AllFreeNovel
Share Us
?
It has been four hours of running around, making everything perfect. I don’t think I’ve even taken a breath. But the photographer is due any minute. I don’t want to waste his time. Maddie said he is really talented. Apparently, she was lucky to book him. He has been traveling the world for the last six months and just came to town. They have been friends for years. From what she shared, he sounds like a really nice guy.
According to her, managers from other stores submit their own newsletter. I can’t believe Maddie forgot to tell me the newsletter is being submitted to corporate. Corporate chooses one newsletter to be the highlight of the quarter. Maddie said she has been trying for years with no luck. Another boutique is chosen for one reason or another. According to her, I am her lucky charm. Sales have increased, customers are happy, and everyone loves coming to work. So why wouldn’t she win this year?
“Do you need anything else?” Maddie asks.
“No. I think I got it.”
“Everything looks fantastic. Did you eat something?” She uses her more motherly voice.
“Honestly, I haven’t thought about food. I’ve been so nervous.”
“I can’t afford you passing out. Let’s get you something to eat.” Maddie winks.
“Maddie, thanks again for giving me this opportunity. I know you are taking a huge risk on me. You have no idea how much this means to me.”
“I was young once, so I get it. We all need our chance to shine. Besides, you are going to make me look good.”
“I’m the one who should be thanking you. I never imagined doing anything like this. It’s glamorous.”
“You haven’t seen anything yet.” She smiles.
We eat and chat as we wait for the photographer. I find myself getting more nervous by the minute. But it’s a good kind of nervous. I am finally doing something I love. Something that makes me happy. Maddie is about to start telling me about her latest dabble at designing when the door chimes.
“That must be Max.” She stands walking to the front of the store. I take a deep breath and follow.“Hi, Max, it's so nice to see you again.”
“Hi Maddie, it's nice to see you too. Even though I was surprised you called. I thought you were done with the newsletter business.” He says in a light laugh.
“What can I say? I am a sucker for winning. You can’t win if you don’t try. But this year, I have a secret weapon. Max, meet Ava, our newest edition to the House of Beauty.”
“Hi,” I greet, holding my hand out.
“Hi, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Ava.” He takes my hand and brings it to his lip. I take my hand back quickly. He hasn’t done anything wrong, but it doesn’t feel right. It feels too intimate. It’s like I’m cheating on Viktor. What am I saying?
“Well, thanks for coming in on short notice, Max,” Maddie adds to cover the awkwardness.
"I’m glad you called." He tells her but looks at me. He smiles. I can help but smile back.
“So, where do we start?” I quickly say, trying to make him stop looking at me.
It's been a few hours of taking pictures. The experience has been amazing. Max knows his stuff. I see why Maddie asked him to do the photoshoot.
“I think we have it all,” Max tells me.
“Are you sure? Did we get the red dress with the earrings?” I ask, thinking of everything I layout for the newsletter.
“Yes.” He smiles, and it’s infectious.
“Ok,” I say, boxing the jewelry.
“Any good places to eat around here?” On cue, my stomach growls.
“Shit, look at the time,” I say to myself.“Sorry I’ve kept you.”
“Don’t apologize. This is the most fun I’ve had in months. Why don’t I take you out to lunch to celebrate?”
“Oh, I can’t. I still have a few more hours of work.”
