Something Else
Landing Feet First
ONE YEAR LATER | NOVEMBER; NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
A lot of growing up can happen when you toss yourself in a situation that drastically changes your life. Moving to a new city with a new job can change that and make you born again— a rise of the Phoenix, if you will. That’s what happened to me. One year ago, Steven came to my house in Los Angeles and asked me one question, the biggest question that I’d ever been asked.
“—Who do you want?” He asked his baby blue eyes lighting up my heart.
Tonight was the Vogue Holiday Celebration and it was going to be stock piled with designers, celebrities, and friends of the company. I was living out my night in a gorgeous Balmain dress on this fabulous night just a few weeks before Christmas; where I would be going home to LA and spending it with my family. All was well and the champagne was flowing nicely as we were all enjoying one another’s company.
Nicole and I were chatting with Tonne Goodman and Anna Wintour about how wonderful the December issue was going to be and how this was the first issue where Nicole, Tonne, and I styled every single shoot in that magazine for that month. Anna was going on and on about how happy she was with Nicole and I and how we’ve brightened up the company since joining a year ago; she was giving her thanks and it was making me feel all fuzzy inside.
Tonne had walked off and Anna was talking more when she smiled suddenly, “Ah, Mr. Bohn, I’m glad you could make it.” She said, walking behind me and giving no one other than Steven a kiss on the cheek and a hug. He was a wearing a gorgeously tailored black Tom Ford suit and his famous smile.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world. You never let me live it down for missing last year.” He joked making her laugh, walking in our little circle.
“Oh Steven, have you met Nicole and Bonnie? They are my darling stylists for the magazine; I just don’t know what I’d do without them.” Anna said, her short blonde bob moving with her.
“I don’t believe I have. I’m Steven Bohn.” He said, shaking my hand, smirking wildly.
“Bonnie Perez, nice to meet you Steven. This is Nicole.” I gestured over to Nicole to went along with the joke and shot him a smile and shook his hand. I looked over to Anna, “He’s a cutie, where did you find this one?”
“Oh, he’s the lawyer for Vogue. I believe he’s single, too.” She winked at me before smiling and walking away to mingle with other personnel. Nicole had looked at Steven and chuckled, walking off to find Cam, leaving he and I alone.
“You look beautiful, Perez.” He grinned, checking out my outfit.
“Thank you, it’s Balmain.” I grinned widely. “You’re looking extra handsome in that Tom Ford tux, Bohn.” I returned the compliment and noticed that Anna was talking to Tonne and looking at us; I guess she was informing Anna that Steven and I were quite familiar with one another— then she made eye-contact with me and gestured me to go for it. Nicole and I had grown close to Anna over the last year, and she knew of this heartache I had but never with who. “Single, huh?”
He laughed, his nose scrunching up. “Thank you.” It was quiet for a moment, Steven kicking his feet a little bit. “And yeah, been really single since you. Can you believe we live in the same city and we don’t see each other?”
I smiled softly, “Strange, isn’t it? We need to change that. Oh, and I’ve been meaning to ask you if you’re going to the Christmas party back in LA?”
He nodded, “Yeah, we’re all going. Company is paying for flights, believe it or not. Are you?” His blue eyes studied me and his smile never left him. He was looking really, really, good.
I nodded, sipping on my champagne. “Yes sir, I am. I get back home the day before and am going to be there until the 26th. One week in LA, what can go wrong?”
“You got a date for that thing?” He asked curiously, sipping on his champagne, shooting me a glance at the table to sit at. I decided to take him to my table, since no one was at it, and we could chat there. We both sat, him first taking my chair out for me before he sat himself. “So, back to my question— you got a date for the holiday party?”
I moved my hair behind my ear, revealing the diamond earrings he had gotten me years earlier, and he smiled. “No, I don’t. I’ve been pretty single, as well. But, it’s been really nice, actually. It’s been necessary for me, I think.”
He nodded, smirking to himself as he finished up his drink. “God, you look so beautiful, Bonnie. I mean that. And you’re also wearing my favorite perfume. You knew I was going to be here or something? So you could drive me nuts?”
I grinned, laughing a little. “Miss Dior is a popular scent, Bohn. And no, I didn’t actually. I’ve managed to only run into you twice since we broke up and I moved out here. Ain’t that something?”
“I almost didn’t come. But, Anna’s been hounding me about it since I missed last year.” Things went silent again between us and he looked at me for a while— a smile never leaving. “No more pink?” He asked about my hair.
Shaking my head, I laughed at the same time. “Oh no, no. I got rid of that. I was obviously having a crisis and everyone knew that so they just let it happen. I’m thankful for that.”
He laughed along with me and then even sat with me at the table the rest of the night, engulfed in champagne and conversations; it was beyond incredible to be beside him again. He was telling me all of what’s happened in his life since we last spoke and how my dad always asks him if he sees me around, but Steven always says no. Anna came up to us multiple times and said she’s never seen a better dressed duo and we told her that we used to get that all the time; and then she asked how we really met, Steven going into the entire thing. It felt good.
After the party, Steven and I bailed out on it and he decided to walk me home as it was not a far trek back. We were guided by the street lamps and the light of the full moon back to the front steps of my place. “Want me to walk you up?” He asked, noticing the time and how late it was on the gold Rolex he wore on his left wrist; gifted to him by my father.
I shook my head, “No, I’m fine. Thank you, though. You gonna walk home by yourself?” I asked curiously, noticing the time myself on my phone, not seeing an Uber or cab around.
He chuckled, “I don’t live far, Bonnie. I’ll be fine.” He looked at the ground for a moment before looking at me again. “I’m going to call you tomorrow, okay? We should get lunch or dinner or something. You know, if you want?”
I nodded, smiling and biting my lip a little, “I’d like that. I really would.”
He lit up like a firework, a bright smile giving away his excitement. “Great. I’ll let you know when I get home okay?” He bent down and kissed my cheek before opening the door for me and letting me inside. He turned around and walked away and I went my own way up to my apartment. Tonight sure was interesting, and tomorrow would be the same. Everything usually was here in New York.
"New York, New York, big city of dreams. But, everything in New York ain't always what it seems."
THREE WEEKS LATER | DECEMBER; LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
It was always hilarious to me how in the same country, the weather could be polar opposites. In New York, it was cold and snowy, but here in Los Angeles, it was sunshine and a cool breeze; just like I liked it. I did kind of miss sipping on hot coffees most of the time, though. Here I was at my favorite place, Nipsy’s, sitting outside in the sun waiting for Nicole and Cam to arrive. They’ve been back in California for two days, I arrived this morning.
Moments later, three bodies popped up in front of me, taking me away from my December issues of Vogue and Harpar’s Bazaar, where I eyed Nicole, Cam, and Mike Fuentes; whom I hadn’t spoken too or seen since the night I had cheated on Steven. They all sat down, a server coming and taking their coffee orders and everyone looked at me. “Hey Bonnie.” Mike said with a genuine smile, a cutoff tee still being a staple in his wardrobe.
“Hi Mike,” I said, returning the friendly smile, noticing that he was wearing his wedding ring. I never saw him as a wear-the-wedding-ring type of fellow. That earned my respect, actually. “How’s dad life going?”
He grinned, raising his eyebrows. “Oh, it’s amazing!” He went into story after story of his daughter, named Georgia, who was obsessed with oldies music and loved to sing and smash on the drums. He showed us countless photos of her and her bouncy brown curls. She was a year old, but had such a personality and I could tell that Mike was endlessly happy. Cam and him started talking about this photoshoot that his wife Alysha did, and he lit up when he was talking about her. That was incredible to me. I wasn’t sure if she ever found out about when he cheated on her, but I feel like if she did, she wouldn’t have cared because they were going to be parents.
We all talked about New York when Mike asked about it and he asked how it was at Vogue, and that Vic saw our names in the magazine so he cut it out and framed it. Nicole and I spoke to Vic often, and his girlfriend, too. It was nice to catch up with an old friend and not have drama. Some time later, Nic and Cam went inside to get muffins, and I was sitting outside with Mike. “How’s Steven doing?” He asked curiously, sipping on his iced concoction.
I smiled, “He’s doing fine. I actually ran into him a few weeks ago. He should be landing back today, actually.”
“You ran into him?” He asked, shocked that Steven and I hadn’t had much contact while in New York.
Nodding, I answered, softly. “We had broken up after— you know. But, a few weeks after that, he came down and asked me who I really, really wanted; you or him. And, I chose myself. I saw him at the Vogue Holiday Party a few weeks ago. And we hung out often after that.”
He smiled, tapping his fingers on the lid of his cup, as usual. “You two will get back together. I know it.”
“Why do you say that?” I raised an eyebrow his way.
“Bonnie, you cheated on the dude with me, and he still went and was willing to get back together with you. The guy loves you more than anything on the planet— you two are going to get back together, if not now, someday.” And with that, Nicole and Cam came back outside and the conversation averted onto other subjects before we all went our separate ways. I went back to my parents house, where I was staying in my childhood bedroom again, which was weird as hell, but relaxing in a way. Mike had added me back on all social media, and then posted a photo of himself with Cam, Nicole, and I saying, “Great times catching up with old friends. Well, I guess this is growing up.”
Later that night, I had gotten in my car and drove to LAX, hoping I was at the right side where Steven would be. We weren’t together or anything, but I did promise him he could be my date to this Christmas shindig the firm was having. Only if he dressed in another tuxedo for me since he looked so damn handsome the night of my holiday party at work. After about fifteen minutes of waiting, he called me and told me he had landed and that he would be heading to the front. I told him I was in my old baby, and when he came out, he laughed a little.
He opened the backseat and tossed his luggage in there before coming to the passenger seat and greeting me with a surprise kiss on my cheek. “Hey, Bon. I’m loving the old school vehicle you got going on.” He chuckled, his thumb on my cheek, making me smile widely.
“How vintage Bonnie and Steven is this car, though?” I asked jokingly, knowing this was the car I had when he and I were first together many moons ago. “How was your flight?” I questioned, pulling out of the front and attempted to cut through traffic to get on the road.
“It was good. I slept during the whole thing because I took some sleeping pill. That’s the most sleep I’ve gotten in ages, it seems.” He admitted, adjusting his seat so he could be more comfortable and also putting his sunglasses on. “How come I forgot it’s hot as shit here?”
“That’s what I said! I landed wearing a coat, Steven. I was wearing a coat in Los Angeles in December; everyone was looking at me like I was absolutely insane.” He was quiet, fidgeting with with the pocket on his jacket. “Are you hungry or something? I feel like I shouldn’t let this outfit go to waste on the airport.” I said, lightly riding the break because we were approaching a red light, then looking down at my orange suede skirt that I was wearing and then looking over at Steven for a response; I felt like I’d been rambling on and on.
He smiled sweetly, looking over at me and placing his hand on my thigh. “You look absolutely beautiful, Bonnie. Just, gorgeous.” He was looking me in my eyes and it was making me nervous, I wasn’t sure what he was doing. Soon enough he was face-to-face with me and planet a soft, yet passionate kiss onto my lips. “You are so beautiful.” He said onto my lips before kissing them again and smiling.
I was shook to my core and his actions that were small, yet huge at the same time. What was he doing? We weren’t together or anything, we never even talked about it. Not that I didn’t want it, but I didn’t know where his head was at. Well, I didn’t know until now. Our gaze was broken by the car honking behind me, urging me to go already. I jumped then continued driving, Steven’s hand still on my thigh as I drove. I forgot what I was even talking about before, to be honest.
Soon enough, we were at my parent’s house since he was using the guest house, and refused to stay at his own parent’s house for the sake of his father, but we were parked in the driveway for some time just sitting there. “What was that for?” I finally asked as he was beginning to climb out of the car.
“Because, I love you.” He said with a nervous smile before grabbing his bags and walking to the front door, going inside. I sat there, in a daze but secretly knowing that’s what I’ve been wanting. I spent the time I had to spend for myself and got my life together, made peace with Mike, now, all that was left was to get my man back.
Eventually, I walked inside the house and Steven and my parents were talking and they were gushing over him. They looked at me when I walked in the kitchen, and stood beside Steven. “I’ll probably wash up and then go out to dinner with Bonnie. Then she said she was going to check my tux for tomorrow and make sure that I, and I quote, ‘look stupid and embarrass’ her.” He rolled his eyes at me with a grin, before walking through the back door to the guest house.
I smiled at him before walking to the fridge to get a bottle of water to chug. My mind was a mess and all I was thinking about was that kiss. It very well left me speechless but also wondering what was going to happen next, if anything did.
The next night, my parents had already left for the Christmas party, but Steven and I were still at the house getting ready. He was the one actually ready, looking perfect in his Tom Ford all black tuxedo. I on the other hand was using him to help me put on my dress. I had my makeup done, my shoes on, my hair was done; the only thing left was the dress. I had managed to get a little help from Anna Wintour with this baby, and she helped me get a gorgeous, hand-crafted, red Alaïa gown for the Christmas party.
"Okay, you're good." Steven said as he zipped me up and twirled me around to look at me, finally. His mouth dropped open as did his eyes and he looked at me with a giant smile on his face. "Jesus Christ," He gasped. "Bonnie." He said slowly, that million dollar smile showing.
"What? Do I look funny?" I asked, frowning as I looked in the mirror.
"God, no. Hell no, fuck no." He insisted, coming from behind me and wrapped his arms around me. "You look fucking incredible, baby. Flawless." He kissed my neck before going to unplug his phone on my charger. He walked back to me then asked if I was ready because the car service was here, as they just sent him a text.
I nodded, grabbing my clutch from his hands and stopping him before we went downstairs. I took his hand then leaned up to kiss him, hoping I didn't get lipstick on him. He smiled then held my hand as we walked down the stairs and he helped me into the car, and off we were to the Black, Bohn, & Perez Holiday Party.
When we had walked in, everyone was gawking at the both of us, asking who we were wearing and that we looked stunning. My mom had actual tears in her eyes from my dress, but I just said she was being dramatic. Nicole and Cam came too, and she was my train holder for the night, even though I told her not too but she said, "A dress this gorgeous needs it's own assistant." So, she took it upon herself to do so.
Throughout the night, the bubbly was being sipped as was the Scotch and liquor and everyone was having a wonderful time. My dad and Black went up to give their annual 'Holiday Monologue' as they so stupidly called it, and even Steven went up there on behalf of the East Coast branch and whatnot; cracking jokes and thanking everyone for a great year.
Toward the end of the night, Steven asked me if I wanted to go out on the balcony of the Four Seasons courtyard, I accepted. It was a beautiful night and the stars were shining brightly and the moon was just a gorgeous. The courtyard was beautifully lit with white Christmas lights and there was red and white roses decorated everywhere. It was an unusually placed setup, one that I hadn't ever seen before, but it was gorgeous.
Steven kept looking at me, holding my hand tightly. "You know I meant it when I told you that I loved you, right? Since we first met, I don't know, there was just something insanely intriguing about you. Because you were different, something else. Independent, intelligent, and in love with fashion. I loved that about you." He paused, beginning to slow dance with me to the soft music playing loudly from the ballroom. "We were never easy, never simple. But, you know I love a challenge. I lost you twice."
"Twice because of me." I said with a frown, ignoring his little speech and feeling awful.
"No, that's not the point. The point is that I learned a lot from those two experiences. I learned that I will fight for you until the end of time. Because I love you. Because you and I, princess, were meant to spend the rest of our lives together."
"Oh yeah?" I asked with a smirk, smiling wide and doe-eyed.
"Yup." He grinned slyly, "You're stuck with me, Perez. And I think that's the best bet anyway. I think we fill each other's voids, you know? We compliment one another. You don't find that just anywhere. But we did. So, why not move forward with it?"
"And what, get back together?" I asked, hope filling my heart the longer I looked into his eyes.
Steven shook his head, turning me opposite from him and telling me to close my eyes. I felt him step away, wondering what the hell he was on about, then he said, "Open up and turn around."
I chuckled before turning around, "You're not in your undies now are you?" But once I turned around, it wasn't Steven in his skivvies, it was Steven down on one knee, a blue velvet box opened revealing the most gorgeous, largest, and insane Lorraine Shwartz ring that I'd ever seen.
My mouth dropped opened and my heart was beating out of my chest, but he looked calm. He looked like he had been ready to do this for centuries. "I know you always wanted this big engagement in Central Park or in Paris or something, but why not here in Los Angeles, where we met? In this wonderful moment in our lives where we are both succeeding? Bonnie Perez," He began, taking my hand, "Will you marry me?"
Tears filled my eyes and I nodded, crying my eyes out. He smiled brightly and placed the ring on my left ring finger, then kissed me with passion coursing through his veins bringing them onto my lips. "I love you, I love you, I love you forever."
"I love you too, Steven."
To my dismay, I thought we were alone, but a moment later, my parents, Nicole and Cam, all came out from inside cheering and happy and crying. I was engaged. I was engaged to Steven Bohn; the love of my life.
Three days into our engagement, Steven and I ran into Mike, Alysha, and baby Georgia on Melrose Avenue. You can tell that Steven was a little uneasy but then he saw Mike's reaction when he saw the engagement ring. "Holy shit! You two are engaged! Congratulations! See Bon? I told you it was gonna happen. I'm really happy for the both of you." He said, his genuine words dripping off of him and a huge smile on his face.
"You're right, you said it." I smiled, at him and his family, and how they all looked so in love with one another.
"Thanks, man. I appreciate that." Steven held out his hand and Mike shook it, giving one another a nod. There was a respect there. One where you could see that the other one had moved on and that was peaceful.
"Well, we gotta go. One more Christmas present to get. It was nice seeing you two. And, congratulations." Alysha said smiling sweetly, pushing the stroller with their gorgeous baby girl in it.
We waved goodbye to them and then walked away, enjoying the next couple of days that we had in LA before we went back to New York City. I was sort of dying to show Anna my ring because she was going to pass out at the sight. But this was my life now, this is what it all meant to me. And the best part was, that I got to spend it with Steven.
A little over a year ago, I lost everything. I lost Steven, Mike, my friends, the respect of my parents and all I had going for me was a new job in a new city in a new state. I've always heard that you're never going to find it if you're looking for it. I stopped looking and started living for me, and this is what I got; eternal bliss.
"You can spend your whole life looking for something, something that might be right in front of your eyes, but you'll be looking for something you'll never find."
A lot of growing up can happen when you toss yourself in a situation that drastically changes your life. Moving to a new city with a new job can change that and make you born again— a rise of the Phoenix, if you will. That’s what happened to me. One year ago, Steven came to my house in Los Angeles and asked me one question, the biggest question that I’d ever been asked.
“—Who do you want?” He asked his baby blue eyes lighting up my heart.
I looked at his features, all of the hurt I’d caused him, but all of the love, apparent on his face. I touched it gently, running my fingers through his hair. “I want the best for you, but all, I want the best for me, Steven. I love you so much, but I need to focus on myself right now. And you focus on you. How does that sound?”
You could tell the answer shocked him, but it was one that didn’t necessarily break him; it was one that was open-ended. That eased him a little bit. And with that, he gave me a kiss on the cheek and a smile, before leaving my apartment.
But, that was a year ago. That was when I decided I was going to grab the bull by the horns, and make him go in my direction. That’s what mattered to me. Nicole and I had a year under our belts working for Vogue and were ecstatic at all that’d happened to us. Two months after we came out here, Nicole told me that Cam told her that Mike and Alysha got married; two months later, she announced that she was four months pregnant; Nic went to the baby shower. Steven continued to run the business from New York, winning high-profile cases and getting the Black and Perez namesake changed to Black, Bohn, & Perez; and two successful branches bicoastal— all in one year.Tonight was the Vogue Holiday Celebration and it was going to be stock piled with designers, celebrities, and friends of the company. I was living out my night in a gorgeous Balmain dress on this fabulous night just a few weeks before Christmas; where I would be going home to LA and spending it with my family. All was well and the champagne was flowing nicely as we were all enjoying one another’s company.
Nicole and I were chatting with Tonne Goodman and Anna Wintour about how wonderful the December issue was going to be and how this was the first issue where Nicole, Tonne, and I styled every single shoot in that magazine for that month. Anna was going on and on about how happy she was with Nicole and I and how we’ve brightened up the company since joining a year ago; she was giving her thanks and it was making me feel all fuzzy inside.
Tonne had walked off and Anna was talking more when she smiled suddenly, “Ah, Mr. Bohn, I’m glad you could make it.” She said, walking behind me and giving no one other than Steven a kiss on the cheek and a hug. He was a wearing a gorgeously tailored black Tom Ford suit and his famous smile.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world. You never let me live it down for missing last year.” He joked making her laugh, walking in our little circle.
“Oh Steven, have you met Nicole and Bonnie? They are my darling stylists for the magazine; I just don’t know what I’d do without them.” Anna said, her short blonde bob moving with her.
“I don’t believe I have. I’m Steven Bohn.” He said, shaking my hand, smirking wildly.
“Bonnie Perez, nice to meet you Steven. This is Nicole.” I gestured over to Nicole to went along with the joke and shot him a smile and shook his hand. I looked over to Anna, “He’s a cutie, where did you find this one?”
“Oh, he’s the lawyer for Vogue. I believe he’s single, too.” She winked at me before smiling and walking away to mingle with other personnel. Nicole had looked at Steven and chuckled, walking off to find Cam, leaving he and I alone.
“You look beautiful, Perez.” He grinned, checking out my outfit.
“Thank you, it’s Balmain.” I grinned widely. “You’re looking extra handsome in that Tom Ford tux, Bohn.” I returned the compliment and noticed that Anna was talking to Tonne and looking at us; I guess she was informing Anna that Steven and I were quite familiar with one another— then she made eye-contact with me and gestured me to go for it. Nicole and I had grown close to Anna over the last year, and she knew of this heartache I had but never with who. “Single, huh?”
He laughed, his nose scrunching up. “Thank you.” It was quiet for a moment, Steven kicking his feet a little bit. “And yeah, been really single since you. Can you believe we live in the same city and we don’t see each other?”
I smiled softly, “Strange, isn’t it? We need to change that. Oh, and I’ve been meaning to ask you if you’re going to the Christmas party back in LA?”
He nodded, “Yeah, we’re all going. Company is paying for flights, believe it or not. Are you?” His blue eyes studied me and his smile never left him. He was looking really, really, good.
I nodded, sipping on my champagne. “Yes sir, I am. I get back home the day before and am going to be there until the 26th. One week in LA, what can go wrong?”
“You got a date for that thing?” He asked curiously, sipping on his champagne, shooting me a glance at the table to sit at. I decided to take him to my table, since no one was at it, and we could chat there. We both sat, him first taking my chair out for me before he sat himself. “So, back to my question— you got a date for the holiday party?”
I moved my hair behind my ear, revealing the diamond earrings he had gotten me years earlier, and he smiled. “No, I don’t. I’ve been pretty single, as well. But, it’s been really nice, actually. It’s been necessary for me, I think.”
He nodded, smirking to himself as he finished up his drink. “God, you look so beautiful, Bonnie. I mean that. And you’re also wearing my favorite perfume. You knew I was going to be here or something? So you could drive me nuts?”
I grinned, laughing a little. “Miss Dior is a popular scent, Bohn. And no, I didn’t actually. I’ve managed to only run into you twice since we broke up and I moved out here. Ain’t that something?”
“I almost didn’t come. But, Anna’s been hounding me about it since I missed last year.” Things went silent again between us and he looked at me for a while— a smile never leaving. “No more pink?” He asked about my hair.
Shaking my head, I laughed at the same time. “Oh no, no. I got rid of that. I was obviously having a crisis and everyone knew that so they just let it happen. I’m thankful for that.”
He laughed along with me and then even sat with me at the table the rest of the night, engulfed in champagne and conversations; it was beyond incredible to be beside him again. He was telling me all of what’s happened in his life since we last spoke and how my dad always asks him if he sees me around, but Steven always says no. Anna came up to us multiple times and said she’s never seen a better dressed duo and we told her that we used to get that all the time; and then she asked how we really met, Steven going into the entire thing. It felt good.
After the party, Steven and I bailed out on it and he decided to walk me home as it was not a far trek back. We were guided by the street lamps and the light of the full moon back to the front steps of my place. “Want me to walk you up?” He asked, noticing the time and how late it was on the gold Rolex he wore on his left wrist; gifted to him by my father.
I shook my head, “No, I’m fine. Thank you, though. You gonna walk home by yourself?” I asked curiously, noticing the time myself on my phone, not seeing an Uber or cab around.
He chuckled, “I don’t live far, Bonnie. I’ll be fine.” He looked at the ground for a moment before looking at me again. “I’m going to call you tomorrow, okay? We should get lunch or dinner or something. You know, if you want?”
I nodded, smiling and biting my lip a little, “I’d like that. I really would.”
He lit up like a firework, a bright smile giving away his excitement. “Great. I’ll let you know when I get home okay?” He bent down and kissed my cheek before opening the door for me and letting me inside. He turned around and walked away and I went my own way up to my apartment. Tonight sure was interesting, and tomorrow would be the same. Everything usually was here in New York.
"New York, New York, big city of dreams. But, everything in New York ain't always what it seems."
THREE WEEKS LATER | DECEMBER; LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
It was always hilarious to me how in the same country, the weather could be polar opposites. In New York, it was cold and snowy, but here in Los Angeles, it was sunshine and a cool breeze; just like I liked it. I did kind of miss sipping on hot coffees most of the time, though. Here I was at my favorite place, Nipsy’s, sitting outside in the sun waiting for Nicole and Cam to arrive. They’ve been back in California for two days, I arrived this morning.
Moments later, three bodies popped up in front of me, taking me away from my December issues of Vogue and Harpar’s Bazaar, where I eyed Nicole, Cam, and Mike Fuentes; whom I hadn’t spoken too or seen since the night I had cheated on Steven. They all sat down, a server coming and taking their coffee orders and everyone looked at me. “Hey Bonnie.” Mike said with a genuine smile, a cutoff tee still being a staple in his wardrobe.
“Hi Mike,” I said, returning the friendly smile, noticing that he was wearing his wedding ring. I never saw him as a wear-the-wedding-ring type of fellow. That earned my respect, actually. “How’s dad life going?”
He grinned, raising his eyebrows. “Oh, it’s amazing!” He went into story after story of his daughter, named Georgia, who was obsessed with oldies music and loved to sing and smash on the drums. He showed us countless photos of her and her bouncy brown curls. She was a year old, but had such a personality and I could tell that Mike was endlessly happy. Cam and him started talking about this photoshoot that his wife Alysha did, and he lit up when he was talking about her. That was incredible to me. I wasn’t sure if she ever found out about when he cheated on her, but I feel like if she did, she wouldn’t have cared because they were going to be parents.
We all talked about New York when Mike asked about it and he asked how it was at Vogue, and that Vic saw our names in the magazine so he cut it out and framed it. Nicole and I spoke to Vic often, and his girlfriend, too. It was nice to catch up with an old friend and not have drama. Some time later, Nic and Cam went inside to get muffins, and I was sitting outside with Mike. “How’s Steven doing?” He asked curiously, sipping on his iced concoction.
I smiled, “He’s doing fine. I actually ran into him a few weeks ago. He should be landing back today, actually.”
“You ran into him?” He asked, shocked that Steven and I hadn’t had much contact while in New York.
Nodding, I answered, softly. “We had broken up after— you know. But, a few weeks after that, he came down and asked me who I really, really wanted; you or him. And, I chose myself. I saw him at the Vogue Holiday Party a few weeks ago. And we hung out often after that.”
He smiled, tapping his fingers on the lid of his cup, as usual. “You two will get back together. I know it.”
“Why do you say that?” I raised an eyebrow his way.
“Bonnie, you cheated on the dude with me, and he still went and was willing to get back together with you. The guy loves you more than anything on the planet— you two are going to get back together, if not now, someday.” And with that, Nicole and Cam came back outside and the conversation averted onto other subjects before we all went our separate ways. I went back to my parents house, where I was staying in my childhood bedroom again, which was weird as hell, but relaxing in a way. Mike had added me back on all social media, and then posted a photo of himself with Cam, Nicole, and I saying, “Great times catching up with old friends. Well, I guess this is growing up.”
Later that night, I had gotten in my car and drove to LAX, hoping I was at the right side where Steven would be. We weren’t together or anything, but I did promise him he could be my date to this Christmas shindig the firm was having. Only if he dressed in another tuxedo for me since he looked so damn handsome the night of my holiday party at work. After about fifteen minutes of waiting, he called me and told me he had landed and that he would be heading to the front. I told him I was in my old baby, and when he came out, he laughed a little.
He opened the backseat and tossed his luggage in there before coming to the passenger seat and greeting me with a surprise kiss on my cheek. “Hey, Bon. I’m loving the old school vehicle you got going on.” He chuckled, his thumb on my cheek, making me smile widely.
“How vintage Bonnie and Steven is this car, though?” I asked jokingly, knowing this was the car I had when he and I were first together many moons ago. “How was your flight?” I questioned, pulling out of the front and attempted to cut through traffic to get on the road.
“It was good. I slept during the whole thing because I took some sleeping pill. That’s the most sleep I’ve gotten in ages, it seems.” He admitted, adjusting his seat so he could be more comfortable and also putting his sunglasses on. “How come I forgot it’s hot as shit here?”
“That’s what I said! I landed wearing a coat, Steven. I was wearing a coat in Los Angeles in December; everyone was looking at me like I was absolutely insane.” He was quiet, fidgeting with with the pocket on his jacket. “Are you hungry or something? I feel like I shouldn’t let this outfit go to waste on the airport.” I said, lightly riding the break because we were approaching a red light, then looking down at my orange suede skirt that I was wearing and then looking over at Steven for a response; I felt like I’d been rambling on and on.
He smiled sweetly, looking over at me and placing his hand on my thigh. “You look absolutely beautiful, Bonnie. Just, gorgeous.” He was looking me in my eyes and it was making me nervous, I wasn’t sure what he was doing. Soon enough he was face-to-face with me and planet a soft, yet passionate kiss onto my lips. “You are so beautiful.” He said onto my lips before kissing them again and smiling.
I was shook to my core and his actions that were small, yet huge at the same time. What was he doing? We weren’t together or anything, we never even talked about it. Not that I didn’t want it, but I didn’t know where his head was at. Well, I didn’t know until now. Our gaze was broken by the car honking behind me, urging me to go already. I jumped then continued driving, Steven’s hand still on my thigh as I drove. I forgot what I was even talking about before, to be honest.
Soon enough, we were at my parent’s house since he was using the guest house, and refused to stay at his own parent’s house for the sake of his father, but we were parked in the driveway for some time just sitting there. “What was that for?” I finally asked as he was beginning to climb out of the car.
“Because, I love you.” He said with a nervous smile before grabbing his bags and walking to the front door, going inside. I sat there, in a daze but secretly knowing that’s what I’ve been wanting. I spent the time I had to spend for myself and got my life together, made peace with Mike, now, all that was left was to get my man back.
Eventually, I walked inside the house and Steven and my parents were talking and they were gushing over him. They looked at me when I walked in the kitchen, and stood beside Steven. “I’ll probably wash up and then go out to dinner with Bonnie. Then she said she was going to check my tux for tomorrow and make sure that I, and I quote, ‘look stupid and embarrass’ her.” He rolled his eyes at me with a grin, before walking through the back door to the guest house.
I smiled at him before walking to the fridge to get a bottle of water to chug. My mind was a mess and all I was thinking about was that kiss. It very well left me speechless but also wondering what was going to happen next, if anything did.
The next night, my parents had already left for the Christmas party, but Steven and I were still at the house getting ready. He was the one actually ready, looking perfect in his Tom Ford all black tuxedo. I on the other hand was using him to help me put on my dress. I had my makeup done, my shoes on, my hair was done; the only thing left was the dress. I had managed to get a little help from Anna Wintour with this baby, and she helped me get a gorgeous, hand-crafted, red Alaïa gown for the Christmas party.
"Okay, you're good." Steven said as he zipped me up and twirled me around to look at me, finally. His mouth dropped open as did his eyes and he looked at me with a giant smile on his face. "Jesus Christ," He gasped. "Bonnie." He said slowly, that million dollar smile showing.
"What? Do I look funny?" I asked, frowning as I looked in the mirror.
"God, no. Hell no, fuck no." He insisted, coming from behind me and wrapped his arms around me. "You look fucking incredible, baby. Flawless." He kissed my neck before going to unplug his phone on my charger. He walked back to me then asked if I was ready because the car service was here, as they just sent him a text.
I nodded, grabbing my clutch from his hands and stopping him before we went downstairs. I took his hand then leaned up to kiss him, hoping I didn't get lipstick on him. He smiled then held my hand as we walked down the stairs and he helped me into the car, and off we were to the Black, Bohn, & Perez Holiday Party.
When we had walked in, everyone was gawking at the both of us, asking who we were wearing and that we looked stunning. My mom had actual tears in her eyes from my dress, but I just said she was being dramatic. Nicole and Cam came too, and she was my train holder for the night, even though I told her not too but she said, "A dress this gorgeous needs it's own assistant." So, she took it upon herself to do so.
Throughout the night, the bubbly was being sipped as was the Scotch and liquor and everyone was having a wonderful time. My dad and Black went up to give their annual 'Holiday Monologue' as they so stupidly called it, and even Steven went up there on behalf of the East Coast branch and whatnot; cracking jokes and thanking everyone for a great year.
Toward the end of the night, Steven asked me if I wanted to go out on the balcony of the Four Seasons courtyard, I accepted. It was a beautiful night and the stars were shining brightly and the moon was just a gorgeous. The courtyard was beautifully lit with white Christmas lights and there was red and white roses decorated everywhere. It was an unusually placed setup, one that I hadn't ever seen before, but it was gorgeous.
Steven kept looking at me, holding my hand tightly. "You know I meant it when I told you that I loved you, right? Since we first met, I don't know, there was just something insanely intriguing about you. Because you were different, something else. Independent, intelligent, and in love with fashion. I loved that about you." He paused, beginning to slow dance with me to the soft music playing loudly from the ballroom. "We were never easy, never simple. But, you know I love a challenge. I lost you twice."
"Twice because of me." I said with a frown, ignoring his little speech and feeling awful.
"No, that's not the point. The point is that I learned a lot from those two experiences. I learned that I will fight for you until the end of time. Because I love you. Because you and I, princess, were meant to spend the rest of our lives together."
"Oh yeah?" I asked with a smirk, smiling wide and doe-eyed.
"Yup." He grinned slyly, "You're stuck with me, Perez. And I think that's the best bet anyway. I think we fill each other's voids, you know? We compliment one another. You don't find that just anywhere. But we did. So, why not move forward with it?"
"And what, get back together?" I asked, hope filling my heart the longer I looked into his eyes.
Steven shook his head, turning me opposite from him and telling me to close my eyes. I felt him step away, wondering what the hell he was on about, then he said, "Open up and turn around."
I chuckled before turning around, "You're not in your undies now are you?" But once I turned around, it wasn't Steven in his skivvies, it was Steven down on one knee, a blue velvet box opened revealing the most gorgeous, largest, and insane Lorraine Shwartz ring that I'd ever seen.
My mouth dropped opened and my heart was beating out of my chest, but he looked calm. He looked like he had been ready to do this for centuries. "I know you always wanted this big engagement in Central Park or in Paris or something, but why not here in Los Angeles, where we met? In this wonderful moment in our lives where we are both succeeding? Bonnie Perez," He began, taking my hand, "Will you marry me?"
Tears filled my eyes and I nodded, crying my eyes out. He smiled brightly and placed the ring on my left ring finger, then kissed me with passion coursing through his veins bringing them onto my lips. "I love you, I love you, I love you forever."
"I love you too, Steven."
To my dismay, I thought we were alone, but a moment later, my parents, Nicole and Cam, all came out from inside cheering and happy and crying. I was engaged. I was engaged to Steven Bohn; the love of my life.
Three days into our engagement, Steven and I ran into Mike, Alysha, and baby Georgia on Melrose Avenue. You can tell that Steven was a little uneasy but then he saw Mike's reaction when he saw the engagement ring. "Holy shit! You two are engaged! Congratulations! See Bon? I told you it was gonna happen. I'm really happy for the both of you." He said, his genuine words dripping off of him and a huge smile on his face.
"You're right, you said it." I smiled, at him and his family, and how they all looked so in love with one another.
"Thanks, man. I appreciate that." Steven held out his hand and Mike shook it, giving one another a nod. There was a respect there. One where you could see that the other one had moved on and that was peaceful.
"Well, we gotta go. One more Christmas present to get. It was nice seeing you two. And, congratulations." Alysha said smiling sweetly, pushing the stroller with their gorgeous baby girl in it.
We waved goodbye to them and then walked away, enjoying the next couple of days that we had in LA before we went back to New York City. I was sort of dying to show Anna my ring because she was going to pass out at the sight. But this was my life now, this is what it all meant to me. And the best part was, that I got to spend it with Steven.
A little over a year ago, I lost everything. I lost Steven, Mike, my friends, the respect of my parents and all I had going for me was a new job in a new city in a new state. I've always heard that you're never going to find it if you're looking for it. I stopped looking and started living for me, and this is what I got; eternal bliss.
"You can spend your whole life looking for something, something that might be right in front of your eyes, but you'll be looking for something you'll never find."
Notes
And so it is...
I always mentioned that this wasn't going to be your typical story. It's not always going to be happy endings and butterflies for the PTV boys. Which brings us to the ever-complicated relationship that was Bonnie and Mike. As someone who has had a similar experience as Bonnie, I took this story as an opportunity to bring light to the fact that not everything goes as you think it will.
Bonnie and Mike seemed perfect for one another from the get go; two people who who so different from each other that it brought them together; but ultimately, that same reason tore them apart. Mike was never able to get comfortable with the fact that Bonnie was a rich girl, and she came from a rich family. Bonnie was never able to accept that fact that Mike, was in love with her almost immediately, and was never able to accept that Mike maybe just was someone who was temporary.
During the course of the heartache, Bonnie rediscovered love with her old flame, Steven, whom had changed throughout their separation and Mike found love with Alysha; once a rebound and now his wife and the mother of his child. Life happened for the two of them, and I think that's a lesson in itself. To love someone no matter their differences, but to also remain with an open heart.
We learned that Mike and Bonnie can absolutely be friends and be happy for each other, and that's the main point of the story I was trying to make. Because once you meet an important person, you try and keep them in your life.
Anyway, I'm not sure if I will have another PTV-based story in me or not, but I did promise to finish this one before the year ended. Thank you for reading this story, and all of my stories as a matter of fact, that had a lot of twists and turns and seemed like it was never going to end, and for supporting no matter what.
As always, leave your questions, comments, and concerns.
Again, thank you for taking time out of your day to escape a little in my horribly written words. It means so much.
Until next time and the next story, if there is one, I wish you all a happy holidays and a happy new year. :) May 2017 be a little more sane for all of our sake.
XO,
Amber
@rebel_girl: I hope you enjoyed it :)
12/9/16