Page 34 of Giovanni
I’ve always pictured a different kind of relationship for myself. One where I could maintain my sense of self and independence and not be confined by outdated expectations. I believe a committed partnership should be about mutual respect and support, where both individuals can thrive independently and together.
“Mothers have their own ways of showing support, I guess. Maybe she’s doing what she thinks is best to keep the family together, even if it means not rocking the boat to keep the peace in a more traditional home.”
Giovanni looks thoughtful, absorbing my perspective.
“It’s interesting to hear you say that,” he says slowly. “I guess I’ve always been surrounded by those traditional expectations, so much so that thinking outside of that box never really occurred to me until I moved out. Now those expectations are stifling.”
I nod, feeling connected in our shared understanding of wanting something different from the norm.
“It’s all about breaking the mold sometimes, right? Create a path that works for you, not just follow the one laid out by others. You must be true to yourself, or else it can be a miserable existence.”
He smiles, a genuine appreciation in his eyes.
“I like that. Breaking the mold. I guess that’s what I’m trying to do with my career, and maybe in other aspects of my life too.”
Encouraged by his openness, I continue, “It’s not always easy going against the grain, especially with family. But I think it’s worth it to pursue what truly makes you happy, to build a life that’s authentic to who you are.”
I slide my hand over his chest, reaching for his to interlace our fingers in solidarity.
“Have you ever tried breaking out of the norm yourself? Going against what others expected of you?”
“Yeah, I have, in many ways. Going to college out of state, for starters. It wasn’t exactly what my mom expected or could afford, so I put myself through. She’s very proud of me, but it wasn’t ever something we spoke of growing up in my house. She didn’t encourage me like other parents because she knew she couldn’t afford it and didn’t want to put pipe dreams in my head.”
He listens intently, nodding for me to continue.
“And becoming a lawyer, especially focusing on criminal law, and working for the city isn’t exactly most people’s idea of a ‘successful career.’ They’re impressed with oil and gas or corporate law, something more lucrative. But I wanted to make a real difference, work on cases that matter on a personal level.”
Giovanni’s expression softens, respect evident in his gaze.
“That’s pretty courageous, Kacie. I find it hard to stand up for my beliefs, especially when it goes against the grain. And here you are going against it every time, like a warrior.”
I smile, feeling a sense of kinship in our shared experiences.
“It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that staying true to myself is the most important thing. It was more than just choosing a different academic path or career. Being an African American woman supporting myself, working, and paying for law school came with its own set of unique challenges.”
His grip on my hand tightens, a gesture of support.
“I faced the academic pressure of a rigorous program and battled stereotypes and biases. Sometimes, I had to work twice as hard just to be seen on the same level as my peers or even called on in class.”
“That’s incredibly unfair.”
His voice carries a hint of anger at the injustice.
“It was, but it also made me more determined. You know, my journey was made possible by the feminist movement, by powerful women who broke so many barriers. And I have this dream, you see, of giving back. I want to become a law professor, to guide and empower others who come from backgrounds like mine, to show them that they cannot only succeed but also excel and leave their own indelible mark.”
I am taken aback by my openness, articulating thoughts and dreams I’ve never shared with anyone before. It’s a candid admission, revealing parts of my aspirations and inner reflections that have remained unspoken until now. He’s shaking his head, his eyes dancing with admiration, making me feel warm and accepted now that my dreams are out in this intimate world.
“That’s really powerful, Kacie. Your strength and determination are incredible. And the fact that you want to use your experiences to help others? That’s just amazing.”
“Thank you, Giovanni.”
I smile brightly at him, this day and night full of surprises as we find what we need in each other. He gives my hand a gentle squeeze, in time with the ending of a lazy jazz song.
“You’re going to make an incredible professor one day, Kac. Your students will be lucky to have someone as passionate and insightful as you to guide them.”
I kiss his chest, one after another, until he growls and rolls me on my back. An implicit invitation that seems to hang between us as he hovers over me. His proximity, the warmth of his body on mine, sends a thrill of anticipation through me.
“Is this okay?” His voice is a gentle murmur that matches the intimate atmosphere of the room. My heart beats a little faster, and my core heats with desire.
