Surviving (Surrender 2)

“Okay babe, you get a night off. But guess what I found in the back of my truck today? I almost opened every box and bag, but I realized it was your honeymoon wardrobe.”

Oh shit! I forgot about my presents. “Please tell me you didn’t see anything. They’re supposed to be a surprise.”

“I was curious but I put them all in the closet.”

“Thanks, but you do realize I’m bringing something other than lingerie on our honeymoon. As a matter of fact, I need you to give me a clue where we’re going so I can pack.”

“Warm, tropical, casual. Does that help?”

“Sort of, bikini tropical or rainforest tropical?” I groan as he works on a knot in my neck.

“Is there a difference?”

“Yes! Bikini’s means beaches. Rainforest means adventure.”

“Babe, I’ve arranged for anything. We don’t have to leave the room if we don’t want.

“We’ll see.”

I lean back into him and tell him about my conversation with Amber. He’s a little hesitant but agrees to see what they have in mind. When we get out of the tub, I put on my pajamas and grab my computer. While he makes us dinner, I review the magazine website looking at the pictures for ideas of what to expect on Saturday. It almost feels normal.

*****

The photography studio is located in an old warehouse. The photographer’s name is Jewel, and she is a spunky, petite lady full of energy. She has piercings everywhere, and the ends of her pixie cut are dyed electric blue. As soon as she talks, I know I like her. She has two assistants with her today, along with a makeup and hair crew. We walk through the warehouse, which is divided into several rooms. She has each room set up with different backdrops and lighting.

Jewel takes us to a small sitting area and goes over the plan. Each guy will have separate pictures taken, but the majority will be together. I laugh out loud when she asks how the guys feel about going shirtless.

“Are you kidding? With this bunch, you could probably get them to go naked. They have no shame.” I answer her.

Her eyes light up, “In that case, will you all stand up and take off your shirts for me?”

No hesitation as each guy rips off their t-shirts and stands in front of her. They smirk at us. Jewel walks around each of them and pulls their jeans to hang on their hipbones.

While the look is sexy, I see an immediate problem. She looks at me, and I nod slightly.

“Guys, I have an idea that will rock, but it will require a little clean up.” She says matter of factly.

I chuckle, and Declan looks at me with questioning eyes. “It means she needs to manscape a bit.”

“What the fuck is manscaping?” Cooper asks.

“It’s waxing. She needs to wax your lower stomachs, maybe more.”

“What the fuck?”

“Nate don’t be a baby. Almost all women do it. We get it below our pelvis. It’s a piece of cake.”

“Guys listen, let’s start with some group shots. Then we’ll break out for the individuals. While each of you is waiting, Andrea can do a little clean up and then we can get back together for the final shots.” Jewel says. “Then I want Raven and Declan together in the back room.”

They put their shirts back on, and we follow her to the studio space. Andrea applies a little makeup and the hair stylist does some adjustments. I laugh when she tries to touch Blake’s Mohawk, and he slaps away

her hand. After an hour of group shots fully clothed, Nate and Blake go for their individual shots, and I follow Cooper and Declan to the dressing area.

Andrea explains what she is going to do and motions for Cooper to lie down on the table set up. She instructs him to pull his pants down to his hip bones and then puts her gloves on. As soon as she puts the dipstick in the wax, Cooper freaks out.

“What the fuck? Is that hot?”

“It’s warm enough to grab the hair so I can remove it by the roots. The point is to get it in one try and move to another area. It’s quick, and you’ll only feel a sting.”