But Véronique was more than a model. She became my muse and trusted collaborator. She was highly creative and bold in her sense of style and visual appeal. We discussed ideas constantly and booked our own sessions in order to bring those ideas to life. The images were amazing, and our rapport only intensified.
While it was unthinkable at first, we began to acknowledge and embrace the chemistry that enabled us to work together so smoothly. In our sessions we explored more and more intimate concepts. The passion was difficult to ignore. One evening while we were setting up a shot, she held me and wouldn't let go until morning.
It was intoxicating, dreamlike, having the privilege of photographing this goddess by day and spending hours in her arms at night. But some dreams aren't built to last.
The problems seemed like annoyances at first. As her modeling career took off, Véronique travelled frequently. Jealousy crept in on both sides. She would call me in tears when she knew that I was working with another model, and I spent nights at the bar wondered how faithful she was being on the road.
Our increasingly brief moments together were punctuated with bitter arguments. It can be exciting to fight and make up from time to time. But when turbulence becomes the norm in a relationship, it's tiresome and demoralizing. My drinking intensified, and she complained about that as well.
It was devastating, but after a year of constant turmoil, we agreed to part ways. She prospered as a model. She was such an incredible talent. Eventually, she met and married Peter. They opened their salon, and it became one of the most celebrated beauty establishments in the city.
I functioned, but my drinking occasionally spiraled out of control. If it hadn't been for a handful of steadfast friends like Manny and his very patient wife, I probably would have ended up on the street or in a box.
I didn't bother Véronique. She was doing well and didn't need a troll from the past to hang on and remind her of those difficult times. She wasn't the one who told me about her falling out with Allegro; I heard about that through other sources.
I don't know what happened, although I suspect that Peter did or said something stupid. He's arrogant, and he can come across as a tool at times. But I'm sure that it bothered her to be dropped without explanation. She works so hard to be the best.
If we had the chance to get her back in there, I would want to take that chance. I think that she wants it, too.
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