Lipstick & Camera Clicks

by D.J. Murphy

Growing up, my mom put her aspirations on hold because my father asked her to and then he turned into someone she didn’t recognize. He snuffed out any ambition she had until her light finally faded. She eventually walked away. Went back to school, made the right connections, and landed a high paying job.

“I’m sorry for being such a crappy friend. I thought being in a relationship meant prioritizing it over my friendships, and that was wrong.”

“I’m not mad. I just learned not to let you go again.”

“Because I think you belong with me.”

“If at any point you decide you don’t want me, tell me and I’ll stop. Not that you don’t want to ruin what we have—me. If I’m not what you want, you tell me, and I’ll back off.”

“This place is great. What is it your moms says? They put their feet in this food.” “Foot River. They put their foot in it. Lord, please don’t embarrass me in front of these people.” “It doesn’t even make sense. Why would feet make it taste good?” He frowns as he scans the menu. “Remember the first time you heard my mom say she put her foot in something and you about threw up right then and there?” “I was ready to press charges honestly, thought she was dipping her toes in my plate.”

“The next time he kisses you, remember how badly your body craves mine.”

“I thought you were going to blow your cover at the haunted house. After River and I did all that planning.”