“See you, Leah.” Seth waved back and pivoted toward his truck.
Leah marched to her car and slid inside the driver’s seat. She gripped the steering wheel. First Cole, then Seth, and not to mention Tyler Gage asked her out. I’m supposed to be taking a break.
****
Cole loaded the images onto his computer and named the film “Leah’s photos.” He gazed at her face as it flashed on the screen. She was a natural in front of the camera. Her confidence radiated from the photos. His favorite was the picture of her on the park bench in her sundress.
With her hands on either side of her, she shined in front of him. Then the wind picked up, rustling through the trees. Leah’s loose curls floated in the breeze and her smooth skin glowed in the natural light. Her expression softened and her poise stunned him.
The corners of Cole’s mouth lifted. He rolled his shoulders back and refocused. He picked the best shots he believed showed Leah’s unique style and saved them to another folder. He then checked his watch, noting the late hour. After locking up his studio, Cole sauntered to his truck.
On the way home, he stopped by the sunflower field. He didn’t count on it becoming one of his favorite spots, but it was the right place to unwind after a long day. Cole put his hands behind his head as he stared out the windshield. The dark sky, lit up by a zillion, sparkled… like Leah’s eyes.
Cole let out a deep breath. He pulled his cell from his pocket. Was it too late to call her? He could send her an update on her photos. It would be an excuse to hear her sweet voice. His forehead furrowed. With her sharing with him about her dating hiatus, Leah wasn’t available. Still, his thumb itched above the call button. She answered on the third ring.
“Hello?” She sounded breathless.
“Are you okay? Need CPR?” Cole joked.
She laughed. “No, I’m moving some things around.”
“Such as?”
“Downsizing. I’m giving more stuff away.”
Cole raised an eyebrow. “More stuff?”
“I had to get rid of some things that reminded me of my ex. Too many memories.” She sighed. “Sorry. I really don’t know why I’m telling you all this.”
“You can tell me anything. Remember that.”
“Good to know.”
“Have a good day today?”
“That may be another reason I’m organizing. I’m trying to get my mind off the photos.”
Cole chuckled. “They’re co
ming along, Leah. You looked great. When I’m finished, you can pick out the ones you like and send those to your web designer.”
“Okay. I trust you. Ugh! I need a moving crew.”
He laughed. “Don’t hurt yourself. Do I need to stop by?”
“No, I got it, but thank you.”
“Have you ridden a horse yet?”
She giggled. “I did, but I’m glad Will was there. Molly was sweet.”
“The horse?”
“Yeah, and she’s so cute.”
“Sounds like you made a new friend. What’s next on your list?”
“You’re not making fun of me, are you?”