Déja Vú

Spotlight and Shadows

I lived in Malibu, though I kept an apartment in LA because my office was here and events often pulled me in. But when I could, I escaped to Malibu to relax. Rare luxury, though—most of my time was spent hopping between flights, film sets, and endless premieres.

Tonight, I finally reach my LA apartment on Grand Avenue. Cayden and his team are setting up in the living room, and the Chanel team is in my bedroom. They'd been working on custom dresses for me and my co-star Matthew Wright for the premiere. The main shoot had been in London, and I'd been in Rome for another project while they worked. I'd been told it was a surprise.

I head straight to the bathroom for a quick shower, emerging in a coral-colored robe. I settle into Cayden's chair as he and his team work on my hair, makeup, and nails, while Kathani coordinates transportation, security, and logistics.

An hour later, I'm done—and I can't stop staring. It had been a while since I'd been dolled up like this. Cayden had left my silvery-blonde hair in long, cascading curls with extensions down to my lower back. Natasha and her team went for a bold yet elegant look: dark eyeshadow, nude lips, contoured cheeks, and perfectly manicured nude nails with a hint of lilac—matching the dress I suspected awaited me.

When I step into my bedroom, a Chanel team member reveals the gown. My breath catches. A lilac, one-shoulder mermaid dress with a sheer lace top adorned with diamonds. The slit climbs high on my thigh, a matching train trailing elegantly behind. Clear heels, silver bracelets, rose-gold drop earrings... and the after-party dress—short, lilac, off-shoulder, corset midriff with a tiny train—waited alongside accessories.

I slip into the gown and study myself in the mirror. The dress hugs my curves naturally, accentuating my shape without effort. I have to admit—I look beautiful.

"I think we'll have to hide you tonight," Kathani whispers from behind me.

"Oh, please," I wave her off. "Girl, look at these hips!"

She grabs my waist, making me blush. "I think you might finally get laid!"

"Kathani!" I shout, throwing a pillow at her. She dodges, laughing uncontrollably.

"Out," I toss another pillow—this one hits.

"Bitch," she mutters, retreating.

I shake my head, laughing as I put on my shoes and jewelry. "That was the point," she calls from the door.

Leaving my neck bare, I slip into the car with my team, my dress and after-party outfit in tow. At Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Mr. Walker helps me out of the car, nodding in approval at my gown. Kathani leans close.

"You see, old Mr. Walker can't even take his eyes off you," she whispers.

I roll my eyes, forcing a practiced smile. "Why don't you bother someone else for a change? Maybe Leon? Before I lose my shit..."

She winks and disappears into the crowd. How did I even meet this girl?

Immediately, reporters swarm. Unlike the airport, here I have to answer a few questions.

"Miss Kohen, you look beautiful tonight," a male reporter says.

"Thank you," I reply, smiling.

"Your designer?"

"Chanel graciously provided the ensemble," I answer.

"And what was it like working with Matthew Wright and Tessa Thompson?"

"It was wonderful and, honestly, a little daunting. They're both so accomplished, but also incredibly warm and welcoming. I learned a lot and made meaningful connections," I reply genuinely.