From Online Game to Real-Life Romance: A Love Story Across Continents
In 2023, author Susan Hayes was ready for a change after years of Covid lockdowns in Victoria, Canada. Having quit her day job in 2019 to write and travel, only to face a global shutdown, she found solace in an online game about surviving a zombie apocalypse. This simple phone game became a lifeline, connecting her with people worldwide, including a witty Australian named Craig.
The Spark of Connection
Craig's clever way with words quickly captured Susan's attention. Their daily chats became the highlight of her routine, sparking a chemistry that felt special yet remained light-hearted. As internet strangers living many time zones apart, they assumed their paths would never cross. However, when Susan learned Craig lived in Australia, coinciding with her plans to attend a romance book signing in Melbourne, fate intervened.
With courage, she asked about his location, discovering he resided in Melbourne. What began as a tentative suggestion for coffee evolved into plans for a full day of exploration together. Their first meeting was a delightful adventure through the city centre, focusing on coffee, chocolate, and bookshops, culminating in a visit to a shop selling replica swords and armour.
A Kiss Straight Out of a Novel
Despite the amazing day, Susan's instincts, rusty from over a decade of singleness and Covid isolation, left her unsure if it was a date. To her, Craig embodied a real-life romance hero: tall, handsome, charming, with a great sense of humour and a geeky side that matched her own. The evening ended back at her hotel, where Craig, a photographer, offered to capture photos of the Melbourne gasworks from her window.
After taking the pictures, he set down the camera and asked permission to kiss her. In a moment reminiscent of a romance novel, Susan said yes, realising instantly that Craig was someone she wanted to keep in her life. This pivotal kiss marked the beginning of their deep connection.
Building a Future Together
They spent as much time together as possible, with Craig even assisting Susan at a book signing, handling the chaos with sweetness and support. Before her departure, a brief conversation confirmed their mutual desire for a future together, driven by love and determination. Months later, Craig visited Canada, strengthening their bond through shared experiences like whale watching and meeting her family.
In 2024, during another trip to Australia, Susan proposed, and Craig happily accepted. Their journey wasn't easy, involving thousands of hours of online conversations, video calls, and the challenges of a long-distance relationship. But they persevered, marrying in March 2025.
A New Life in Melbourne
Susan has since moved to Melbourne, joining the stream of new immigrants to Australia. Together, they are building a life filled with laughter, occasional geeky moments, and a steadfast belief that their love story is just beginning. As an author of over 70 books, Susan's real-life romance adds a personal touch to her storytelling, inspiring others with their cross-continental tale.
