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Cole stuffed his hands in his pockets. “I can’t either, but I knew it was time.”
****
Cole stared as Leah roamed his studio. She practically beamed and warmth flooded through him when they were at the park. He loved her hair, especially in the high ponytail. He even took a few silly photos to loosen her up. Leah glowed in front of the camera, and he was enjoying the time they were spending together. His hand had tingled when he took her hand leaving her store.
“I should probably change,” she said. She walked over and grabbed her bag.
Cole pointed her into the direction of his dressing rooms. “You’re not getting restless, are you?”
“A little, but I’m starting a Pilates class soon. I hear regular exercise helps with energy.”
“Pilates? Trying something new again?”
“Why not? You only live once. What about you? Did you have fun traveling in Europe?”
“I did, and it was a sight. I’ll never forget it.”
“I’m glad you’re home, Cole.”
Heat coursed through his veins. “Me too. I… I missed you, Leah.”
Her eyes sparkled, showing she approved of his comment. “I missed you too. You were a great friend.”
He felt his face fall but recovered quickly. “We should… we should get a move on the formal shots. I’ll wait for you to get ready.”
Leah headed for the dressing room, leaving Cole alone. She had said “friend.” Could he be her friend still? Were the flutters in his stomach a figment of his imagination? In the park, he had longed to brush her hair behind her ears. He ignored the tingling in his hands urging him to touch her.
“I think I’m ready,” her sweet voice said.
Cole stared at Leah’s black cocktail dress. A simple gold chain necklace fit within the V-neck, and her black platform pumps completed her look. She tossed her hair over her shoulder. Her eye makeup was smoky, bringing that much more definition to her eyes.
Cole’s breath caught in his throat. “You look…”
Leah spread her arms wide. “Are the flowy belle sleeves too much?”
“No… I meant you look… incredible.” He drew closer, and she raised her chin to meet his gaze. Cole gave in and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.
Leah gasped. Her pupils dilated. “Thank you. Well… where should I stand now?”
Cole cleared his throat. Instead of answering, he took her hand and led her to his collapsible backdrop. He made sure Leah didn’t stumble over the extension cords but had her stand in the center of the gray pine backdrop. He watched Leah fiddle with her stud earring and rested his hands on her shoulders.
“Breathe. You’re already halfway through. It’s been fun. Right?”
“It has. I have a lot on my mind.”
Cole slid his hands down her arms and stepped away. He positioned himself behind his camera. He eyed Leah standing with her hands on her hips. “This time one hand on your hip.”
Leah complied. “You’re good at this. I appreciate your help.”
“Anything for you,” he said.
He directed her through her poses. Leah beamed. They occasionally reminisced and laughed at old times as teens. By the time he took the final shot, Leah looked restless. He gave her the okay sign, signifying they finished. Leah stepped out of her heels and plopped on his lounge chair.
“I have a new respect for models.” She stretched out her legs and crossed her ankles. “That was no joke.”
Cole laughed. “It is more work than what people think.” He slid over to where she sat, and to his surprise, she scooted over for him to fit next to her. “I didn’t tire you too much did I?”
“I hope not. I have a long day tomorrow. Plus, I’m going horseback riding.”
