Page 46 of Enchanted

My cheeks flushed but I refused to look away. “It was merely a professional observation. Your muscles are impressive. For photography purposes, obviously.”

“Obviously,” he said solemnly, but there was mischief twinkling in his eyes again. “Do you need me covered in oil? For photography purposes.”

“Not today.” Although him oiled up while using this equipment could make for some interesting shots…

Some interesting spank bank material, you mean.

I scowled internally. That was absolutely not what I meant. I didn’t need that. I had Dave.

Who last had sex with you, when?

That didn’t matter either. Our relationship was about more than physical intimacy. It was about companionship. Support. Friendship. Love.

And when did Dave last show you any of those?

I swallowed hard as I realised I had no comeback. Fuck me, I wasn’t just arguing with myself, I was losing the argument.

Way to go, Ethan.

“Okay, I’m guessing the vibe for today is gym-bro?” I said, bringing my attention back to the task in hand. “Sam said something about building up a collection of different themes?”

“Yup.” Rami nodded. “We’ve got some costumes for after. A firefighter, soldier, and a baseball player.”

“Baseball?”

“Most of Sam’s authors are American,” Rami explained. “He wants to get shots that will appeal to various markets.”

“Sam wasn’t wrong when he said you were in demand. I’m flattered that you’ve chosen me for this, especially with your busy schedule.”

“Well, I’m happy to make time for you.”

I cleared my throat, hiding how hard those words had hit me. When was the last time anyone had made time for me? Okay, so Rami didn’t mean in a personal context, but still. It made me feel less…lonely. Just for a moment.

“I’m not sure we can get through all of those outfits today,” I said, pulling out my camera and choosing a lens. “Do you think Sam will be up to telling us what to prioritise?”

“Ah, about that.” Rami gave me a sheepish grin. “He realised the same thing this morning. He was going to call you about scheduling a couple more shoots, but he didn’t get a chance before he started not feeling well.”

My heart skipped a beat at the thought of the paycheque that could be heading my way. “Are you serious?”

“Sure.” Rami shrugged. “I had a couple of cancellations this week, so if you can fit me in, I can be yours for the next three days.”

Three days.

My mouth dried out as I frantically tallied up how much money he was talking about. Fuck. It’d buy me some time to find other clients.

Life truly was being good to me these days. The cynical part of my mind whispered that something awful must be waiting around the corner, but you know what? I’d already been through awful and survived.

I wasn’t going to let the fear of it happening again taint any joy for me.

“I’m free,” I squeaked before clearing my throat. “I mean, I can make time for you too.”

Rami’s answering grin was pure sunshine. “Great. Guess we should get started.”

He whipped his shirt off and I ducked my head, pretending to fiddle with my camera. “Shirtless again?”

“Sam’s orders,” Rami said drily. “Apparently you’re not the only one who appreciates my muscles…for photography purposes.”

I sighed, keeping my eyes purposefully fixed on his face. Honestly, that wasn’t much better for my horny hindbrain. Rami was far too good-looking for anyone to resist. “You’re never going to let that go, are you?”