“Mind if I tag along? It might make for an interesting chapter, the corporate ritual of the annual photoshoot.”
“I thought you finished the book.”
“I mean, I did, but I can always throw in a chapter or two.”
“Well, you are more than welcome to tag along if you don’t go throwing punches when you see William. Also, just observe. No commentary during the shoot. Remember you’re still a shadow.”
“Scout’s honor,” I promise, raising three fingers in a salute.
“Were you even a Boy Scout?”
“Not even close,” I admit, with a grin. “Orphanage kids don’t typically join the troops. Well, not at the orphanage I grew up in at least.”
A flicker of surprise graces her face, followed quickly by a kind of reluctant curiosity. It’s the first personal detail I’ve given, and I can see her cataloging it away, reassessing me in light of this new information. I’m not ashamed that I grew up in an orphanage, but I don’t like it when people assume things about me because of it. All my life I had to deal with that shit.
“Come on,” she says finally. “If we’re late, Caleb will assign me December again. I refuse to pose with another Santa hat. I’m eyeing April.”
“Why April?” I ask, taking a step back. However, I already know the answer. It’s her birthday month, but until she remembers me I have to act like I know nothing.
“My birthday month, and before you ask, it’s April 9th. Now come on.” She doesn’t waste any time walking out of the conference room and towards another. The photography setup occupies the largest conference room, and it’s transformed with lighting equipment and a minimalist backdrop. Several associates mill around, most of them looking as though they’d rather be anywhere else.
Caleb spots us immediately, waving Minji over. “There’s our star attorney! We’ve got you scheduled right after William.”
“Wonderful.” Her tone suggests it’s anything but.
I hang back, observing the organized chaos. The photographer, a lanky man with a beard and trendy glasses, directs William into various poses, each more awkward than the last. I still want to break his fucking jaw for not only calling me boy, but for disrespecting Minji. I’m trying to get brownie points though, so I’ll need to be on my best behavior.
“Right arm a little higher, chin up, now give me serious but approachable,” the photographer instructs, his camera clicking rapidly. “Perfect! That’s exactly what we need for July!” William beams with self-importance as he steps away from the backdrop, straightening his tie. He spots me and his smile falters slightly before he recovers.
“The writer’s still hanging around, I see,” he says to no one in particular, but loud enough for me to hear. I offer a friendly wave that seems to irritate him further. Small victories.
The photographer waves Minji forward. “Your turn. Let’s try for something softer this year—you’re our February spread.”
Her eyebrows shoot up. “February? With all the hearts and cupids? Like the month of love?” She crosses her arms. “I handle divorces for a living. Couldn’t I be April instead?”
“April’s gone.” He adjusts his camera strap. “February suits you—trust me.”
She approaches the leather chair centered before a backdrop now transformed with pink and red hearts. The photographer’s assistant scatters heart-shaped confetti across the floor while arranging a plush teddy bear and heart-shaped balloons in the corner.
Minji perches on the edge of the chair like she’s sitting on broken glass. Her shoulders form a perfect horizontal line,jaw clenched. Nothing like the woman I knew years ago. The photographer circles her, his expression falling with each shot.
The photographer lowers his camera with a sigh. “Could you try to relax? Think of something pleasant.”
“Like winning a case?” Minji’s arms remain firmly crossed.
“More like a sunset beach. Or someone special.” He gestures vaguely. “Whatever naturally brings out your smile.”
Her gaze flickers to mine for just a heartbeat.Did she just…?
“We need to move on,” the photographer mutters after several failed shots. “This pose isn’t working.”
Caleb glances at his watch. “Minji, we’re behind schedule. Just soften up, please?”
The tension radiates from her—jaw clenched, shoulders rigid. I find myself stepping forward. “May I try something?” I ask them both.
“Why not?” The photographer steps back. “She might respond better to you.”
I approach slowly, holding Minji’s gaze. “The sooner you look lovestruck, the sooner this ends,” I whisper. “And I know that’s what you want.”
