Tag You're Mine

by T L Osborn

  I’m taking a few photos of Torrie alone, after taking a lot with Ed and the boys cradling her belly when I’m interrupted by my phone ringing within my bag. Glancing at it, I see an unknown number.

  “Sorry, I have to take this,” I say to Torrie.

  “No worries, I gotta pee anyway.”

  “Hello, Riley Fields speaking,” I say, answering the phone.

  “Hi Riley, my name is Aria Thompson and I’m calling today as my fiancé and I are getting married and we are looking for a wedding photographer.”

  “Congratulations. When is the wedding?”

  “October twenty-second. I know I’ve probably left it a bit late to be getting a photographer, but I want to pick just the right one. I came across your name and photos while searching and I was wondering if you could come and meet us next weekend?”

  I check my calendar quickly. “Absolutely, I’m free next Saturday or Sunday, whichever suits you both.”

  “How about Saturday, say two in the afternoon? We live out in Whiteman’s Valley, Upper Hutt. Is it going to be a problem to get to us?”

  “Absolutely not. I can definitely come to you.”

  “Excellent. We live down Katherine Mansfield Drive, last house on the street; you can’t miss the iron-gate. Just push the intercom button and it’ll tell me you’ve arrived.”

  “I look forward to meeting you.”

  “You too.” I hear the click and know she’s hung up. I can’t believe I’ve just been given the opportunity to do photography for a wedding.

  I hope I get it.

  “Poppy has made herself at home, she’s already eating Lily’s food,” Torrie refers to her own dog as she enters her lounge room and hands me a glass of wine. She takes a sip of the goblet in her hand.

  “I can’t wait to have wine again because this sparkling grape juice just doesn’t cut it.”

  I take a sip of the drink she’s given me, “I take it Poppy and I are staying here tonight.”

  “Yes, so what was that phone call about?” I ask.

  “A bride asking me if I can meet her and her fiancé next weekend to discuss being their wedding photographer.”

  “That’s something to celebrate.”

  “I only hope I’m good enough to get the job. The last wedding photography I did was when I was studying.”

  “Sis, you got this. You’re talented, friendly, and if you’re not happy with your photos, then we both know your customers won’t be.” I take a sip of my drink. “Don’t overthink it.”

  “I’m not.”

  “You are. I can see the wheels turning in your head. You got this.”

  “Tell me, when is the baby shower for this little bundle of joy?” I ask, turning the topic of conversation away from me.

  “I’m not having one. Ed is whisking me away for a romantic babymoon as he calls it. He decided we need some time away together before this new baby arrives.”

  “Do you know where you’re going?”

  “No, and no matter how many times I ask he won’t tell me.”

  “Sounds romantic.”

  “You’ll have this one day. You never know what the future is going to hold, and now that you have a new man in your life, it could end up being like this for you.”

  A pit of guilt forms within my stomach. I really shouldn’t have told my family James and I were dating.

  Chapter Six

  Riley

  I’m sitting on my bed, making some edits to my manuscript when suddenly, an idea for the cover image flashes through my mind. Dark jeans, black shirt, black and purple tie with abs on display. My readers are going to flip out.

  I haven’t actually texted James to arrange this weekend; I’ve been incredibly busy with photoshoots and editing the images for my clients.

  Picking up my phone, I fire off a quick message.

  Me: Hi James. Riley here. If we’re still on for this weekend, I have a couple of requests for you.

  James: We sure are. I’m looking forward to it.

  Me: Excellent. Do you own dark jeans, a black shirt and a purple tie?

  James: I do.

  Me: Great. That’s what I want you to wear for the photoshoot.

  James: Are you sure you want the shirt on?

  Me: To start with.

  James: So you do want to see me naked?

  Me: This is a professional photoshoot.

  James: Who says we can’t mix business with pleasure?

  Me: Now I’m blushing.

  James: I’m going to make you do more than that on Saturday night.

  Me: Oh really? You think we’re going to have sex, huh?

  James: Like I said, we’re going to have sex. You want to. I want to. Why not do it together?

  Me: Maybe, but you’ll have to wait and find out.

  James: Tag: You’re it.

  I giggle at my phone.

  “What are you laughing at?” Courtney asks as she enters the room.

  “Oh, nothing. Hey, are you able to take Poppy for me on Sunday? I have a–”

  “Girl, do you have a date?”

  “I don’t want to put any labels on it, but well, James and I are meeting up together and having dinner before I take some photos of him.”

  “Photos? For what?”

  “Book four’s cover.”

  “If you’re putting him on the cover, you’re going to need to change the rest of them at some point.”

  “I probably will, but I’m going to see how this one goes first.”

  “Wear something sexy for your date with James.” She winks at me.

  I roll my eyes and return to my schedule. If something happens with James it happens, but I’m not going to force the situation. He sure talks a big game, but can he back it up? I’m not sure. Dylan used to promise me things all the time that never happened and James is rumoured to be the biggest man-whore in town. I don’t know if I should trust him.

  My vagina certainly won’t say no if something happens. It doesn’t mean I have to let my heart start making the decisions around James and me.

  James

  “Hey,” I say as I enter Simon’s home office.

  “Hey,” he replies, not looking up from whatever it is he’s reading. I go over to his whiskey cupboard, grab two glasses and the half-full decanter. Pouring two drinks, I place one in front of him. “Thanks.” He picks it up, taking a sip.

  “How’s Charlotte?” I ask, taking a seat opposite him on the couch. He’s been off work the last three days as she’s been sick.

  “Itchy and miserable. It’s been rough, all I want to do is take her pain away, but I can’t. Chickenpox sucks.”

  “You look like you and Aria could do with a date night. Why don’t you go out to dinner? I’ll stay and watch Charlotte.”

  He arches an eyebrow. “No hot date tonight?”

  “Nope. I’m a free man.”

  He smiles. “What about your little black book full of ladies numbers?”

  “Nah, man, I’ve fucked all of them.”

  “You really have lost your touch.” He chuckles.

  “Not completely. I do have a hot date tomorrow night.”

  “Really? With who?”

  “Never you mind.”

  “Is it Riley?” he asks.

  “None of your business.”

  “I’ll take that as a yes. You must really like this one to be chasing her this hard.” He laughs.

  “I didn’t do much chasing.”

  He takes a sip of his whiskey. “You know, I think we might take you up on the offer of babysitting Charlotte tonight. It’s been a while since Aria and I have had a date night. You’re welcome to stay tonight if that makes things easier.”

  I hold out my hand in front of me. “It’s been a while since my fingernails have been painted.”

  “You might regret those words. Her new favourite colour is fluorescent green.”

  I shrug. “I’ll do anything for her.” He chuckles as he gets out of his seat. “Where is she?”


  “In the lounge watching a movie with Aria; at least she was an hour ago.”

  We enter the lounge where we find Aria in the kitchen, pouring herself a wine.

  “How’s Charlotte?” Simon asks as he gives her a quick kiss.

  “She’s okay; complaining of being itchy.”

  “James has offered to look after Charlotte for us, so we can go out for dinner.”

  “Si, I dunno… Charlotte’s sick.”

  “Aria, just get her ready for bed, put whatever stuff on she needs to stop the itching and I’ve got this. We’ll just chill out here,” I reply.

  “Are you sure?” Aria asks.

  “Go,” I say, and they share an excited look.

  “Want a game of pool while Aria gets Charlotte and herself ready to go out?” Simon asks.

  “Are you looking for an ass-kicking?” I chuckle.

  “I’m going to win.”

  “You say that every time.” One game of pool later and he’s a sore loser.

  “Right, we’re off. Princess be good for Uncle James.” Simon says, giving Charlotte a huge cuddle good bye.

  “Mummy, I’m itchy.” Charlotte wails as she cries out for Aria.

  “I know sweetie, but you can’t have any more cream just yet.” Aria gives her a hug. “You’ll be okay. You should read a book to Uncle James.”

  Charlotte looks at me and flings herself towards me, “Can we Unca James?”

  “Sure.” I say as we walk Simon and Aria to the front door so they can leave.

  Charlotte and I wave goodbye to them.

  “What do you want to do, munchkin?” I ask as I carry her into the lounge.

  “Can we paint our nails and then read?” she asks, her blue eyes lighting up.

  “Sure.”

  “Then can we watch a movie?”

  “Let me guess, you want to watch Beauty and the Beast?”

  She shakes her head. “No, Cinderella.”

  Odd, Belle is her favourite princess.

  “Okay, go upstairs and get your nail polish and we’ll get started.

  She heads up the stairs and comes down about ten minutes later with a selection of polishes. Sure enough, they’re all bright green.

  “I want green, Unca James,” she says.

  “Sure, munchkin, but can you do mine pink?” I ask.

  She places the container down, disappears only to return moments later with pink glittery nail polish. Relief washes over me; at least this will be a normal colour.

  We sit down and she begins to paint my nails, fingers and the dining room table. I’ll clean it up before Aria and Simon return.

  “They look pretty, Unca James,” she says.

  “You do a great job,” I reply.

  My phone buzzes on the table and I see it’s Riley.

  Riley: One more thing. No belt with your jeans tomorrow.

  Picking up my phone I respond.

  Me: Makes them easier to remove.

  Riley: Who said anything about taking your pants off?

  Me: I thought that’s what you were implying.

  Riley: I’d better get back to editing. I’ll see you tomorrow.

  Charlotte curls up on the couch beside me as I scroll through my phone, searching Facebook, when I decide to try and find Riley. I find her on the first search and then send a friend request which is accepted almost immediately.

  Scrolling through her feed, I see loads of photos of Poppy.

  That is one cute dog.

  Then I find out she has an Instagram account as well; I add her on there too. I make a post of my nails painted by Charlotte and put it down, turning my attention to the movie Charlotte’s picked out.

  After watching the movie, I’m carrying my niece up to her bed as Simon and Aria arrive home. I flash them my nails.

  “Very pretty,” Aria says.

  “You should totally get her to do them for your wedding.” I laugh.

  “Nah, she can keep painting yours,” Aria says. “I’m off to bed. Night you two.”

  “Think I might turn in too,” Simon says.

  “I think I’ll sleep down here. I really don’t feel like hearing that.”

  I make my way towards the spare room on the lower level. I check my phone to see Riley’s left me a comment underneath my nail polish post.

  @RE Fields. Looking Great. Pink suits you.

  I smile and as soon as my head hits the pillows, Riley swims through my mind. I’m really hoping tomorrow night goes as planned.

  Riley

  I’m gathering my stuff ready for my meeting today; putting my folder, laptop, cord and mousepad into my bag.

  Wait a minute, where is my mouse? It was here a moment ago, I’m sure of it.

  I search the surrounding area with no sign of it. That’s when I hear the unmistakable sounds of my mouse rattling across the floor, followed by the bark of an overexcited puppy.

  My puppy thinks it’s a ball.

  As I go chase after her, I hear Courtney say, “Poppy, drop the mouse, you silly pup.”

  Poppy yelps as Courtney exits her room. I sigh with relief.

  “Thanks. Hey, are you still able to look after her for me today?” I ask.

  “Sure. You go and get laid, because sweetie, you really could do with the action.”

  “It’s not going to happen.”

  “Don’t stop it if it does.” She laughs as she turns her back to me, walking towards her room. I finish packing my bag and recheck myself in the mirror quickly just to make sure I look professional enough to meet these clients today. I really need this job.

  Arriving at the large iron-gate of Simon and Aria’s home, I only hope they think I’m good enough and my photos are what they’re looking for. My stomach knots with nerves as a pit forms in it and I wring my hands on the steering wheel of the car to try and calm myself.

  I press the button as instructed by Aria and the gates jump into life.

  Driving down the driveway slowly, I marvel at the grounds and how pretty they are. There’s a gazebo, a hedge full of flowers and blossom trees. The perfect place to take photos. Parking my car outside their home, I suddenly feel so out of place. My car, with its patchy paint job, is desperate for a cleaning; it’s something I haven’t had time to do. Oh well, I do plan on buying a new car, and soon. I’m almost at my goal of saving to pay for it.

  I approach the door, carrying my laptop bag and it opens before I even have an opportunity to knock. The woman who’s opened the door isn’t much taller than me. She’s wearing a Disney princess t-shirt and ripped jeans. Not the person I thought I’d meet upon arriving, but I’m happy about that.

  “You must be Riley?” she asks, holding out a hand for me.

  “Aria?” I return the handshake.

  “That’s me. Come on in.” I begin to remove my shoes. “Don’t worry about that, we have a daughter and I have to vacuum anyway. I love the colour of your shoes.”

  “Thank you.” I blush at the compliment. I’m awed as I enter the impressive entranceway to their home. It’s beautiful.

  “Simon, can I introduce Riley? She’s the photographer we are meeting with,” Aria says.

  As I turn, I suddenly wonder whether or not I’m looking at James. His body is bulky, muscular, and he’s wearing a black cotton t-shirt. When he turns, I’m relieved to see it’s not him.

  “Hi,” he says, standing and holding out his hand for me. “Can I offer you a drink? Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, orange juice?”

  “A cup of tea would be lovely.”

  “How do you have it?” he asks.

  “Just milk is fine.”

  “Excellent, come take a seat with Aria and I’ll make the drinks,” Simon says.

  I follow Aria over to the dining room table and pull out my folder which is full of the information I need for today.

  “I’m going to get right to the point. We’ve been searching for a photographer for a few months now and I’ve seen enough of your photos to convince me you�
�re the photographer I want. I just have a few questions for you,” Aria says as Simon brings over the drinks.

  “Fire away,” I reply, picking up the mug and take a sip.

  “What are your work hours? Is there any chance you could be here at eight in the morning and stay until late into the evening?” she asks.

  I nod as I swallow a mouthful. “Of course! I’m available for as long as you require.”

  “For privacy reasons, we will need you to sign an NDA. Will this be a problem?” she asks.

  “Nope, absolutely not. I have my own contract for you to sign as well, which you both can take your time to look over, and if you have any further questions, just ask.”

  “Excellent. Now, I already have a list of photos I’d like taken, but I’m sure I’ll add to it as the next few months go by.”

  “Absolutely, we can even add to it on the day if there’s something you think of at the last minute.”

  Simon laughs. “See, she knows you well already, baby.”

  “Ha-ha, Simon.”

  “Is that all you need from me? I’d hate to hold you up from your afternoon,” I say.

  “Nope, I think we’ve asked all we need to,” Aria says.

  “Excellent. Send through that NDA as soon as you’re able and I’ll sign it. It was lovely to meet you both.”

  “You too,” Simon says as he and Aria escort me to the door.

  Climbing into my car, I can’t believe I was offered the job.

  I fire off a text to James.

  Me: Hey, would you like me to bring anything?

  James: Nope, meet me by our tree.

  Turning my car on, I shift it into drive and head back towards Wellington.

  The closer I get to the city, the darker the clouds become overhead.

  Damn.

  I’d hoped to try some outside shots of James today; but I don’t have to get a perfect shot today, I can always arrange another day.

  Chapter Seven

  James

  I’m leaning against our tree, waiting for Riley to arrive, when a gust of wind sends a shiver down my spine. A southerly is coming in. It’s definitely getting colder and a storm seems to be coming our way with it.