It’s scary to think about. That we could be so close, so fast. Honestly, maybe the fact that our relationship has mostly grown through texts and phone calls has helped get us to this intimate place so soon. Texting with Alex, I’m not worrying about how my hair came out that morning, or whether I’m hogging the shared popcorn at the movies. I can just be utterly myself, without any of that self-consciousness that you usually have to deal with. It’s like the shield of the phone screen makes it easier to be vulnerable. Even now, sitting in the dark living room with my mascara melting and snot dripping, I feel totally safe. I love him.

Wait. WHAT?

Where did that thought come from? But it’s like my brain is completely separate from the rest of me—chanting, I love him, I love him, over and over. But I don’t really mean it. I can’t. Can I? I’ve only known the guy for two months. I’ve had relationships with gel manicures longer than that.

I need to get off this phone before those three words—that I definitely don’t mean—slip out. I thank him again and hang up, trying to steady the heavy thumping in my chest. Then I tiptoe back into my room, slip on some sweats and sneakers, throw my pajama shorts into a tote bag along with my toiletries kit, and head out the front door.

By the time I check into my hotel room, wash up, and lie down in bed, I feel totally drained. Exhausted. Dead. Zapped. I’m about to turn off my lights when my phone pings.

Alex: All set?

Me: Cozy and comfy and ready for sleep. Wish I could thank you in person. Remind me again why you live in Hong Kong?

Alex: I could tell you it’s because it’s the financial hub of Asia, but really it’s OX Café. Their oxtail soup would be worth living on Mars for.

Me: If you say so…

Alex: Don’t take my word for it. Come try for yourself. Lane Crawford wants to have a meeting about your line. Can you make a trip over the second week in May?

I leap out of the bed and start silently screaming and jumping. This is huge. Up until now, I’ve only had success getting one department store here in Korea to agree to take the line. I never even considered that my bags could be in stores internationally.

And perhaps even more exciting than the business opportunity is the chance to be with Alex in person, to visit him where he lives, maybe even meet some of his friends. Up until now, we’ve only spent time together in neutral sites—Singapore and Paris—where we were both travelers. Spending time with Alex on his home turf feels like a big step. I’m equally excited and terrified.