Lexie’s dark lashes blink in surprise behind her glasses.
It’s only a slight exaggeration, but I don’t mind. “I was telling Soph about you taking pictures of Bitsy and me the other day.”
“That’s why I stopped by.” She hands me the envelope. “I hope you like them.”
Curious, I lift the flap and draw out the photos, looking through them with Sophia hanging over my shoulder. They offer a glimpse of the woman behind the camera: observant, detailed, and with an eye for artistry, humor, and emotion.
In one, Lexie captured us in a playful moment, with me freeze-framed in laughter while Bitsy appeared to grin and preen for the camera. In another, we’re both standing on the shore, looking out at the lake. The snow seems to shimmer like a wonderland of crusted diamonds as the sun paints us golden, a testament to Lexie’s gifted talent.
“These are incredible.”
“They really are,” Sophia adds as reinforcement.
“That’s very nice of you to say.” Her cheeks turn pink. “Chaz and Bitsy were excellent subjects.”
“Thanks.” I smile at her, trying to contain my excitement that she’s here. “I’ll be sure to share them with the Vargases. Can I make you a latte?” I ask, attempting to stall her for as long as possible.
“Yes, please.” She glances at the board. “What do you suggest?”
“I can whip up something that’s not on the menu. If you trust me.”
“With coffee, of course,” she says.
She still has her guard up. I figured as much. “Grab a seat, and I’ll bring it out.”
She retrieves cash from her pocket, and I shake my head.
“My treat.”
“I don’t mind, Chaz.”
“But I do. Consider it a token of gratitude for the photos.”
“All right,” she sighs and puts the bill back in her pocket.
While Lexie finds a table, I steam the milk, and Sophia hovers. “You like her.”
“Who?”
“Very funny. Lexie.”
“I don’t know her that well yet.” I pour in a shot of espresso. “But yeah, I like her.”
“That’s good, C.” She hands me a spoon. “You deserve to focus on yourself for a change. I know how much you’ve sacrificed for me.”
“It wasn’t a sacrifice.”
“You know what I mean. I’ve been your priority.”
“You always will be.”
“I get that. But you need a life of your own.”
“You make me sound like a hermit. I get out.”
Her eyebrows raise. “When was your last date?”
Too long ago to mention.
