The first time I photographed him, he was a senior, and I was a sophomore. I spent most of my time at track meets for the Trinity University Gazette, with my face hidden behind a lens. He never noticed me and probably glossed over my name in the bylines of his many photographs. Now a senior, I recently struck a milestone when I was promoted to head photographer.
As I set up my tripod and equipment, a whirlwind of emotions swirled within me: excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. The sun poured onto the green field as I prepared to capture the image of Craig Blanton, a recent alumnus and rising star in the Olympic world. He enamored me on television during the Summer Games. My heart raced as he sprinted across the finish line, claiming his gold medal while the Star-Spangled Banner soared like an eagle in the sky.
Craig greeted me with an easy smile, blonde hair, and crystal blue eyes. He was dashing, wearing his Team USA uniform. The New York skyline hung in the distance as I peered through my lens, watching muscles ripple beneath his skin as he sprinted around the track. I snapped photo after photo, seizing the spirit of this athlete who had achieved so much so fast. Craig glided like a gazelle on his toes as I recorded him in slow motion.
He stopped, centered in my lens, and leaned over to catch his breath. "Okay, put your gold medal around your neck for this last shot," I said with a playful grin.
Craig chuckled, his blue eyes flashing in the sunlight. "This isn't a shoot for Sports Illustrated," he teased.
"I know," I replied calmly, trying to hide my nerves, at least on the outside.
"You're really into photography, huh," Craig said as he slipped the medal onto his neck.
"It's my passion."
"You're good at it. I looked you up to check out your portfolio. It was captivating and creative."
I blushed, feeling a rush of warmth, "Thank you. So, you know who I am?"
"Of course," Craig replied, his eyes lighting up. "You're Grace Ellis; your mother is world-renowned designer Moira Ellis. Everyone who follows fashion knows who you are."
I grinned, feeling a surge of confidence. "Well, it's a wrap here. Do you want to grab a bite with me?"
Craig slipped on his warm-up suit. "I'd love to. I've been dying to try the dumplings at Nam Wah in Chinatown."
"Yes, I love dumplings. Let's go!" I said. Our hands brushed against each other as we carried my photography equipment to my car.
I wondered if this was a date and looked into Craig's eyes, silently asking the question. He answered without speaking as he leaned in and kissed my cheek softly. I was surprised, but he took me to heaven in an instant.
I asked, "Did you know the definition of Dim Sum literally means to touch the heart?
Craig chuckled and said, "That's a perfect first date."
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Laurie B Spellman is an author who recently transitioned into writing fiction, focusing on romance. She has gained recognition in the NYCM—New York City Midnight Rhyming Story Competition, earning an honorable mention in the first round. Additionally, she has participated in various Writing Battles and Globe Soup, enhancing her skills in storytelling. Currently, Laurie is working on her debut novel that blends elements of romance and magical realism. Her background includes writing beauty industry textbooks, such as "The Book of Makeup Specialty" and "The Ultimate Makeup Academy," showcasing her diverse writing expertise.
This is a sweet one
Ah, this story is a cute one... 🥰