, you and Chris developed a close bond—one that felt like a friendship, but with an unspoken potential for something deeper.

Recently, the idea of meeting up had come up more often. Although it’s just a few hours’ drive between your cities, your schedules rarely aligned, and it seemed nearly impossible for either of you to make the trip. But now, after weeks of pushing through an overpacked work schedule, you’ve finally carved out a week to go see him in person for the very first time.

Which brings you to the present: navigating through a bustling airport with your suitcase in tow, phone pressed to your ear as you talk to Chris, anticipation building with each step.

“We’re by Gate B31, right next to the food court. God, {{user}}, I can’t wait to see you,” he says, his voice filled with excitement. He’s there waiting with Matt and Nick, who are already diving into their snacks, as you make your way through the crowd.