Page 54 of Dirty Shots

“Mr. Bergman,” said Eric, keeping his voice calm. “If you’d like to come and view the photographs at my studio, you’re more than welcome.”

Trent’s face was puce with anger, the red making his white hair appear even whiter. “I’m not going into some kind of den for pornography! You’ve turned my daughter into a little whore. I’ll set no foot in that place.”

A muscle in Eric’s jaw twitched. “I told you not to call her that again.”

“Don’t even speak to me!” And her father swung his fist, connecting with Eric’s jaw. His head snapped back, and he staggered from the table.

“Dad!” Anya screamed, jumping from her seat to run to Eric. His nose was bloodied, but he didn’t attempt to retaliate. She was terrified they’d have another episode like with Gavin, but Eric restrained himself.

Her father opened his wallet and threw money on the table. “Pay for the meal with this,” he spat at Anya. “And then keep the change like the little whore you are. I don’t ever want to see you again.”

He stormed from the restaurant. Her mother looked between Anya and the direction Trent had gone, before picking up her jacket and purse. “I’ll call you,” she said, before hurrying after him.

Anya burst into tears.

Eric’s arms found their way around her, but she pushed him away. “Leave me alone. I did this for you. If I’d never met you, I wouldn’t have just lost my father. I can’t be around you right now. Just leave me alone.” And with tears streaming down her face, she ran from the restaurant, all eyes on her, leaving Eric alone.

---