Page 106 of Penalized Love

He gives me a playful smile as he points to something behind me.“I thought we’d celebrate your new studio by hanging this up. It deserves a spot.”

I turn to look at where he’s directing my attention and shake my head.“Asher, that’s a picture of you. You just want to see your face on the wall.”

He winks just before he walks over to grab the frame and come back toward me.“That’s what makes it fun, Mrs. Bennett. Besides, it’s my favorite. Remember that day? You made me run back and forth on the beach just to get the perfect shot.”

I roll my eyes but take the frame, the memory bringing a smile to my face.“You were such a good sport about it. Not to mention that you looked pretty great in those shots, if I do say so myself.”

Asher laughs.“Pretty sure you just like bossing me around.”

He’s not wrong there. I find a spot on the wall where the photo would fit perfectly. “Maybe a little,”I tease.“But I love that you are always willing to help me, even back then. Remember when I wanted some shots that weren’t sports-related, and you convinced half the Red Wolves to model for me?”

He chuckles, stepping behind me to help hang the frame.“How could I forget? None of them knew what they were doing, but you made us all look good. Even Coach joined in.”

I shake my head at the memory.“I think that was more him helping out because he’s my dad versus my photography skills.”

“Nah, it was all about your talent and skills.”

I let him have the last word because the photo frame is in place. I shift my body so that I’m facing Asher once more. My hands come up to rest on his chest as his arms find their way to my waist.“Well, whatever the reason, I’m grateful for all the support. From you, from the Red Wolves alumni, from my family. It means everything to me.”

“You deserve it, Isla. You’ve worked so hard for this.”His voice is soft enough that his just tone is bringing a tear to my eye.“I’m so proud of you.”

I tilt my head back to meet his gaze.“And I couldn’t have done it without you, Bennett. You’ve been my rock through everything.”

“And you’ve been mine, sunshine.”I chuckle when he kisses me again before he continues,“We make a pretty good team, you and me.”

“The absolute best.”

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