Behind His Lens(71)

“I have to go, Charley. We have to be ready in thirty minutes to drive to the shoot.”

No.

I groan in protest as the layers of my sleepy haze peel away. “Don’t make me. Let’s just sleep all day.”

“I wish, but it’ll be fun once we get there. You’ve probably never seen an active volcano before.”

“Is that supposed to make me want to get up?” I groan, trying to roll toward him, but he’s already crawling off the bed to leave.

He chuckles and leans over to kiss me again, “Up, pretty girl. I’ll meet you down in the lobby soon.”

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Charley

The day passed so quickly that as I walk toward the resort’s restaurant for dinner, I realize it feels like an entire week of activities were crammed into the last few hours. This morning, after Jude practically pulled me out of our bed, the crew trekked to Hualalai, an active volcano on the western edge of the island. I learned as we were driving to the location that “active” is a relatively loose term in relation to volcanoes. This one hasn’t erupted since 1801, so our photo shoot was safe and sound.

All of the models dressed in skimpy red and black swimsuits of varying styles. The make-up crew gave us dark, smoky eyes and layered on the mascara until I could hardly lift my eyelid. It was much different than anything I’d ever done before, but Jude was right; it ended up being really fun once we got there. We didn’t do any solo shots. Ryan directed us in small groups and then we took a few with all ten of us for the large centerfolds of the magazine. They should be artistic and sexy. I don’t think anyone will look at volcanoes the same after they see us in our bikinis.

Luckily, the magazine won’t come out for a couple of months, which gives me just enough time to forget about the impending fame. Hell, maybe I’ll miss the release all together and just pretend it never happened. The only evidence will be the big fat paycheck sitting in my bank upon my return back home.

Since it’s our last night in Hawaii, all of the crew is meeting in the hotel restaurant for dinner. It feels bittersweet to be heading home tomorrow, but I miss being in my own space, away from crazy models and intrusive make-up crews. While I’ve enjoyed paradise, I can’t wait to get back to my normal routine.

Except, there’s the question of Jude. I haven’t let myself consider how our relationship will change when we get back to New York. I want to transplant every feeling I’ve had here back home with me, but I can’t avoid the truth forever. I’d be naive to think there’s any kind of future for us.

“Charley!” Bella calls my name, jarring me from my reverie. I glance up to see her standing with a few of the models just outside of the restaurant, waiting for me to catch up. My lips curl into what seems like a genuine smile as I step closer.

“Hey, thanks for waiting,” I offer, trying to shake the black cloud that had suddenly darkened my mood. It’s strange how quickly that hopeless feeling can weasel its way back into my world. I wring out my hands. Is it from thinking about things ending with Jude? I’ve been alone for a long time; it’s nothing new.

“No problem, but I’m starving, so let’s go eat.” She links her arm around mine and tugs me forward until we’re stepping into the tropical restaurant.

The restaurant itself is gorgeous, but they have the porch screens open so that the Hawaiian sunset becomes the focal point of the entire eastern wall. The ocean’s waves are audible over the soft island music streaming from the corners of the room.

Modern tiki torches adorn the perimeter walls, offering sultry lighting and leading our path to the porch where the hostess declares that our party will be seated.

The open porch blankets the restaurant in warm humidity, making me glad I opted for a thin criss-crossed strappy dress. My hair is rolled into a messy, low bun, but a few strands have already escaped the hair tie. I have to keep coaxing them back as the breeze blows them gently against my cheek.

I know Jude’s here already because Ryan asked him to come down earlier for a drink. I was hoping we’d have some time together after the shoot, but we ended up getting back later than we expected. All day I was busy getting plucked and prodded and he was busy snapping photos. We haven’t been able to say more than two words to each other since this morning. It’s strange how quickly the sinking feeling in my stomach can return. It’s like Jude wields the power to relax me, and when he’s not around, my stomach coils into the same tight ball I’ve had for the past four years.