Page 31 of In the Arms of a Hero

“That’s an excellent question, especially since we’re discussing color versus black and white today. You’ll find that black and white requires more focus on the composition of what you want to photograph. For example, architecture is often photographed in black and white. It’s usually associated with the past. Obviously, because, at one time, that was the only choice the photographer had. Also, if you’re photographing outside, the light might guide your decision and how to control it. In bright sunlight, black and white will bring out the contrast. On a cloudy day, black and white allows you to play with the nuances of gray. But as always, the choice is yours as the photographer.”

Daniel walked with the others as the students spread out, answering their questions about the area's history. She peered at the screens of their cameras to make comments and suggestions on their photographs. With the early fall sun beaming down, she jogged back to her car to pull out her floppy hat.

“Hey! I didn’t expect to see you over here today.”

Looking up, she smiled as Aaron walked toward her with a confident air, dressed in navy pants, a light blue shirt, and a navy tie.

As she inclined her head toward the historic area, she said, “I’m working with the photography club again.”

Aaron’s gaze moved beyond her and then back to her face. “I only have a few minutes before Sam will join me, and we have to roll out, but can I watch?”

“Sure!” She pulled her hat onto her head, then playfully shoved his arm when he grinned. “Okay, I know it’s not going to win any fashion awards, but I hate to sunburn. And God knows I don’t want any more freckles.”

“On you, freckles are adorable.”

Rolling her eyes, they walked together, stopping when they got to Daniel. Aaron thrust out his hand. “I’m Aaron, a friend of Belinda’s.”

Daniel shook his hand with enthusiasm. “I’m Daniel. I work at the community college. Belinda’s been a super friend to help out the photography club.”

One of the students called Daniel over, and Belinda cast a side-eyed gaze toward Aaron, wondering what he was thinking.

“He seems nice,” Aaron said. “I would’ve done better in school if I’d had enthusiastic teachers like him.”

She nodded slowly. “He is really good with them.” She hesitated, then dragged her tongue over her lips. “He and I went out a couple of times, but it was evident that we were better as just friends.”

Aaron didn’t say anything, and she felt the heat of blush flame across her cheeks, having nothing to do with the sun. She wasn’t sure why she’d given him that tidbit about Daniel. Aaron had given no indication that he was interested in more than just being friends with her, either. She glanced down but wasn’tlucky enough for a large hole to open in the middle of the grass so she could fall into it.

“I’m glad,” Aaron finally said.

Belinda remained silent, not certain what exactly he was glad about.

“I saw you out one time with him and assumed you were dating.”

“Oh…” Once again, words failed to appear.

Aaron turned to her and sighed, shoving his hands into his pants pockets. “I was jealous but knew that I had no one to blame but myself. And even though I was jealous, I was glad you had someone who seemed to be into you. But, now, I’m very glad to know that you and he are just friends.”

They faced each other, and the sounds of the students around them faded away. Their eyes remained locked on each other as past regrets melded into hoped futures.

“Aaron!”

They both jumped at Sam’s voice calling from the parking lot. Aaron grinned and shook his head. “Bad timing, sweetheart. I have to go, but we’ll talk soon.”

He turned and jogged away, and she stood, stunned and silent. It was the first time she’d heard him call her sweetheart in a long time. And it warmed her heart just as much as ever.

16

Aaron opened the bakery door, the bell ringing above. As soon as his gaze landed on Bess and Belinda, he grinned and entered, followed by Sam, who held the door open for a woman and two kids with him.

“Ladies, I brought some new customers for you.”

“Well, that’s always welcome news,” Bess said, wiping her hands on her apron. “Welcome to Bess’s Bakery.”

Belinda laughed, her smile on Aaron as she stepped over to the counter to peer down at the kids. Jerking her thumb to her sister, she said, “This is Bess, and I’m Belinda. Who are you?”

“I’m Eddie,” the little boy announced.

“I’m Hope,” the little girl said, but her wide-eyed attention was already on the bakery case.

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