For I Have Always Known You

My girls were arriving any moment, and I was just about finished getting ready. This evening will surely be a night I will remember. With the final touch of lipstick, I looked myself over in the mirror and connected eyes with the spirited gaze before me. “Tonight, will be an incredible time; you are truly going to enjoy yourself, Val.” It had been a while since I had an evening out with my friends, so I was excited.

A client of mine had invited me to his annual fundraising event, and had encouraged me to bring my friends along. I’ve only lived in Seattle a short time but, I knew my cousin Myra and her two close friends would love to attend with me. To add to my excitement of the evening, my client was sending a black stretch for me. If I’m honest, I’ve never experienced this kind of treatment; so I was a little curious of his intentions, but my plan was to go along with the flow of the evening.

I had some Hor d’Oeuvres and tapas set out for the ladies. I knew cocktails would be consumed tonight and I wanted to ensure we had sustenance in our systems. I had my Veuve Clicquot out in preparation of them wanting to toast before heading out. I went to my wine glass rack and retrieved four champagne flutes for the occasion. As I placed the glasses down next to the spread, my phone rang letting me know my guests had arrived downstairs. I buzzed them in.

Making my way down the foyer, I took one last glance in the mirror hanging over my credenza. Something about the image before me seemed extraordinary; a feeling of peace and confidence consumed me just then. I knew that was confirmation that something fantastic was going to happen for me tonight. A roar of laughter was approaching coming from the hallway, followed by an enthused knock on my door. “Laaddiieeessss!!” I exclaimed as I swung the door open. They looked absolutely amazing, and I was nothing less than astounded when I saw how polished and stunning they each were. They struck a pose and hurried inside. “Ladies, our car will be here momentarily; but as we wait, let’s get some refreshments!”

I arrived a little bit early for the gala just to make sure that everything was in order, and that all was in place. This was the 6^th year for my charity event and I wanted everything to be perfect, especially since I was expecting an esteemed guest this evening. I had the amazing opportunity to work with Valerie Mendoza on her first media project the previous week. I enjoyed my time with her so much, that I wanted to see her again; so an invitation to the campaign was extended to her and her friends. I was hopeful she would accept, and I wanted her to feel comfortable. To my delight, Valerie said she would be in attendance. I informed her that I would have a car sent to escort her and her guests. Now, I was just waiting on the call from Vincent to notify that he and the precious cargo were en route.

“Artemis, the photographers have arrived and so has the media. Would you like to make a statement on the red carpet as the guests arrive?” Andrew, my public relations specialist, was thumbing through his phone as he gently ushered me toward the direction of the red carpet.

“I guess you aren’t going to take no for an answer are you, Andrew?” I could only laugh at his subtle eagerness; he was truly great and efficient at his job.

“You guessed correctly, Artemis, right this way. Now, I know we’ve briefed a bit over some discussion topics; but I think it would be great for you to mention your involvement with The Hosea Ortega project. The young boy’s family was truly grateful for your donation, and that you came to visit him in the hospital during his time there.” Andrew still had not looked up from his phone.

“Alright man, I’ll be sure to mention that.” I chuckled and made my way to the red carpet. I saw that my teammate and best friend, Ohaji Stemmons had already beat me to it. Per usual he had said something he thought was funny; and Tiffany, his wife beside him, was not amused.

“All I’m saying is, if I’m putting up a 50,000 donation; I’m just trying to see where my money is going! I better not see my mans rollin’ around here in a Tesla that I bought him!” Ohaji greeted me with a dap as I walked up. “Here’s the man of the hour right now, your ears must’ve been itching or you heard us talking about you!”

“Nah, I definitely heard your big mouth from the other side of the building and had to come clear my name. Don’t believe anything that comes out of this man’s mouth, it’s not credible.” Ohaji threw his hands up in defense and laughed. I gave Tiffany a hug as they walked off and left me to the media.

“Artemis are you excited for tonight?”

“There already seems to be a line of cars arriving can we expect a huge turn out?”

“Who are you wearing?”

“Are you accompanying anyone tonight, Artemis? Do you have a date?”

So many questions at once, but I was prepared and rehearsed. Andrew was still on his phone when I looked over for reassurance; not the most comforting man, but still great at his role. I straightened my tie and flashed a smile before I began answering questions, after all, I did put some effort into my appearance tonight and wanted to make sure they got my best angle.

“Tonight, my mission is to raise enough money for scholarships, for donations, and to provide an opportunity to send young men to college; with enough compensation to acquire the collegiate experience every athlete deserves. With the amazing turnout I am expecting, I am excited to accomplish just that. I had about, one hundred rsvp’s for tonight’s occasion. I tried to look my best tonight, and what you see here is a custom suit designed by Tom Ford himself. He’s a great friend of mine and I owed him a favor. I don’t have a date but I did invite a special someone tonight, and if it all goes well I will have a real date hopefully this Friday night.”

A series of flashes almost blinded me as the media snapped away, I dazzled them with a smile before giving them a last wave.