Camera Chemistry (Love Through a Lens, #0.5)

by Chelsea Curto

“Your conscience doesn’t allow you to keep a library book for longer than the allotted hold time. Do you honestly think I’d come to you if I needed to cover up a murder?”

When was the last time anyone looked at me that way? Stars in their eyes, hands frantically clawing for me, not a care in the damn world about what’s happening around them? A tornado could come by and they wouldn’t realize it, too enamored with the sight in front of them.

One night forever changing the course of my life.

even if the nights get lonely, they’re infinitely better than being with someone who isn’t head over heels in love with me.

Aiden grins. The smile is slightly lopsided, lifting higher on the right side of his mouth than the left. And, I realize seconds later, it’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.

I scoot closer to her. As I do, I smell ripe oranges. It’s intoxicating. Fresh. Sweet. When I subtly inhale and try to savor the scent, I realize I’m totally and completely fucked.

I want her to be aware of what I lack in height, I make up for in other departments. The power to lift her if I wanted to. Onto a counter. A table. Against a wall. She can take her fucking pick.

I’ve never been treated like I’m someone’s sole focus. Their highest priority and most sought-after prized possession. I’ve always craved that feeling of consumption.

“Maggie,” he says. The tone is reserved for repenting sinners, making a deal with a deity for eternal salvation. And he’s using it on me. “You are so beautiful.”

It’s soul-crushing, nearly suffocating, but who the fuck needs oxygen anyway when I can survive solely on the taste of her lips against mine?

“I’m glad I did the shoot. It meant meeting you.”

What one does in their free time doesn’t impact their reliability in their career.

My life was boring until I met you. Now all I see are colors, and light, and your beautiful, perfect face.