Unexpected Surprise at Lunchtime
While enjoying a simple lunch, 26-year-old Lam Thao Huong was surprised by a knock on her door. She was greeted by her fiancé’s parents standing beside a pickup truck loaded with three large boxes of food, including dried, fresh, and frozen goods, bread, and rice.
“Mr. Aulenbacher cleared the snow while his wife busily transferred the supplies to the refrigerator. Now, not only is my fridge full, but my heart is too,” Huong shared.
Huong’s fiancé, Benjamin Aulenbacher (39), works in the U.S. Air Force. They live in Pennsylvania, where Huong’s rented home is just a 15-20 minute drive from Ben’s house.
Warmth from the Fiancé’s Family
During a five-month deployment, Ben asked Huong to stay and take care of his house. This was the second time he trusted her with his home since they started dating.
Last time, when Ben was away for two weeks, Huong could still visit the grocery store via public transport. However, this time, harsh weather with heavy snowfall prevented her from going out, forcing her to order food.
After one week, Huong’s father-in-law visited to fix the washing machine. Seeing the empty fridge and fishless fish tank, he called Ben to scold him: “How could you let your girlfriend stay without preparing any food or drinks?”
Before leaving, they kindly reminded Huong, “Remember to turn on the lights so neighbors know someone is home” and “it’s getting cold, make sure to wear warm clothes.”
Ben was surprised by his parents’ thoughtful actions and joked with Huong, “The fridge has never been so full!” He felt like he had become “outdated” because “parents now have another daughter.” According to Huong, the amount of food provided would last for 2-3 months.
Journey to True Love
In August 2024, Huong traveled from Ho Chi Minh City to the U.S. to pursue an MBA. One month later, during a shopping trip, she met Ben, who approached her and asked for her phone number.
Ben admitted he was “blown away” by the first sight of the Vietnamese girl. However, Huong was initially hesitant after recently ending a long-term relationship in Vietnam and didn’t want to rush into another.
With patience and sincerity, Ben gradually won Huong’s heart. His thoughtful gestures, such as giving her roses and familiar Vietnamese fruits like mangoes, apples, and limes, left a lasting impression.
Small yet meaningful acts, like providing reflective straps for safety and preparing breakfast when she overslept, touched Huong’s heart deeply.
Future Plans
While painting the walls together, they discussed their future. Ben openly expressed his desire to marry and build a life together with Huong.
After officially confirming their relationship, Ben introduced Huong to his parents. Despite it being a brief, impromptu visit due to car trouble, their warm welcome erased any initial distance between them.
Currently, the couple is choosing engagement rings. Huong plans to complete her master’s degree before considering marriage and holding the wedding in Vietnam.
Huong’s mother, living in Texas, is happy about her daughter’s relationship and advises her, “Don’t give everything away; keep some for yourself.” The couple also plans to visit Huong’s mother in Texas during the upcoming summer break.
Conclusion
Huong’s story is not just a beautiful love story but also a testament to finding the right person and family. Ben and his family’s care and thoughtfulness have built a strong, admirable relationship. Share this story if it inspires you and follow us for more heartwarming tales.
Source: Dan Tri News
