Chapter 4
SARAH
We’d been snacking and hydrating most of the day, catching up on the last decade and a half, at least the condensed version.
Jackie opened up even more once I did too.
I vented about my frustrations with work and how I was contemplating a change.
I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go into travel nursing or just find another position locally.
I had no partner, human kids, or fur babies so I was free to move about as I wanted if I decided to pursue something mobile.
It would also give me the opportunity to see more of the country, especially since I didn’t get much chance to right now.
“So how did you get into doing graphic design and promotions in the literary world?” It seemed so niche and fascinating. Being a bookworm, hearing the ins and outs of what goes on in cover design had me fucking enthralled. I was sure I had some heart eyes going on.
“Honestly, it started with freelance work. As an independent contractor, I put myself out there wherever I could to get work. I was browsing on social media and saw a public posting calling for some design work on a book series. The author was looking to redesign an older series for a fresher look to generate some new sales. She liked my samples, and the rest is history.”
“God, that’s so fucking cool! Do you have a portfolio or business page? I want to see some of your stuff. I bet it’s beautiful.” Jackie blushed at my compliment. It made me wonder how other activities would make her blush. Head out of the gutter, Sarah!
“Um, yeah. I can send you some links, or you can search ‘Book’T Designs’.
That’s all my book-related work.” I pulled out my phone and typed it into the browser search bar.
It came up immediately, so I clicked through and started scrolling among her previous projects.
So damn pretty. Jackie was skilled, for sure.
Some were colorful, some had a darker vibe with skulls or smoke, or barren landscapes.
Then there were ones she’d made with stock photos that she’d edited full of couples or single models.
The lighting and tones were amazing. Thanks to great photographers and her keen eye and creativity, my girl had built something to be admired and respected. My girl.
“Wow,” I whispered in awe. “Jackie, these are freaking gorgeous, and I would know. I’m a cover whore.
They’re the first thing that draws my eye to a book.
” Her blush deepened, and she rubbed the back of her neck.
Poor thing wasn’t good at taking compliments or praise.
I’d have to work on that with her, if she’d let me.
“Thanks, that means a lot coming from someone who values the outcome of the work I do. Plus, it’s a field that allows me to be my introverted self.
I want to work on that, though. Coming out of my shell more and being social.
Living life is about being a little uncomfortable for the sake of growth and joy.
I want to experience that.” Her gaze returned to mine, and then she said something that caused butterflies to take flight in my stomach.
“Maybe you can be the one to help me with that.” She stood up, held her hand out to me, and once I took it, she took off running toward the pool, yanking us into the deep end unexpectedly.
We held hands the entire time during our ascent for air and came up giggling at each other.
My crush was never going to go away with her glowing like this.
I ran my thumb across the back of her hand underwater, and her eyes widened.
I knew I was pushing her again. “Let’s get to the side of the pool.
I’m too short for this shit.” I winked at her and pulled her to the concrete edge so we could exit the water and get back to our chairs.
“Or we can sit with our feet in and soak up a bit more sun, but I’d need more sunscreen.
Then maybe we can get up and get changed.
Grab some dinner. You in?” Jackie’s facial expression had returned to normal, and she nodded vigorously.
“I could definitely eat.” And it was settled.
We took the walk back to our cabins and decided to meet back out in the corridor in an hour.
“See you back in a bit.” She leaned forward and grabbed me in a quick hug. It seemed she was getting more comfortable with casual touch and affection. Good to know.
Fifty-five minutes later, I stood at Jackie’s door, about to knock when it flew open.
Yeah, she was ready to go. The longer side of her asymmetrical hairstyle was wavy, and her makeup was flawless.
Gold shadow on her eyelids made those hazel eyes pop, and her lashes fluttered with coats of mascara.
Her cheeks were a rosy peach, with a similar shade swiped across her grinning mouth.
She was a sight. But the dress she was wearing was the icing on the cake I wanted to fucking eat.
It was an emerald color, but with gold accents at the edge of the fabric and at the bow tied at her hip.
My heart started to race, taking in her whole look.
The dress had long sleeves and a plunging neckline that boosted Jackie’s already ample cleavage, and she’d added gold jewelry to finish off the ensemble.
“Well, I feel underdressed.” I joked nervously.
I looked down at the teal crop top and wide leg trouser two-piece set I was wearing.
I’d worn my curly hair down tonight but worked on defining and taming the ringlets.
My copper mane was glossy, and I was wearing a gold choker and giant gold hoop earrings.
“Underdressed where?” Jackie tossed back at me. She took my hand and proceeded to twirl me, giving her a full view. Now I was the one blushing under her attention. Hopefully she didn’t notice.
I rounded back to her and stopped, wringing my hands in front of me. “Did you have a taste for anything in particular?” I wanted to give her the chance to assert herself. She tapped her index finger against her lips, which was extremely distracting, but I reigned it in.
“I want to go to that steakhouse you mentioned earlier today. You raved about the food and service. Let’s go.”
“Gladly, m’lady.” And I linked my arm with hers. She snorted softly. I’d take it.