“Oh, she’s not yours?”
“I’ve known her since she was a pup, but no. She’s part of the Vargas family. They’re away visiting friends.”
They must have a sense of humor as there’s nothing bitsy about a St. Bernard that, on its hind legs, would be nearly as tall as me. However, it’s nothersize that has my attention. I become acutely aware of just how big Chaz is. I don’t usually need to look up at a man. But it’s not just his height; it’s the way he fills the space.
I’ve never thought about size in an intimate way before. But standing this close, I wonder what it would feel like to have all that broad, thick strength against me, around me.
“Are you a photographer?” He glances at the camera.
Thankfully, his question cuts through my wayward thoughts—so unfamiliar to me.
“It’s a hobby.” Then, on impulse, I ask, “Would you mind?”
“Mind what?”
“If I got some shots of you and Bitsy.”
“Sure. What do you want us to do?”
“Nothing.” He looks perfect there, outrageously handsome in a dark olive parka that stretches across his wide chest, accompanied by his furry companion against the backdrop of the waterfront.
I focus my lens on them, and Chaz flashes me a smile that does that twisty thing to my stomach. He really should come with a warning label:Getting too close may cause choking, tingling, and tummy flutters. Sensing the attention, Bitsy tilts her head to the side in a comical pose that makes us laugh.
“I’m getting some great shots,” I say, clicking away. “I figured you’d be comfortable in front of the camera.”
“What makes you say that?”
“Videos of your performances.” I didn’t mean to let that slip, so I rush on to explain. “After being impressed with the song I heard you sing yesterday, I checked out some of your other music online.” I’m understating the fact that I stayedup to the wee hours stalking him like some fangirl.
“And?” he asks, regarding me with anticipation. “What did you think?”
“Your sound is unique. I like the soulful play of R&B infused with Latin. It’s modern with hints of old-school. Like the best of Marc Anthony, Miguel, and Giveon combined with your own flair.”
“Thanks, that’s high praise. You really gave it serious thought.”
“Well, you asked, and I didn’t just want to say that your music’s fantastic. I’m sure you already know that.”
“It never hurts to hear it from a beautiful woman.”
I give him a withering look. “Turn toward the water for a sec.”
Chaz obliges me, and I capture him in the sun’s reflection, clicking away. Once again, I get that strange feeling that I know him from somewhere. But it’s still so vague, and I have nothing concrete to pull from.
“Thank you,” I say, finally lowering my camera. Without it, I feel more exposed, and the nerves come back.
“Paw,” Chaz says, and Bitsy lifts one large paw off the ground. “She’ll stay like that until you shake it.”
“Oh.” I gingerly shake her paw. “It was nice to meet you, Bitsy.”
“When do I get to see the photos?” he asks.
“I’ll probably have them developed in a day or two. That way, I can see what I did well and where I need to improve. I can make copies for you to share with Bitsy’s family.”
“I don’t want to put you through any trouble.”
“It’s no trouble. Just keep in mind that I might be a little rusty. It’s been years since I picked up a camera.”
“Why did you stop?”
