Rewrite the Stars

Fast Forward

I spent that Saturday packing.

The last six months was grueling professionally and personally. I was working 16 hour-days with Gino transitioning his role to me and me spending time with Lana during the night so she can take over MOREments.

Gino and I had very little personal time to ourselves, but made sure we spent precious moments together even when it was just to have coffee, eat, cuddle or share the occasional steamy kiss.

He decided to build his own studio instead of staying in the corporate world. He spent the last few months building the studio, but he has not brought me to see it. I knew he was very excited to finally do it.

"You will see it when it's ready, Baby. I want it to be perfect before I bring you." He was quick to reassure me.

Gino and I made a decision to move in together now that I will permanently live in New York. I am moving in to his beautiful home in Upper Manhattan next week. It was the practical thing to do. We slept together every chance we got anyways. We didn't need separate homes.

I was a little bit nervous with this big change. I stopped myself from expecting that Gino will soon take things to the next level. I was content with where we are. I knew we'll both take the next step when we're ready.

Our relationship is very serious. Moving in together is a serious and life-changing move. But I don't want to expect that he will pop the question soon. Timing is everything. He'd do it when we're both ready.

The long hours will stop next week. I am ready to be Kate Spade's GCMO for North America. Lana is ready to take over MOREments. Gino is leaving Kate Spade next week to focus on his studio.

That Sunday morning, I woke up early to continue packing. Gino and I were going out in the afternoon to spend some quality time together. I still missed him even when we spent all available time together. I was excited to move in with him, to see his beautiful face every time I woke up.

I was surprised by the doorbell ringing at 7:00AM as I was having my morning coffee.

It was a package from Gino. I smiled and felt giddy. Gino still has a way of sending butterflies to my stomach.

I excitedly tore the wrapper.

It was a navy chiffon sleeveless dress that went up to my knees. There was a silver bow that went around the waist. The fabric was light to the touch. It was a beautiful dress.

I smiled as I read the note.

"Wear this dress for our date this afternoon, Baby. Meet me at the new cafe, K, at 22nd at 3:00PM. Can't wait to see you. - Your Maginoo"

I can't stop smiling all morning. Gino really has a way of making me feel special. I am very happy and content with how our relationship progressed. Was it only last year when I never thought I'd see him again? Time flew fast. We were in such a better place than where we were, then.

I was really excited to see him that afternoon, too.

I parked at 2:50PM right outside K. We've never been here before.

The sign on the door says they just opened today. No wonder.

There was a long line outside, but I knew Gino very well, so I checked with the front staff if he had a reservation. And he did.

The staff ushered me in. The place was huge. It was a cafe and an art gallery. It was very posh. The walls were made of glass, natural light illuminated the entire place from floor to ceiling. The floors were covered with a light gray wall-to-wall carpet and all the walls were white. It was beautifully and tastefully done.