The narrator recounts the story of their coworkers, Merle and Aria, who developed a romantic relationship at their workplace, BuzzFeed. The narrator describes how they initially thought Aria was aloof and self-involved but eventually realized he was romantic and loving. As Aria and Merle spent more time together, their flirtation became apparent, and the narrator predicted they would eventually date.
The narrator shares their own experiences and observations of Aria and Merle's relationship, including a turning point where Aria confessed his feelings to Merle. The narrator notes that Aria and Merle's relationship was different from his previous ones, and he eventually realized he had strong feelings for her.
The narrator also discusses how Aria and Merle's relationship affected their work dynamics and how they eventually decided to make their relationship public. The narrator reflects on the importance of love and finding one's best friend in a partner, highlighting that Aria and Merle's relationship is a rare and special thing.
In the end, the narrator expresses their happiness for Aria and Merle and notes that their relationship is a reminder that love can be unexpected and beautiful.
1. The narrator was coming out of a three and a half year relationship at the beginning of 2019.
2. The narrator moved from the BuzzFeed office in New York to the BuzzFeed office in LA in 2019.
3. The narrator's friend, Rachael Merle, was a coworker at the BuzzFeed office in LA.
4. Aria was a new coworker at the BuzzFeed office in LA who would often be flustered and late to meetings.
5. The narrator thought Aria was cute, but also thought he was a liar and didn't want to attend meetings.
6. The narrator's friend, Merle, started talking to Aria and they became close.
7. Aria was pursuing Merle, but she was not interested in him romantically.
8. The narrator realized that Aria had an infatuation with Merle when they showed up on set for a video together.
9. Aria and Merle's relationship was the subject of rumors and speculation among their coworkers and on the internet.
10. The narrator's friend, Jack, was skeptical of Aria's intentions towards Merle.
11. Merle went on dates with other people, but was not interested in them.
12. Aria gave Merle a look that made her feel scared and aroused at the same time.
13. Merle started thinking about Aria in a romantic way after their conversation about sexuality.
14. Merle's mom was coming to town for her birthday, and Merle invited Aria to join them for drinks.
15. Aria touched Merle's leg under the table while sitting next to her mom.
16. Merle started overthinking when they should have their first kiss and where they should have it.
17. Aria grabbed Merle's face and kissed her in a park, which was a romantic and intimate moment for them.
18. The narrator says that Aria and Merle have the type of love that many people would be lucky to find.