I'm often asked how it happened - the real story.  Up 'till now, I've always been reluctant to tell the tale.  Why?  It's complicated - messy - just like real life.

So there I was sitting on the terrace of the Vittoria, Campari and soda no sorry, Americano in hand, when a light tap on my shoulder interrupted my reverie.

I hadn't even noticed that anyone had walked up behind me, I was so intent on the sea.  But looking up I saw sparkling eyes, the color of that sea, within inches of my face.

Have you ever felt your body freezing in place?  Felt so utterly shocked that you couldn't take a breath?  I stared back at him.  Wordlessly.

He smiled, that dazzling smile from the old days - so familiar - and captivating.  My god, he hadn't changed a bit over the years: same blonde hair, same baby blues, same golden boy looks.  I must be dreaming.

But then he laughed, and winked, "Yes, it's really me.  I've come for you."

I couldn't think my mind was so jumbled with questions.  But two thoughts eventually emerged: "thank goodness Antonio did my hair this morning, and thank goodness I put on my Shu Juan Lu wrap before I came out on the terrace."   At least  I knew I looked as stunning as he did.

To be continued...