Happily ever after: Single mom's touching love story with man 15 years junior

It was four months since they had started dating, and her boyfriend's family and friends were incensed and even spread rumors that she had "cast a love spell" on him.

Her own parents were skeptical, believing the age gap was too much for a lasting relationship. "While dating Phuoc, I received more hurtful comments than ever before," the mother of two says.

The 45-year-old had been a single mother for 13 years after her divorce, taking full responsibility for raising her children and supporting her aging parents.

She juggled multiple jobs to earn enough money, with her day job being that of a sales director for a foreign company.

Also taking on the breadwinner role, she manages her family’s daily needs, becoming skilled in many household tasks, including electrical and plumbing repairs, painting, and even building furniture.

Hoang Phuoc and Hong Hoa at their café in Thu Duc City. Photo courtesy of the couple

Hoa had a handmade furniture business and in early 2019 opened a café in Thu Duc City to showcase her woodwork, Phuoc was the lead singer in a band that performed there.

The café took up her spare time, from planting trees and building tables to decorating the garden and managing bookkeeping.

"I didn't have time for makeup; some days, I would be out in the garden all day, barefoot under the sun," she says.

Meanwhile, in Phuoc’s eyes, she stood out as a unique person. He often observed Hoa, smiling when she smiled and feeling uneasy when she seemed upset. At the time he was not aware of their 15-year age gap. He only noticed her hard work, determination, and captivating charm that seemed to set her apart.

Once he saw Hoa sitting alone and went over to check on her, setting off a spark of something in her.

"I don't know why, but his eyes seemed so familiar," she recalls. "I just wanted to keep talking to him."

Knowing she was tending the garden alone, Phuoc began arriving early at the café before performances to lend a hand, gradually forming a bond with Hoa through shared interests like Buddhist philosophy and a love of nature.

Whenever he knew she would be at the café he brought her food and found himself missing her on days they could not meet.

Hoa recognized the young man's intentions and feelings but felt the age difference was a barrier. One day, when Phuoc brought her a meal, she expressed her concern, suggesting they should remain friends.

But Phuoc was undeterred and continued to see her daily.

As their bond grew stronger, Hoa noticed that Phuoc had a unique way of understanding and caring for her children, teaching them to ride bikes, play badminton, and more.

Unlike others interested in her, Phuoc embraced her family fully and brought her warmth and comfort.

In late 2019 HCMC hosted a singing competition for corporate employees. Phuoc was hesitant about contesting, but Hoa encouraged him, saying: "Life should be vibrant. If you have a dream, pursue it."

Phuoc took her advice to heart and won first place. After posting his achievement on social media, Hoa was the first to congratulate him, commenting, "I always believed you could do it."

However, his family reacted negatively to seeing her supportive message online. Hoa was hurt but remained silent.

Understanding her pain, Phuoc stepped forward to defend Hoa.

Some days he would receive dozens of calls from his parents, relatives, and friends advising him to reconsider.

At one point he was even threatened with being disowned since his relationship with an older woman was viewed as "disrespectful" to the family.

"Choosing a wife means choosing my own life," he explained to his parents. "People doubt our age gap, but what matters is the heart and soul of the person I love."

As the tensions kept spiraling, Hoa considered breaking up with him, but Phuoc remained unwavering, telling her he would protect her at all costs.

"You don't need to feel hurt or afraid; if you do, I'll make sure to change that," he promised her.

Moved by his commitment, Hoa felt secure in their relationship. In January 2020 the couple held their wedding, but without the presence of either family.

Hoa and Phuoc celebrate their wedding in January 2020 without any family members present. Photo courtesy of the couple

Once married, Phuoc helped Hoa manage her café and care for her parents and children, giving her space to focus on her woodworking business.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoa's woodwork company was affected and faced bankruptcy. Years of hard work and investment went down the drain, leaving her devastated.

Phuoc took on extra work landscaping to support her financially and emotionally, even cooking nutritious meals to help her through the stress.

Many nights Hoa would find her husband up late, diligently preparing herbal medicine for her.

"Fate was kind to bring us together when I needed you most," she told her husband once, holding his hand tightly.

After rebuilding from scratch, Hoa now runs a small woodcraft business at home. Phuoc manages the café and supports their family.

The couple has spent nearly every day together for the past four years, sharing joys and challenges. Whenever his wife is out of sight, Phuoc calls to check. Reflecting on their journey, Hoa believes age has never defined their love.

"Our happiness does not depend on age. It's about finding a partner who connects with, understands, and loves you.