Page 18 of Penalized Love

Tessa barely acknowledges my presence, her eyes still glued to her screen. “Yeah, whatever.”

Rolling my eyes, I slip out the door, letting out a sigh of relief as it clicks shut behind me. I dash out of the building, happy to put my roommate and her bitchiness behind me.

Since my class isn’t for another hour, I decide to go to the library to kill time. Unsurprisingly, it is quiet when I arrive, but there are only a handful of students around. It doesn’t take long for me to find a secluded spot near the back on the main floor. Before I know it, I’ve plopped down and am ready to do some homework that isn’t due for another week.

I pull out my laptop, turn it on, and open my school email. I scan the new messages that have accumulated in my inbox since I last checked. One catches my eye because it’s from Dad, with the subject line, “Potential Opportunity For You.”

I click on the message and read:

Hey,

I hope everything is going well.

I wanted to let you know about an opportunity that’s come up. The hockey team needs a new photographer, and Ithought of you. I know you’ve got a lot on your plate right now, but I think this could be a wonderful chance for you to showcase your talent and get more involved on campus if you’re selected. Plus, it’s a work-study opportunity. I’ve attached the announcement to this email for you to check out.

Let me know if you’re interested, and we can discuss the details.

Love,

Dad

I stare at the screen, my heart racing as I reread the email. Working with the hockey team would mean being around Asher regularly, something I’ve been avoiding. And yet, the idea of being able to do something I love is so tempting.

If I get the job.

I click on the attachment and read through the job description. The position involves attending all home and select away games, capturing action shots of the players on the ice, and some behind-the-scenes moments in the locker room and during practices. It’s a significant time commitment, but the pay is decent for a work-study gig.

And it’s not like I don’t have the experience.

I lean back in my chair, staring at the library ceiling as if it holds the answers I seek. Do I take a chance and apply for the position, knowing it means that I will come face-to-face with Asher at some point? Or do I look for another opportunity?

I stare at the screen before me, wondering what I should say. Before I can stop myself, my fingers begin moving across my keyboard.

Hey Dad,

Thanks for thinking of me for this opportunity. I’m definitely interested in applying. Can you send me more details on how to submit my application and portfolio?

Love,

Isla

I hit send before I can second-guess what the hell I’m doing.

8

ISLA

Iclutch my portfolio to my chest as I pace outside the interview room. Was printing the photos that I submitted for the team photographer position overkill?

Yes.

Yes, because I submitted my application and pictures online. But did it make me feel better about what I’m about to do?

Debatable.

I’m a nervous wreck who is pacing a figurative hole in the floor outside of this closed door, all because I can’t sit still. I tuck a stray strand of blonde hair behind my ear and smooth the creases in my blouse without missing a beat. At least I’m the last one out here waiting for my name to be called. Nobody can judge how ridiculous I look right now, and that’s fine with me.

Deep breaths. In and out. You’re a total boss at photography. They’d be lucky to have you.

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