“It’s all you; you’re a dream to photograph.” He bumps me with his shoulder and I chuckle at his excitement.
“I want to buy some of these, is that possible?”
“Yes, although I will only accept lunch as payment.” He winks.
“Joey, I can’t. Mason?—”
“You can’t have lunch with a friend?”
“No, I can, I just… I don’t want to lead you on.”
“You’ve made it very clear, Nina. Lunch? As friends. You can have a copy of the lot.” He pops a thick brow in question.
“Sold.” I grin. “I’d be a fool not to.”
“Good! I can’t do lunch today, but I’m free tomorrow?” he tells me.
“As much as I want to, I need to get serious and start looking for a place to rent. I’ve been putting it off because I miss the studio so much. I know it’s only been a few days, but I need to move on.”
“I’d say that’s normal.”
“Can I call you next week? Arrange something for then?”
“Sure, but I’m holding the pictures hostage until I get my lunch date.”
“Not a date,” I remind him.
He holds up his hands. “Not a date.”
I’m just pulling on my gym tights when Scarlet calls. I’ve had a manic morning meeting with Joey and then coffee with Maggie to look at a potential studio. I’m excited to view it tomorrow.
“Hey, Scar.”
“Hey girl, what are you up to? I feel like we should be unemployed losers together these days.”
I chuckle down the phone. “Speak for yourself. Did you get the forms from the university yet?”
“Yes, I have, actually. But I won’t be starting until next September. I want to be here for Dad.”
No matter how much I try with Scarlet, she won’t pursue going back to uni until she knows her dad’s health is better. I just worry about what will happen if Anthony is still waiting for a transplant next year. Will she put it off again?
“I know, sorry. I won’t bring it up again—not unless you want to talk about it. I’m just about to go to the gym.”
“Ugh, boring. I’m trying to strip wallpaper. I was looking for a willing accomplice.”
“I don’t think I’d be much help, Scar. I told you I’m horrific at DIY.”
“It’s stripping wallpaper, you’ll do great. I will cook you tea after to say thanks.”
“I don’t even?—”
“Leaving now to pick you up! Are you at Mason’s?”
“No.” I laugh. “I’m staying at the girls’ apartment.”
“What? Why?”
“I’ll send you the address,” I say, hanging up and rolling my eyes, knowing she will want all the details.
