In the heart of St Kilda, a young woman in her late 20s found herself single and devoted to the art of literature. A fan of good literature and an unpublished poet herself, she spent many nights in the cozy confines of the Doulton bar, discussing poetry with colleagues. It was here that she met Al, an IT specialist from Sydney, who had been deployed to set up internet services at her workplace. Their professional interactions soon turned into more frequent and personal communications, laying the foundation for a relationship that would eventually lead them to a lasting commitment.
Despite Al having a girlfriend and residing in another state, the two felt an undeniable connection. By Christmas, their work-related emails and calls had transitioned into private conversations filled with light-hearted flirtations and shared literary interests. The author decided to test the depth of this connection, only to discover that Al also harbored a passion for poetry. This revelation marked the beginning of many nights spent together, discussing literature, with Al once impressively reciting Robert Frost's "The Road Not Taken" from memory.
The author's intrigue with Al grew as she learned more about his laid-back personality and musical talents as a bass player in a band. Their bond strengthened during these intimate evenings, culminating in their first kiss while touring a house. A year after this pivotal moment, Al proposed, and exactly one year later, they celebrated their union in marriage. Al surprised her at their wedding by serenading her with Jon English's "Six Ribbons," adding yet another poetic touch to their love story.
Now residing together in the high country of Victoria with their two children, the couple reflects on their journey from coworkers to lifelong partners. Eighteen years have passed since those first flirtatious exchanges in St Kilda, and the author fondly reminisces about the spring of 2004, when their love story began to unfold.