“Leigh, what do you think?” Emma was asking. “Would these photograph well in that afternoon light?”
I blinked, refocusing. “Sorry, what?”
“The delphinium. Would the blue pop or wash out?”
“It’ll pop. The blue should be stunning against the gold of the setting sun.” I adjusted my camera, taking a test shot. “See? It’s perfect.”
Emma smiled, but there was something knowing in her expression. Something that made my stomach flip.
Had she noticed? Could she tell?
“These all look wonderful,” Delaney was saying. “I think the wildflower mix is perfect for the centerpieces. And the bouquet with those cream roses mixed in? That’s exactly what I pictured.”
“Excellent.” Emma made notes on her pad. “I’ll prepare full mockups for you to approve before we finalize the order. And Leigh, I’ll make sure you have samples for the engagement shoot too.”
“The engagement shoot,” Trace said. “I almost forgot. We still need to schedule that.”
“Next weekend?” Delaney suggested. “Before things get too crazy?”
“Works for me.” Trace looked at me. “That work for you?”
“Yeah. I’ll re-scout the locations this week and let you know the plan with a list of our best options. Text me what time what works best for you and I’ll make sure to check the light levels at the right time of day.”
“Dex can help,” Trace said easily. Too easily. “He showed you around before, right?”
Dex’s eyes met mine across the table. “Yeah. If Leigh needs help.”
“I might,” I said carefully. “Depends on the locations we decide on. But we shouldn’t need too much equipment, I can edit the shots digitally.”
The air felt charged, heavy with everything we weren’t saying.
Emma was watching us with that same knowing look.
Trace checked his watch. “Damn. Delaney, we need to head out. We’re supposed to meet with that potential chef in twenty minutes.”
“Already? It’s been an hour?” Delaney looked surprised. “Time flies.”
They gathered their things, thanked Emma, and headed for the door. Trace paused, looking back at us.
“You two coming?”
“I want to get a few more detail shots,” I said. “For the album. Different lighting angles.”
“I can help,” Emma assured him. “Don’t worry.”
After they left, the shop felt suddenly very quiet.
Emma was arranging stems in a vase, humming softly. Dex was still standing by the counter, while I was pretending to adjust my camera settings.
None of us moved.
Then Emma spoke, not looking up from her flowers.
“So. You two?”
I froze. “What?”
“You and Dex.” She glanced up, smiling. “You’re together.”
