Beyond the Streets of Boyle Heights

By Leopoldo Sermeno Castro

The story is about a couple who are childhood sweethearts growing up in Boyle Heights. After an accident separates them, they find each other while serving in the military service in Japan. They suffer a few problems while in service but with the strength of their love, they are able to overcome these obstacles. They solidify their relationship by getting married and help to unite a community.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 31, 2019
• ISBN: 9781728335384

Leopoldo Sermeno Castro

This is Leopoldo’s third novel that he has written. His first book was titled, “State Street Orphans, An Untold Story” is the memoir of his life growing up in East Los Angeles. His second book, “The Mago Lives on Pomeroy Street” is the love story of a young couple growing up in Boyle Heights. His third book, “Beyond the Streets of Boyle Heights” is the continuing saga of the young couple. He grew up in Boyle Heights, so his writing is influenced by his life in this area. He served in the Marine Corps and was stationed in Iwakuni, Japan. He is a retired teacher who lives in Clovis, California.

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Copyright © 2019 Leopoldo Sermeno Castro. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Published by AuthorHouse   12/18/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3539-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3538-4 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Beyond the Streets of Boyle Heights

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Experiencing his second trip across the country for the Corps, Boni had to first attend the Mechanized Supply Administration School at Moffett Point, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He spent forty long days there in supply school then another six months with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. He was now ready to report to staging at Camp Pendleton to prepare for travel overseas. He was told that he had been assigned to the First Marine Airwing at the Marine Corps Air Station in Danang, South Vietnam.

Coming home was great, but at the same time, he needed to find out about the disturbing news that Andi had relayed to him on the phone when they had last spoken a week ago. It seems that her neighbor, Aurora, has a friend who lives in Baltimore and attends Johns Hopkins University Medical School. This was the university that he was informed Katherine was attending now, as a medical student.

As a personal favor, Andi had asked Aurora to contact her college friend to see if she could provide some updated information on Katherine. Aurora’s friend, Myra, had called back informing Aurora that Katherine had left medical school and had married a Spanish intern then moved to Virginia to help him become an American citizen.

This news was both devastating and beyond belief for Boni. He could no longer think about Katherine as the person that he was going to spend the rest of his life with. Finding her was the only reason for him to move forward with anything in his life. They had promised each other that they would marry when they were older. They had been together as a couple since they were thirteen, but in love with each other since they were the beautiful age of ten.

He called Andi, Can you pick me up because I’m coming home on a three-day pass? I’m flying in on Southwest, and it’s getting into LAX around four pm. She responded, I can do that, but I have to first tell you that Aurora’s friend, Myra, has made a huge mistake, and things aren’t as we were told! I need to tell you what happened!

Andi relayed the conversation, Aurora cried, I have news for him about Katherine. She didn’t get married, but is in Newport News, Rhode Island, at the Officer’s Candidate School for the Navy. My friend Myra said that there were two girls from Spain but one of them married a Spanish intern, and the other one left school for a Naval Program and that was Katherine. What a mess; we gave Boni the wrong information!"

After she had learned of this, Andi had reassured him, I am checking everything out, so I hope to have more information for you when I pick you up at the airport. He told her, Remember that I’m in civvies and not a uniform. The flight was delayed for almost two hours in Dallas which filled her with relief. He wanted to find her first, so she wouldn’t get too impatient waiting for him with the two kids.

When he exited the aircraft, he kept looking around for her, until he finally found her as she was trying to catch up with Roger who had spotted Boni and was running quickly towards him. She was holding Petra’s hand because she was unable to catch up with Roger. He ran right into Boni’s arms, so when she saw Boni, she picked up Petra and tried to run towards him. Roger yelled, Hello Daddy! Boni responded with, Hey Mijo, you sure are getting bigger!

She looked very beautiful in her short skirt dark blue business suit. She was in great shape after having the twins, but since she was a workaholic, she could never find enough time to workout, yet had a tremendous figure. She was a sight to behold, like his Katherine, and he adored her more because of it. Her legs were not long like Katherine’s, but none the less, very beautiful. She had on her oversized sunglasses, but they did not hide her beauty, and she certainly turned quite a few heads with her golden blonde hair. She looked wonderful at the ripe age of twenty-four!

It was amazing how much she greatly reminded him of Katherine and how much he missed her. He placed Roger down as he saw Andi approaching him. When she reached him, she placed Petra down next to Roger as she hugged him and gave him a tremendous kiss that almost knocked him down. He kissed her back then hugged her as best he could without stepping on Petra who had gotten in between them. At three years old, she was already very independent which caused Andi to sometimes struggle with her. Andi was very fortunate that Roger was there to help her because Petra simply adored him and would do whatever he told her to do.

Breathlessly, she whispered into his ear, I thought that I had missed you, Mi Luz. I am so glad that you were delayed because I had a million things to do before I got here. I would never have forgiven myself for that mistake! I kept calling the airlines to check on your flight, but I was relieved when they told me your flight was delayed in Dallas for two hours. Petra yelled, Mommy! so Boni picked her up to kiss her as she hugged his neck. He told her, Mija, you’re very pretty like your mama! When she finally let him go, he placed Petra down, then took Andi into his arms to hug and kiss her again.

Without thinking, he reached for her nalgas to squeezed them. Andi squirmed and grabbed his hands to remove them, saying, Easy, big boy! He exclaimed, I haven’t seen you in almost a year, so you know, I have missed you! Andi laughed, I’ve missed you too, but I don’t want to send the kids mixed messages! He laughed, You’re acting like we don’t have two children between us. Next, you’re going to tell me that I can’t hold your hand either! I’m sorry, but you just remind me so much of Katherine, and I really miss her also!

Andi responded, Boni, you just kind of surprised me because you’ve never done that before and in front of the kids; see how Roger and Petra are staring at us. They’ve never seen their mother and father kiss before. We must have surprised them, too. He told her, You’re sounding like my old-fashioned abuelita, but come on, let’s go get my bag, so we can get out of here!

He had Roger help him carry his small carry-on bag which made Roger smile. His other hand reached for Andi’s hand which she reluctantly, let him hold as she held on to Petra’s hand. They had to wait for his bag to arrive, so before it did, the kids were hugging his legs which made Andi grin happily. When the bag finally showed up, he grabbed it, then they walked out to Andi’s car which was under the vast covered parking lot. The ride from the airport to Andi’s condo was a short one, but she knew that he wanted to hear the news, when he finally asked her, Can you tell me about Katherine now, or do you want to keep me in suspense forever?

She giggled, I have good news and bad news, if we want to call it that! The good news is that she isn’t married to some Spanish intern. She no longer attends the medical school at Johns Hopkins University but is in the Navy as an officer in a program for medical personnel. The bad news is that she got into a situation with one of her instructors who tried to take advantage of her, but she fought him off. I spoke with my father just yesterday, and he assured me that Katie will have no more problems with that university, and the instructor will be severely dealt with. One last surprise, she is now a streaked Honey Blonde! Boni let out a huge sigh, That’s different news!

They pulled into the garage then parked right next to his VW which he whistled at because it had a new red cover on it. She handed him the keys, Take the cover off and start it up, Mi Luz. He got out then pulled off the cover where it was now a beautiful metallic, candy apple red with new chrome rims and tires. She got out of her car then came over to stand next to him. He leaned over to kiss her which caught her by surprise, Wow, she looks beautiful; thank you! Andi asked What do mean she? Your car’s a female? He laughed, Yeah, you never heard of Bonnie and Boni? I wanted to paint her blue like Bonnie Blue, but I love the color you picked!

Andi raised her hands up, I had nothing to do with picking the color; that was all Roger’s choice! He turned to him, Mijo, that’s a great color you picked for my car! I love it; thank you! She giggled, Open it and start it, but be careful of the upholstery, it’s still kind of stiff! He opened the door then got in and was blinded by the new crimson-red-yellow interior. He started up the car which turned over automatically and purred like a kitten! He turned it off and got out to hug and kiss her, You certainly have been busy with my car. Thank you, it looks beautiful! She smiled, You deserve it!

Automatically, he grabbed his duffel bag to put it in the trunk which was also beautifully painted black. He looked at her, Are there any more surprises with this car? Thank you for taking care of it and making it look so wonderful! I am very happy with what you did to it, but you should not have gone to so much trouble and expense! She smiled, It was a labor of love, Mi Luz! She hugged him tightly and kissed him which he thought about caressing her nalgas again but didn’t want another episode like earlier.

When they got to the condo door, she opened the door then he gave Roger an airplane ride as Andi told him, He needs to go into his high chair in the kitchen then you can come back for Petra because she wants an airplane ride also! You must remember that there are two of them, and you can’t favor one over the other! He came back for Petra to take her the kitchen. She loved the airplane ride, her first ever, like Roger.

Andi went to her bedroom, so he went over to see what she was doing. She was standing at her bedroom window looking out as she was crying. He walked up behind her to start rubbing her neck muscles which were extremely tight. Her skin was very soft to his touch. She turned around to face him then said, I’m not sure what happen today, but this is supposed to be a happy occasion with you being here with us. Why do I feel that we had our first disagreement, and I don’t like the way I feel right now?

Boni told her, It was all my fault, I just got carried away when I saw how much you look like Katherine. I apologize, but I’ve really missed you, and I can’t treat you like Katherine because you are not her! Andi gave him a half smile then told him, I need to feed the kids, but you can rest if you want! She went into the kitchen to feed the kids, then came back into her bedroom to see what he was doing. He decided to rest a little, so he had just closed his eyes but had fallen asleep. She kissed his forehead then covered him with the bed cover. She went to sleep in the kids’ room that evening.

The next morning, she woke him, then smiled at him and said, You should take a shower; I found some of your clothes that you left here that you can change into. He went into the shower to take the cobwebs off and used the Lavender scented soap that reminded him of Katherine and her beautiful scent. After his shower, he went to check on the kids and give them a kiss. They were sleeping peacefully, so he sat down on the bed in their room to keep looking at them.

Not knowing where he had gone, Andi found him then walked in to sit next to him, Mi Luz, can you hug me because I don’t know what to do when you are mad at me? I can’t remember you ever being mad at me! He told her, I’m not mad at you, but I am concerned that you are embarrassed of me with our kids. How are they ever going to know who I am, if I can’t touch you in front of them? I can’t be your husband, but I certainly am their father. You have always known this, but you don’t seem to want to believe it, now that I’m here!

Reaching for her, he took her into his arms as he gave her a tight hug which left her breathless. As they separated, she cried, "Boni, I wish to apologize to you for my immature behavior yesterday. I am a single parent, but I know that is going to be my life. I don’t want a man to come in here and change my life. I wasn’t thinking when the kids were looking at us as you kissed me and caressed my derriere. I wasn’t ready for that, so I didn’t react to it as I should have. You have more right to touch me than anyone else, and believe me, your touch was wonderful! You have my permission to touch me whenever you want!

I owe my life to you for giving me life in my children. I know that you will never marry me, so I am not asking for that, but I don’t want to spend my time with you trying to figure out who you are with, me or Katie. He reminded her, I am still searching for Katherine, but I don’t want you feel that you have to compete with her for my love. We have a special bond because of our children, but Katherine is the love of my life, and we both know that will never change! I just have a tough time getting over the fact that you resemble her so much, but that is something that I have to deal with it!"

Andi said, I have to make a couple of important calls this morning then I’m all yours for the rest of the day. What would you like to do today, Mi Luz? He answered, I need to go home and visit my familia. I’ll be back in a few hours but, I would like to take the kids to the Pier. What do you think? She giggled, Yes, that would be fun because we’ve never been there! She asked, By the way, when are you going to tell your parents about going overseas? He sighed, That’s why I need to go home because I need to tell them what’s happening with me, or else I would spend the entire time here with you and the kids!

She told him, I need to shower, so if the kids wake up, can you feed them? What time is it? he asked her, I don’t remember where I left my watch last night. She yelled from the bathroom, I’ve found your watch, it’s eight o’clock. This is a nice watch, who gave it to you? He yelled back to her, The twenty-four-year old mother of my two children for my eighteenth birthday! She laughed, I knew it looked familiar!"

Roger woke up then sat up in his bed. Petra was fast asleep, so he took Roger into the kitchen, found the cereal to pour into his favorite Batman bowl then poured the milk for his cereal. He almost woke Petra up, but she was sleeping like a beautiful little cherub, so he didn’t want to disrupt her. Andi walked into the kitchen in her robe with her hair up in a towel. She looked very radiant then said, I’m impressed with you, Mi Luz. You found everything that you needed to feed Roger, and he’s eating peacefully. Do you want some coffee? He told her, Sorry, but I don’t drink coffee, so you can go ahead and make some for yourself.

While she started loading her coffee maker, he walked up behind her to kiss her neck and smell her wonderful scent. She turned around to ask him, What are you doing? He smiled, I was just saying good morning to your soft sweet neck and enjoying your wonderful scent. Did I do something wrong; so now we’re going to have another disagreement so early in the morning?

Not wanting to have another misunderstanding, she said, I’m sorry Mi Luz, I’m just not used to having a man in my life who kisses my neck and compliments my shampoo scent! I did tell you that you can touch me whenever you want! I just don’t know if I can get used to that because it may take me a while. No, you did not do anything wrong, and we are not having any more disagreements! Is that understood? He smiled at her, I read you loud and clear, Ms. Chavez!

In one swift move, she reached into her robe pocket to pull out her brush as she shook off the towel from her head. Before she realized it, he took the towel from her and started drying her hair. He then took the brush from her and started brushing her hair which caused her to start moaning softly. She remembered the last time he had brushed her hair then given her a tremendous massage. She hadn’t felt this great since then and was really enjoying the experience. He could feel her body responding to the hair brushing, so he moved quickly on with this procedure.

Since they had their backs to Roger, she felt safe in doing this while they were standing in the kitchen. She started breathing heavily, so she placed her hand on the wall to steady herself as he continued to brush her hair. Suddenly, Roger startled her by singing, Mommy, I finished eating my cereal!

She very calmly told him, Okay Mijo, I want you to go brush your teeth and wash your face, so I can dress you, in a few minutes. Please be very quiet, so you don’t wake up your sister. Roger, very obediently, went into his room, but he first stopped to hug Boni’s leg. Andi looked at him, Are you sure you have to leave in a couple of days? You are having quite an effect on our son, and I am enjoying it, as I enjoyed your touching my nalgas. You were just driving me crazy when you were brushing my hair.

Andi separated herself from him and went to get Petra. She came back with her then asked, Can you feed Petra while I make my phone calls and keep Roger with you, so he doesn’t make any noise while I am on the phone? These kids are really enjoying you! Thank you, Mi Luz!

Petra came into his arms quickly, so he took her into the kitchen to sit her in her high-chair as he located her cereal for her breakfast. Roger came back and started drawing pictures about his Mommy and Daddy at the table very quietly. Boni was still watching Petra eat when Andi came in dressed for the day. She had her hair up in a ponytail with a white tank top and matching shorts. Her white sandals made him think about Katherine who dressed just like Andi.

Boni was looking at her feet when she caught him doing so, so she told him, These sandals belong to Katie; I’m sorry I’ll take them off! He told her, No, you would have to take everything off because you look just like her right now! I will just have to get used to the fact that you are sisters that resemble each other. You look as beautiful as I remember her! Their bodies were not the same, but they could pass for twins.

As he grabbed a banana to eat, he looked out through the window to the wonderful looking day when she came up behind him to hug him and said, I’m sorry about my reminding you of her. I am not trying to replace her because she is the love of your life, and you should always keep her there, safe within your big heart. I know that it is hard for you being here with me because I am not her, and I don’t want to compete with her for your love.

He responded, I don’t need you to be in love with me, but I can’t lie to you that the love I have for you is special. A great big smile flashed across her face when he said that. Andi got very serious, "You are a part of our lives, so I feel that this is a big start for us with you here for the next few days. I cherish them because I know that our children are loving your presence. You get to know them, and they get to know you! I’ve had a difficult life, but I would not give it a second thought when I look at these two beautiful children that you helped create for me. I don’t want another man to confuse my children about who their real father is.

Looking at his watch, Boni announced, I should go, so that I can come back in a few hours. She walked up to hug him then whispered in his ear, When I see how the kids are reacting to your presence, it brings great joy to my heart. I’m not a happy person normally, but you have brought a tremendous amount of pleasure and love into my life.

Immediately, he kissed her then reached for her sweet nalgas which made her shudder, so she grabbed his nalgas. She said, I don’t know what your obsession is with grabbing my tush, but yours is nice and firm like the rest of your body. He laughed at her, You don’t know, you’ve never grabbed my nalgas! She laughed, I may have to start because they feel so hard and strong. He told her, Yours are wonderful and tight, so it is a pleasure to caress them."

She got serious and told him, "I apologize for freaking out last night and this morning, but this is all new to me. I’ve told you before that I am an obsessive-compulsive person that must have everything done in a certain fashion. I’m twenty-four, so I haven’t had a man in my life for five years, except for you. You have never been around a woman quite like me, I can guarantee that! I just want you to know how much this means to me that you have decided to be with us.

I’m glad that we talked this morning to get things out in the open. I realize that this situation is not easy for either of us. I know you weren’t ready for fatherhood this weekend, but you are doing a fantastic job with Roger. I can also sense a difference in Petra when you are around her, and she sees you with Roger! Feeling very relieved, he told her, I’m just glad that we straighten out the touching and feeling situation because you are far too sexy and beautiful for me to be around you and not be able to touch you. I feel like a little boy in a candy store! She laughed, You can touch this candy all you want, Mi Luz!"

They all walked to the door as he hugged and kissed Roger and Petra then kissed Andi who grabbed his hands to place them on her derriere. Boni remarked, Bellissima, I must be in heaven! She giggled, I’ve always loved your touch, Mi Luz! Please come back as soon as you can because we will miss you!

The trip from Santa Monica to Boyle Heights did not take him too long. When he was two blocks away from home, he saw a young lady who looked very familiar. She was very eye-catching in her painted-on jeans and tight blouse. Suddenly, he realized that this was China with long wavy hair and was carrying a gallon of milk. He pulled over to the curve and yelled at her, Looking good, Prima! He got out of the car and walked around towards her.

China quickly turned with a look of hate in her eyes and ready to swing the gallon container in her hand. When she saw who it was, she screamed, Boni, what are you doing here? She immediately hugged and kissed him deeply. For the first time in his life, he allowed her to have her way with him. She tried to swallow his tongue, and he enjoyed the sweetness and fullness of her body as she pressed into him.

When she finally released him, she screamed, That’s a great looking car, as he opened the door for her. She got in, then asked, Is this really your car? He laughed at her, Yes, it’s mine, but Andi has taken care of it for me! China asked him, Why didn’t you tell me that you were coming home? You didn’t say anything in your last letter! How long are you here for? Boni, I have really missed you! He told her, I don’t have much time, but I am going overseas, and I hope to be back in a year. I have really missed you also, Prima! He drove them home as she went to her apartment, and he went to go see his parents.

Lori was looking out of the window, when she saw China get out of a red VW and told her mother about it, Here comes China with the milk, and she just got out of a shining red VW. The guy walked up to Tia Rosalia’s apartment. Bea answered, They’re not home, so he’ll be disappointed! China entered the apartment, so Bea quickly asked her, Who’s the guy who brought you home? What does he want with your Tia? China excitedly laughed, That’s Boni, he’s home, before he goes overseas! He’s coming to see you because I guess my Tia isn’t home!

Boni knocked on the door, so Bea quickly went to answer it and got very excited when she saw him, Ay Mijo, I didn’t recognize you! Come in and give you’re Tia a hug! Ay, you have grown so much! Boni hugged his Tia Bea then laughed as Lori ran up him and hugged him as tight as she could. She resembled China very much, but China had a special aura of beauty about her. Lori was now twenty-one, and a beauty in her own right, but China was in a league of her own. Lori told him, You look like Martin when he first came home, but he didn’t have a car like yours! I want a ride in it, Primo!

China stepped up in front of her, Let him rest; he just got here! He asked, Tia, do you know where my parents are? Bea smiled, I’m pretty sure that they went shopping at the market. They should be back in a couple of hours. He looked at China and she smiled at him, so he told his Tia Bea, I have to run an errand, so I’ll be back in a couple of hours. China, do you want to help me?

Just as Lori started to say something, China gave her a glare which made her stop. China told her mother, I’ll see you in a couple of hours and don’t forget, Boni likes tacos and chorizo beans! She grabbed his hand and pulled him outside. Bea looked at Lori, What’s up with that? Lori giggled, Don’t look at me; maybe she’s not over him yet. They’ve been writing each other, you know! Bea sighed, I need to take care of this!

As they were walking to his car, hand-in hand, Bea thought to herself as she watched out the window, I’m going to have to talk with those two. Things have not changed for China about him, and he might just have forgotten about his huera. She watched as they got into the car where Boni held the door open for her and closed it after she got in. She thought to herself, He still has good manners, my Boni! Once he got in, China leaned over to kiss him, much to Bea’s horror! She thought to herself, I will take care of this myself. China still listens to me, and Boni better listen to me or I’ll give him a knuckle sandwich!" she laughed to herself about that.

When they were seated in the car, China leaned over to kiss him, so he kissed her back. When they parted, she asked, How come you’re not pushing me away anymore, Primo? He started the car, then as he was driving, he smiled, There are a few reasons, but the biggest one is that you have really grown into a beautiful young woman! Much more beautiful than when you were younger. I love the way you have let your hair grow and just run wild. If you weren’t my cousin, we might be making music together because you are definitely a fine heina!

China laughed, Boy, you don’t know how long I’ve waited for you to say some words like that regarding us! I’m loving this! Where exactly are we going, Primo? He started telling her, I have a plan of going overseas and coming back, but sometimes things don’t work out like you want them to! She laughed, You don’t have to tell me about that! He continued, I want you to know all about my business, so there are no conflicts in case I don’t make it back! She shrieked, Please quit saying that, but I get the gist of what you are doing. You are coming back and let’s leave it at that!

Boni took a deep breath, You remember when you saw Andrea at the Woman’s Clinic when you were in the hospital? She answered, Yes, of course. I told you about that because it seemed strange at the time. He told her about how he gave her his sperm and that the twins are his children. All she could say was, Damn! He told her about Katherine being in the Navy as a Medical Officer after having a problem at Johns Hopkins University. He finished by telling her, "We’re going to Andrea’s condo because I want you see the kids for yourself and see how she is acting towards me!

I want another person to witness what I am going through right now, so that in the future, it is not just my word against the world. I trust you, as I trust Katherine, but she is not here to advise me. Tell me about what’s been going with you because you look wonderful, Prima! Not liking the things that Boni had said to her, China reached for his hand to hold it then said, Boni, my heart really hurts for you, to see you in such pain.

You remember I went into the covent, but the nuns wanted me to kneel and pray all day. That really wasn’t for me, so when you went into the service last year, I knew I had to do something on my own to get back into shape. I’ve been working out four hours a day as I learned Judo and Kick Boxing, so this body is in great shape now. I’m attending Cal State LA and majoring in Elementary Education, so I hope to be a teacher one day. I wanted that to be a surprise for you because you want to be a teacher!"

He smiled at her, Boy, you sure know how to keep a secret, so I want you to keep my secret until I find Katherine and figure some things out. They got off the freeway in Santa Monica and China saw the tall building that they were entering, so she asked, Does Andrea live here? Boni pulled the car into the garage then went into the parking space next to Andi’s beautiful Mercedes Benz. China whistled, I guess this is where Andrea lives!

As they took the elevator up to Andrea’s condo, Boni told her, I just want you to know that we’re going to the Pier. Have you ever been to the Pier? China giggled, Don’t you remember, the Westside is out of my world! When they reached the condo, Boni knocked on the door and Andi opened the door by hugging him and giving him a tremendous kiss. When they parted, she noticed China standing behind him and shrieked, China, is that you? You have certainly grown up since I last saw you. You are lovely! They hugged one another like old friends.

Andi looked at Boni, Why didn’t you tell me that you were bringing China back with you? He smiled, I didn’t think about it, until I saw how she looks more beautiful even now, and I knew you would want to see her. She’s only been to the Westside once in her life, so I thought she might like hanging out with us today. China smiled, I love your place and your children are adorable! She looked at Roger who had come to stand next to Boni and Petra who was hiding behind Andrea. Roger resembled Boni immensely, and Petra had some of his features but took after Andrea.

Not wanting to be rude, Andrea spoke, I don’t mean to rush us out, but this place gets crowded on the weekends, and I need to get the twins back for their naps. On their way out, Andi grabbed her camera. The Pier was two blocks away, so they didn’t have very far to go. Roger immediately held Boni’s hand as Petra choose to hold Andi’s and China’s hands as Andi pushed the double stroller for the trip back home.

It was interesting to watch the ladies and kids become mesmerized by the amusement park. When they saw the Ferris Wheel, Andi reacted, Oh my, that really is a big ride; I don’t think that the kids can ride that huge ride! Boni laughed, Are you talking about them or you? When was the last time that you rode the Ferris Wheel? She shrieked, I’ve never ridden it. My father didn’t believe in amusement parks! He told her, It’s time to break the cycle, don’t you think? She didn’t answer, but he could tell by the expression on her face that she wasn’t too convinced about riding the Ferris Wheel, so it would be last ride for the day.

This being their first time was very special for them, but they didn’t know anything about buying tickets and how to get on the rides. Boni was the wiser one because he had been there before with Katherine but had not ridden any rides. He figured it out, so their first stop was the small airplane rides where they had to buy tickets to get on. He purchased ten tickets before Andi could fish her money out of her purse. He told her, You’re buying lunch which will be cheap junk food! He took Roger to the ride as she took Petra and got them on. Petra cried out, Mommy, come with me! Boni reassured her, This ride is only for little kids!

Roger was really laughing and smiling as he went around and around in the small airplane. Petra did not share Roger’s enjoyment of the ride. Due to the ride being so short, Roger asked, Daddy, can I go again? Boni looked over at Petra and asked her, Do you want to go again, Mija? She shook her head, no, as Andi hurried over to take her off. As the ride attendant came over, Boni asked her, Can he ride again? She looked around, We’re not supposed to allow that, but since there’s nobody waiting in line, he’s okay.

The young lady strapped him in, but when Boni tried to hand her the ticket, she said, Give it to me after his next ride. He’s so cute and adorable. How old is he? Boni answered, He’s almost four, going on ten! She giggled, He going to be a heartbreaker, like his father! He laughed, Words like that can get you into trouble! He stood by the gate to watch Roger enjoy himself.

When the ride was over, Boni walked over to the young lady to hand her a ticket. She responded with a gigantic smile. Roger and Boni walked back to Andi and China when China asked him, Primo, were you just flirting with that pretty young lady? He told them the entire conversation then added, You know I have a thing for Latinas, so she’s much too American and young for me. Andi laughed, My Mijo’s too young to be thinking about girls. He told her, You better get used to it because he starts school next year and all the little girls will be after him. Just remember who said it first!

Roger wanted to keep riding the airplanes, but they needed to move on to other rides which included: the Teacups, Racing Cars, Flying Dragons, Bumpo Cars, and the Ferris Wheel. When Boni and Roger rode the Racing Cars, China decided to take the bull by the horns. She made her move, even though she was a bit afraid and intimidated by Andrea’s status as an attorney and being older than her.

She started by telling Andrea, When I was in the hospital after I came out of the coma, I saw you go into the Women’s Clinic. I thought it was strange for you to be there, so I told Boni, but I don’t know if he ever told you about it. Do you mind telling me why you were there? You don’t have to if you don’t want to! It’s really none of my business, and I never should have said anything!

After taking a deep breath, Andi spoke, I have a friend who’s a fertility doctor in the clinic there that I went to go see because she helped me by implanting the semen that Boni gave me. I asked him to donate his sperm to me because I wanted children. I don’t know what he’s told you, but he said he would help me have children. China told her, He has not told me anything about you and your kids, but I can see the resemblance in Roger, totally, and some in Petra!

As she leaned over to hug China, she whispered, I’ve been carrying this with me for over four years now, and I’m glad to finally let it out. I know I must tell Katie, but I don’t know when that will be. China told her, Your secret is safe with me! Katherine is my best friend, but you are her sister, so you must do what you think is best. She will never hear anything from me, nor will I ever mention it to Boni!

The Bumper Cars Ride was next, and everyone got on it. China drove solo as Boni took Petra with him, and Andi took Roger with her. Boni taught her to get away from everyone and hugged her real tight when someone tried to crash them. She was timid at first but then got the hang of it and loved the ride. The other rides were not very exciting, and the Shooting Gallery was shut down for repairs which kind of bummed out Roger. He wanted to cry, I want to get a giant Panda like the one in our room that belongs to my Tia Katherine. Boni took Roger’s hand then told him, Your Tia is a very good shot, so she will teach you how to shoot like her!

Andi smiled, I’ve kept that bear because of her. I want to give it back to her one day! Her eyes got watery, but she continued, I know she’s my little sister, but I love her so much! She’s not here to defend herself, but you can do that for her. I don’t want her to be the person that I must look up to because it should be the reverse where she looks up to me!

They decided to eat hot dogs until Roger spotted corn dogs and, of course, Petra wanted one also. Boni told Andi, We have a meal waiting for us at home, so a snack will do! China didn’t want a hot dog; she wanted a cotton candy which she shared with everyone. Andi wasn’t too happy about the twins eating so much sugar but didn’t make a fuss about it.

Boni mentioned the last two tickets he had left for the Ferris Wheel. Andrea rolled her eyes and was about to say, no, when Boni laughed at her, Senorita Chavez, you mean to tell me that you will not accompany your son on a ride for his pleasure? Look at that gorgeous little face and tell me that you are going to say no to him! Roger looked up at her with his beautiful emerald green eyes, Please Mommy, one last time! She looked at him then smiled, Okay Mijo, I don’t want to ruin this day for you, plus you look so much like your father right now, and I can never say no to him!

The Ferris Wheel was towards the entrance, so as they walked, Boni asked her, Can I have your camera, please? These pictures are going to be the best because they are photos of the history that you are making. The first time for you on the Ferris Wheel! She laughed nervously then whispered to him, I hope I don’t get sick! He laughed at her, Don’t jinx yourself by saying that; it’s bad luck, Senorita Chavez! She giggled, It’s too late, I’ve already said it, and I can’t take it back!

She did not seem very happy, but she was a trooper and was determined to not let Roger down. As she boarded the ride, Boni yelled at her, Don’t look down or rock the boat! When she came by, he snapped a picture of her wonderful smiling face, but when the wheel stopped at the top, she lost it. She started screaming, Please get me down, right now! China ran over to the gentleman operating the ride to ask him if he could let that screaming woman at the top, off the ride. He nodded, yes, then brought them down and let them off when they reached the bottom.

Boni quickly took Petra close to the entrance to help Andi as she emerged from the ride. She hugged him then whispered, I didn’t know that I was so afraid of heights! He asked her, Don’t you live on the fifth floor of a condo building? She shrieked, Yes, but it doesn’t keep moving up and down, plus rocking forward and backwards! I think I’m going to have my monthly visitor! Roger asked, Can we do that again, it was fun except for my Mommy screaming! Andi smiled weakly, Not today Mijo; some other time when your Daddy will go with you! Come on, we need to get you guys home. She put the twins in their stroller.

The twins had enough enjoyment for one day, so they headed back to the condo. Out of the blue, Boni asked, How did you meet your husband? I don’t mean to pry, but it’s just that I know so little about you, and I’ve known you for close to ten years. She giggled, "You’re not prying, I thought that David was the guy. I met him when I was at USC and he got me a job with his father’s firm. We moved in together then eloped to Vegas to get married. Boy, that was a huge mistake, but it worked out for the best because now I have my own practice, a condo in Santa Monica, and money in the bank.

I took him to the cleaners by taking half of his hidden money, the condo, and making him buy me the office location for my present practice. Half of that money, I tied into the T-bill account you have with the reward money and the money from the school district lawsuit. I knew you wouldn’t take it from me because that’s the way you are! So Boni, what’s your story? I would like to hear about all your girlfriends, Magic Man! China laughed, So would I! He told them, I don’t know what you’ve heard, but Katherine is my first and only girlfriend. The other ladies were just girls who wanted massages. China was my first real massage." China beamed a huge smile upon hearing this.

Blanca was the one who I massaged back to health after she was beaten, nearly raped, and killed. Katherine and Nina were next where Nina had a seizure which freaked me out. If Katherine hadn’t been there, we might have lost her. You are the last of the Chavez sisters who received one of my massages. You know all my clients that you set up for me.

Wondering out loud, Andi asked, How did you save the young lady from being raped and killed? He told them, We were in her garage’s storage room when some loaded cholos broke the door down, so I ran to get the police to come save her before they could rape her. The police shot two of the three guys who had a knife and gun on them at the time. I nursed her back to health by helping her with her physical therapy and pain management. That was a huge task!

As they got to the condo, Petra started to nod-out in the stroller, and Roger was looking very tired. Boni got him out of the stroller to carry him to his bed. Andi carried Petra as China pushed the stroller into the condo. They would usually sleep for a couple of hours or more. China went out to the balcony to look at the beautiful Pacific Ocean which could be seen from Andi’s condo.

Boni walked up behind her to hug her then whispered, Have you seen enough? China whispered back, Yes, I’ve seen enough, and we should go home to be with real familia, not this pretend stuff! She placed her arm around him to hug him, so he did the same as Andi came out of the twins’ bedroom. She noticed them hugging but did not say anything. Boni told her, We’re going to leave because my familia has prepared a dinner for me. Andi asked, Will I see you tomorrow? He answered, Yes, I need you to take me back to the base in the evening, if you can.

Andi hugged and kissed China then did the same with Boni but hugged him a little tighter and longer which China noticed. As they were going down on the elevator, he asked her, Well, do you have any suggestions for me? She leaned forward to hug him, as she whispered in his ear, I know you will figure something out, but first you must find Katherine because she will help you with this situation. Only she can help you with this! He leaned back to look at her, "You’re right;