Our first trip after the winter we spent together in Russia: Istanbul. Neither of us really knew what we were, or what to expect, but somehow I always had a good feeling about us, and something told me it would be worth it. I was the first to arrive at the hotel and waited for you. I was incredibly nervous and didn’t even know how I would react when I saw you. And then, when I finally opened the door and saw you, saw your bright blue eyes, I immediately knew that coming to Istanbul was the right decision. That feeling of safety and comfort came rushing back. We had a beautiful evening and enjoyed a great meal together.

The nervousness quickly disappeared because we could laugh a lot together and share the same silly sense of humor. You just make me laugh!

Normally, people get to know each other first and then go on vacation together. For us, it was a little different — we went on a trip together right away. They say you only really get to know someone when you travel with them, and that's when you find out if you truly fit. Well, we’re not exactly "normal," and I already knew we’d enjoy our time together — but I still wasn’t sure how it would go or what we’d actually do together. But it quickly became clear that we share the same idea of what traveling should be like! You even brought extra sausage just for the street cats! That’s when I knew — yep, this is the one. With you, everything just feels so easy. You plan things, you want to experience life, you’re spontaneous — and somehow, everything just flows when we’re together. From that moment on, I admitted to myself what I had actually known: I love you.

Of course, we also do the typical tourist stuff and visit the palaces — well, in our own way. The ADHD way.

Since we enjoyed the fish market so much yesterday, of course we went back again. I mean, why go for fancy dining when you can just grab oysters at the fish market, a bottle of wine from the corner shop, and enjoy it by the water? Definitely a highlight of this trip — simply unforgettable.

We spent the morning by the beautiful port, drinking coffee, eating Kazandibi (Caramelized pudding with chicken breast) and simply enjoying our time together.

Another inside joke: “No criminal”… well, maybe just a little criminal. It’s the little things that make our dynamic so special. We often think the same way and share the same opinions — it’s almost scary. And one of the most important things: you accept me just the way I am. When I occasionally take something I like from a restaurant, you just go with it. We all have our weird little habits and quirks, and it’s such an incredibly beautiful feeling to know that you accept mine.

So actually, we had plenty of time to catch the boat. And what do we do when we have time? Of course, we get coffee. Naturally, we had no idea we’d be served by the slowest barista ever. But what can I say — when we’re together, things just somehow always work out, and we made it onto the boat in the end.

In this photo, we were at that cool rooftop bar. The drinks were amazing and the vibe was perfect. But I also associate that place with something else: Pascha. Right below the bar was that Beşiktaş football shop. I had never really thought about what it would be like if I ever met someone who already had a child. When things started getting more serious between us in Russia, I had two red flags in my head: the age difference and Pascha. But those worries turned out to be completely unfounded. It never made me feel uncertain that you already have a child. I see it only as something positive. Pascha is a wonderful kid, and when I see how you are with him, it simply makes me happy — because I know you’re a perfect father. I know you worry a lot about this topic, but it’s so clear that Pascha loves you, and that he will always come back to you, no matter what happens. When we were in that shop picking out clothes for him, I felt a sense of naturalness. It didn’t feel strange at all — it felt right. Honestly, I’m surprised myself, but maybe it was just meant to be.

We still had a beautiful afternoon with oysters, but the mood was heavy, because neither of us knew when we’d see each other again. And yet, after this trip, it was clear to both of us — this journey isn’t over. Tema, I wouldn’t say I’m someone who shows their emotions often. But when it was time to say goodbye, I just couldn’t hold it in. The tears just came. I think there are very few people I’ve cried in front of as much as I have in front of you. But the most important thing is: these tears weren’t from sadness, disappointment, or pain. And of course, fate wanted to give us a little hope — and a sign — by having us depart from gates right next to each other. Coincidence? I don’t think so.