Recalling a memory from 2024, when Toan was a final-year student at the Army Officer School 1, Phuong Ly received a message from him on TikTok on a weekend evening. During their conversations, they discovered they were both from Phu Tho province. Their initial conversations were simple and unpretentious, gradually developing day by day, and understanding came naturally and gently, like spring knocking on a door.

Lieutenant Vu Van Toan and his girlfriend Nguyen Phuong Ly. Photo provided by the subject.

In the girl's perception, Toan was calm, mature, and polite. Her first impression of the young officer was his neat uniform, his square face, and his somewhat resolute eyes. It was this exemplary soldier's demeanor and sincerity in his behavior that made Ly feel peaceful and trusting, considering it the foundation upon which their feelings for each other would grow—quietly but deeply.

Loving a soldier means accepting the distance, the holidays and New Year's celebrations spent alone. There are periods of time lasting months, even half a year, before they can see each other in person, spending most of their time "meeting" through phone screens. Therefore, the moments they get to be together are precious. On those rare occasions, they dedicate their time to holding hands while strolling through the streets, watching the bustling crowds, sharing an ice cream cone by the lake on a cold day, or simply sitting next to each other for a long time.

Those moments always pass by so quickly, leaving behind a feeling of longing and nostalgia. During the days they couldn't see each other, what warmed Phuong Ly's heart the most were the handwritten letters her boyfriend sent. Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life and the quick, concise text messages, a handwritten letter felt completely different—sincere and full of emotion. Each line contained care, longing, and gentle encouragement—enough to strengthen Ly's resolve during their time apart.

Each time she received a letter, she carefully opened it, reading it slowly, rereading it many times, admiring her boyfriend's firm handwriting as if wanting to cherish this feeling of being loved for as long as possible. These letters were not just gifts, but also a connecting thread, bridging the distance and allowing her to feel his presence even when they weren't together.

Both sets of parents were thrilled that their children had found their loving partners. In particular, Phuong Ly's father, being a military officer, understood his future son-in-law's work very well. Whenever Toan visited Ly's home, he would chat with her, listen to her advice, experiences, and guidance, which further strengthened his confidence and pride in his chosen path. Before long, the young officer would welcome his beloved into his military family, building a happy life together and keeping the flame of their marriage burning brightly.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/quoc-phong-an-ninh/xay-dung-quan-doi/la-thu-tay-giu-lua-yeu-thuong-1029237