From the outset—their casual telephone conversations when Patrik called Farzad— there was no emotional or cultural baggage. What began as a friendly contact between strangers with a shared connection continued once they met as equals and found they were kindred spirits—no pressure, no expectations. Both came to meet as adults, capable of honesty about their feelings but also of exercising restraint, out of respect for the loyalty they owned others. That openness in communication, and mutual respect, along with their shared interests and values, laid a solid ground for a healthy mature relationship. They had no personal agendas; they supported one another in difficult circumstances, only wanting the best for one another—an unselfish love. When the time came that they were free to be together, they truly knew what kind of life they wanted to share.