Glance at a distance

Katherine's POV

I managed to secure an interview slot for Dean ahead of schedule, defying the conventional timeline. Not that he required one, for he possessed the skills to effortlessly join my team. However, my intention was to uphold righteousness and ensure his comfort in this endeavor.

Deep down, I knew he too valued the importance of doing things properly. When I relayed the news of the interview date to him, his elation was palpable. Gratitude poured from his lips as he expressed his appreciation for the opportunity I had bestowed upon him.

With determination, he showcased his finest abilities during the interview, leaving no doubt in the minds of the decision-makers. Consequently, he was promptly offered the job, a testament to his undeniable talent. A mere week later, he embarked on his new professional journey, acquainting himself with the office and the various facets of the fashion house where he would contribute his skills.

Following his orientation, I extended an invitation for him to grace my office, a request he gladly accepted.

"So, how do you like the place? Does it tickle your fancy?"

"It's absolutely splendid, a true delight. I'm positively bursting with excitement to dive into work," he exclaimed with fervor.

"I'm thrilled to hear that. I must mention, you've already met the head photographer. He's a splendid chap and happens to be an ardent admirer of your talent. He's eagerly anticipating collaborating with you," I shared, and a smile graced his face.

"I, too, am eagerly looking forward to working with everyone here. Thank you ever so much for this incredible opportunity," he expressed, extending his hand to clasp mine.

"Thank you."

A gentle knock on the door startled him, causing him to retract his hand. A flicker of disappointment crossed my countenance, but swiftly vanished as Julia entered the room.

"Darling! I'm overjoyed. You'll be working here now. Which means we'll get to see each other every single day. I couldn't be happier," she gushed, enveloping Dean in a warm embrace, his eyes brimming with happiness.

"Yes, my love. But let's remember, we're in the presence of the boss. Let's try to compose ourselves," he whispered, though I caught his words, eliciting a soft chuckle from me.

"Oh, it's quite alright. I had finished our conversation anyway, so feel free to whisk him away," I replied, and Julia couldn't contain her elation.

"Thank you so much, Ma'am, for this opportunity. Dean is one of the finest photographers in the entire country. I assure you, his work will leave you spellbound," she exclaimed in her excited tone.

"Yeah, I know. But hey, since you're here, Julia, why don't you show him around the studios? Mr. Richards eagerly awaits his arrival, and is ready to embark on today's captivating photoshoot," I suggested, a mischievous glint in my eye. Julia's face lit up with excitement as she agreed.

"Come, my darling. Let me guide you through this magical place," she declared, gently taking his hand. With a final farewell wave in my direction, they ventured outside, leaving me to reflect with a contented smile. Little did I know, this journey was about to test my resolve in ways I never anticipated.

Dean's POV

Julia led me into the mesmerizing studios, where a vibrant world unfolded before my eyes. A stunning model adorned in an exquisite ensemble became the center of attention, surrounded by a symphony of clicking cameras and a bustling crowd. The director and editor huddled behind their screens, meticulously examining the captured moments. Meanwhile, the photographer and director gracefully guided the model, revealing the secrets of their craft.

Approaching the esteemed head photographer, whom I had met earlier, I extended a warm greeting, accompanied by a nod of recognition towards the unfamiliar editor.

"Ah, Mr. Grey, you grace us with your presence. Welcome," the head photographer acknowledged, extending his hand for a firm handshake.

"Thank you, sir," I replied, gratitude lacing my words.

He proceeded to introduce me to the diverse cast of characters, including the captivating model then he invited me to stand alongside them as they embarked on their photographic journey.

As the photo shoot continued, a nagging feeling tugged at my artistic senses, urging me to voice my concerns to Mr. Richards. Something about the angles just didn't sit right with me. So, I mustered up the courage to approach him and share my thoughts. He attentively listened as I passionately explained how a different perspective could enhance the overall aesthetic of the pictures.

Intrigued by my conviction, Mr. Richards challenged me to demonstrate my vision. Nervously, I hesitated, feeling unsure of my ability to execute my ideas. I offered to guide the photographer instead, believing it to be a safer option. However, Mr. Richards insisted, his curiosity piqued. He requested a camera be placed in my hands, urging me to showcase my talent.

With a racing heart, I cautiously approached the model, who greeted me with a warm smile. Taking a deep breath, I began directing her movements.

"What is your name?" I asked her.

"Venus," she replied.

"Venus, I will need you to do something for me. Tilt your head that way, chin up, and gracefully shift your left leg in this direction," I instructed. To my delight, she effortlessly followed my guidance, embodying the essence of my artistic vision.

"Perfect! Hold that pose," I exclaimed, my confidence growing. I started capturing the images, each click of the camera immortalizing the beauty that unfolded before me. Throughout the shoot, I continued to guide Venus, amazed by her unwavering confidence and undeniable expertise in her craft.

After capturing a sufficient number of shots, I expressed my gratitude to Venus and turned to face Mr. Richards, who beamed at me with pride. His words of praise filled the air, affirming my talent and skill. "These pictures have a different, breathtaking quality. You possess a true understanding of your craft. Congratulations," he commended.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, I humbly thanked him. The editor, who introduced himself as Derek, he tooncouldn't help but express admiration for my work. "Dean, the way you handled the shoot was impeccable. The lighting perfectly accentuates her flawless skin. Congratulations," he praised, further validating my artistic prowess.

"Thank you, sir," Shahrukh replied.

All in all, the day went rather smoothly. We had another shoot scheduled outside the office the following day, and Mr. Richards entrusted me with the role of the photographer. I was thrilled to have such an opportunity to showcase my skills, yet a hint of fear lingered within me. I desperately hoped that everything would go according to plan, fearing any missteps that could potentially ruin the shoot.

As the clock struck 5pm, we wrapped up for the day and bid farewell. Julia had a late meeting with directors from a different fashion house, leaving me to make my way home alone. The office was nearly deserted as I made my way towards the elevator.

Just as I neared the elevator, a sudden force seized my arm and yanked me into a room. Before I could utter a word, the door swiftly closed behind me, and I found myself pressed against it as a pair of lips forcefully met mine. Initially, my instinct was to fight off the intruder, but in an instant, I recognized the familiar touch of Katherine.

She pressed her lips against mine with an intensity that stole the very air from my lungs. The sheer force of her passion left me gasping for breath, my chest heaving as we finally parted, our eyes locked in a mesmerizing gaze, our foreheads gently touching.

"Katherine, I thought you had gone," I managed to utter, a hint of surprise in my voice, to which she responded with a melodic laugh. I gently touched her face, my thumb grazing over her skin.

"Oh no, my love. I have been waiting, patiently, for the moment you show up, so that I could steal one last kiss before saying goodbye," she confessed, her words punctuated by her own breathlessness.

Her audacity amused me, and I couldn't help but join in her laughter, our mirth intertwining like a dance.

Drawing her closer, I initiated a slow, deliberate kiss, one that we had grown accustomed to, causing a soft moan to escape her throat. I knew her desires well, and this tender touch always elicited the most delightful response from her.

Eventually, we broke the kiss, but our embrace remained, our bodies intertwined in a comforting hug.

"I will see you tomorrow, love," she whispered, her voice filled with anticipation.

"See tomorrow, Katherine," I echoed, my heart already yearning for the next encounter.

I kissed her again one last time before she finally left my arms. As I watched her leave, my fingers brushed over my lips, as my heart overflowed with emotions. I couldn't bare to see her leave but I knew I had to, no matter how hard I was yearning for her to remain in my arms.

I left to my house a few moments later, as I anticipated what our next meeting would bring.