The Beginning

It all started when Alanna moved to Mountain View and began looking for a roommate. One epic craigslist ad and housemate search later, Alanna found the ideal person for her extra room, who just happened to be a Google employee and good friend of Haru's.

Alanna and Haru would meet shortly thereafter when the new roomies threw a party at the house. Despite what you might guess, they did not immediately hit it off. In fact, Alanna's first impression of Haru was that he wouldn't talk to her, was too obsessed with his cat and was "kind of a jerk". (In actuality, Haru was merely intimidated by Alanna's beauty and quick wit.  She was definitely right about the cat though.)

As you might have guessed, things didn't stay this way. After a few months of getting acquainted, Haru began to loosen up and he and Alanna started chatting. Eventually Haru worked up the gumption to ask out Alanna, and was mightily pleased when she couldn't resist the Sakai mystique and agreed to a date.

The Proposal

After 5 happy years of dating, it was clear that this relationship was meant to be forever. All that remained was a finding an opportunity for a proposal that would be a special surprise. A perfect chance presented itself during the holidays of 2013 when Haru, Alanna and their friends planned a trip for a New Years celebration in Chicago. Knowing Alanna had a weakness for high tea, Haru placed reservations for the afternoon of New Year's Eve in the Drake Hotel's luxurious tea room. Alanna had always joked about wanting an engagement car and an engagement monkey rather than a fancy diamond ring, so Haru purchased a toy car and a stuffed monkey and had them smuggled to Chicago in a friend's suitcase. The stage was set, and Alanna didn't suspect a thing.

After a lovely spot of crumpets and tea, Haru signaled the waiter to bring out a special glass of champagne and readied himself to pop the question.

She said yes!

Alanna's note: I must have blacked out with excitement! I don't remember ever saying yes, nor do I recall Haru actually popping the question. I do remember the very heartfelt words preceding the alleged question though!

They then walked to Banana Republic and bought an engagement ring for $4.