In a journey marked by emotional turmoil, Scott Westerfeld’s flight from New York City to Sydney in September 2001 became pivotal as both romance and tragedy unfolded. Amid the tense aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Westerfeld and Justine Larbalestier discovered love in the face of unpredictability.
Crossing Paths and Kindling Connections
Their story began when Westerfeld, then living in New York, met Larbalestier at a literary award ceremony. Larbalestier, an Australian academic researching the history of publishing, was engrossed in a conversation when introduced to Westerfeld by a mutual friend. Despite her initial disinterest, they bonded over shared interests in science fiction authors and similar pastimes. Their chance encounters at science fiction gatherings fostered a growing connection.
From Separate Lives to a Shared Weekend
Both were involved with other partners initially, but with Larbalestier’s imminent departure to Australia, a final meeting ensued. At a large farewell dinner in New York, a candid exchange revealed mutual recent breakups, paving the way for a shared weekend before distance temporarily separated them once more.
September Paths Converge in Sydney
As autumn turned to spring in Sydney, Westerfeld flew across the world to discover Larbalestier’s environment. Guided by her through Sydney’s vibrant streets amidst a local concern about flying foxes invading the Royal Botanic Gardens, Westerfeld was charmed by the scenes until global news intervened.
On the night of 11 September, the couple dined blissfully unaware at Tetsuya’s. It wasn’t until the following morning that the true magnitude of events in New York—the city they both cherished—became clear. News of the attacks trickled in, bringing concern for friends and familiar places.
The Flight and a Declaration of Love
Despite air travel unease post-9/11, the couple flew to Melbourne the day after learning of the attacks. During a turbulent flight, Westerfeld, confronted with the fragility of the world they knew, proclaimed his love. In that moment, surrounded by uncertainty, Larbalestier reciprocated, anchoring a new phase in their relationship.
Adjusting to a New Reality
The couple navigated the charged atmosphere in Australia, where Westerfeld encountered empathetic gestures from locals due to his New York origins. Amid discussions spanning global conflicts and everyday wonders, they found solace and levity together. Addressing deeper questions provoked by recent events, they recognised each other as companions through turmoil and joy.
A Commitment Cemented
Life’s unpredictability only strengthened their bond. By November 2001, Larbalestier had returned to New York. The pair, having quietly married in upstate New York, continued their life together seamlessly, as if timed to meet the challenges and joys that lay ahead.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.