Page 1 of One Last Chance

CHLOE

Present

“Chloe, you’re the best photographer we have. I need you on this project. I know you’ve worked long hours, but just one more gig, please? For me?”

I sigh as I take a seat opposite Jim Sloan’s desk. I’ve just returned from the Bahamas, taking photographs at a fashion shoot for Antonia Styles’ new line. Don’t get me wrong, the magical beaches and sunsets were breathtaking, but I’m glad to be back home in New York. Jim promised me some time off after this contract, and God knows I need it. My blonde hair needs a cut and style, and I’m sick of wearing these khakis and sneakers. I’m also dead tired and in need of a hot shower and rest.

I’d decided to stop in to the office on my way home from the airport when Jim spotted me and called me into his office. My plan had been to quickly download all the photographs I had taken of the models, and then email them through to Ms. Styles’ assistant to pass on for selection.

Now, I wish I went straight home as Jim’s just told me he needs me on another assignment.

“Okay, hit me with it. Where and when are we talking?”

Jim smiles wolfishly as he takes a seat at his desk. Tapping his fingertips together in front of his face like some kind of evil villain, he replies, “The answer to your questions is Vixen Falls, and your plane flies out tomorrow at noon.”

I feel my breath hitch at the back of my throat as memories of Vixen Falls come to mind. Vixen Falls—my hometown, where I grew up. The place I ran from, leaving my heart behind. The place where the man who holds it still lives and plays for the Vixen Rapids as their star quarterback. The place where I lost my virginity to my best friend’s boyfriend and made the biggest mistake of my life.

It has been five years since I left, and although my parents still live there, I have managed to keep away by inviting them to New York for Christmas. There’s no way I can return home, not after running like the coward I was the morning after Domenic’s party when I woke up in his bed, covered in guilt for giving in to my body’s desires.

Ican’tgo back there.

“Chloe, are you listening to me?” Jim asks, snapping his fingers in front of my face.

I lift my gaze to his. “What’s the job, Jim?” I’m hoping I can talk myself out of this one.

“Now, before I answer, you need to hear me out.”

I fold my arms over my chest and frown. “Jim, I’m not agreeing to anything until you tell me exactly what the job entails.”

“Fine, fine,” he agrees, holding his palms out to me. “You know how the Vixen Rapids are playing this weekend?”

I don’t reply.

I’m too damn scared of what’s going to come out of his mouth next, so I simply nod.

“Well, we have been hired to go out there and take photos forSleek Sports Magazine, and they’ve specifically asked for you.”

Surprise rushes through me as I get up off my chair and begin to pace. Not only is he asking me to go back to Vixen Falls, but he’s also asking me to shoot Domenic’s team—histeam for God’s sake.

I shake my head, pause, and place my hands on my hips. “Jim,” I plead. “Don’t ask me to do this. I’ve never asked you for much the entire time I’ve worked for you, so please don’t make me go.” Tears burn behind my eyelids, and I inhale deeply, trying to control my emotions.

“Can I ask why?” he questions as he stands, then walks around the desk leaning on it.

I shake my head. “Please don’t, Jim. Don’t push me to go, please,” I beg.

Jim runs his hand through his hair and looks at me. “It’s abouthim, isn’t it? The man you left behind?”

Jim knows a little about my past, but I’d never mentioned Domenic’s name specifically, only that I had to begin my internship early due to a bad relationship. If he knew it was Domenic Reed, head quarterback for the Vixen Rapids, he would want all the gossip, and I’m not ready for that.

I can’t talk about it.

I’m too ashamed.

Not only did I run, but also, he wasn’t mine to be with.

Domenic was Sophia’s, Vixen High’s head cheerleader, and my best friend.

That morning, after a night of pure bliss, I’d run home, packed my bag, and left without a single word to anyone. I’d even left a note for my parents saying I’d be in contact and that my internship at Slade’s Photography was starting early because they needed me straightaway. I’d promised them I would call once I was settled into New York, and I did.

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