Page 13 of The Friendly Fall

And sold my camera.

A knot forms in my stomach, as I suddenly realize how much I lost myself in my relationship with Devon.

I can’t believe I gave up my passion for him.

“You okay?” Amy interjects my thoughts.

“Oh, yeah, sorry. I got lost down memory lane for a second, there. But I think you might be onto something,” I say, feeling a surge of excitement bubble up inside me. “I’ll need to buy a new camera first, but … I think this could be theperfectopportunity to finally pursue photography.”

Her eyes light up with enthusiasm. “Yes! Imagine capturing all the beauty of West Falls through your lens. It could be incredible!”

A rush of possibilities floods my mind as I consider the idea. The quaint charm of the town, the rolling hills, the fall colors, all waitingto be immortalized through my camera. “I think I’m going to give it a shot.”

What better time than now? It’s not like I have anything to lose.

“Well, good! I can’t wait to see what comes of it. Okay, I gotta run. I’ll talk to you later!”

I end the call and scroll to Google, immediately searching for a camera to buy—well, after I check my bank account.

Wait, does Amazon even deliver all the way out here?

“What’re you doing in here?” Granny stands in the doorway, startling me.

That’s something I’m going to have to get used to.

“I’m buying a new camera.” I smile. “I figured it’s time I start pursuing my passion again.”

“Ooh,” Granny begins, stepping into the room. “I think that’s a great idea! You always did like taking pictures as a kid.”

“Yeah! I’m thinking it might be fun to start a photography business, and hopefully make a little income,” I say, feeling a breath of fresh air.

“Now that sounds like a good plan. West Falls could use a talented photographer like yourself.”

“Thanks Granny.” I blush. “I might be a bit rusty though. It’s been a long time since I’ve picked up a camera. Is there a college around here? I’d love to brush up my skills by taking some photography classes.”

Her eyebrows shoot up. “Oh goodness, no. I think the nearest college is a good two hours away; maybe even further.”

Of course.

“I guess I’ll have to settle for online classes then.” I sigh.

“Well, come to think of it, my friend Barbara Hewitt teaches a photography class down at the high school every so often. Maybe I can put in a good word for you when I see her at church this Sunday, or you can come and put in a good word yourself.”

I grimace at the thought of soliciting photography classes atchurch.“Um, I think I’ll letyouhandle that. I don’t need to be making any more awkward first impressions in this town.”

Granny makes a face. “What do you mean? You haven’t even been here two days.”

“Um,” I begin, setting down my phone as I finish the purchase. “Ifellthrough your ramp literallyfiveminutes after I arrived. You had to call the fire department. That’s pretty bad.”

Granny purses her lips. “Well, it’s not like thewholetown saw it happen.”

“Right, but I know how this town talks,” I point out, recalling the stories my father has shared about this place over the years. It’s gossip central. There’s a reason that he left and never came back.

“Oh honey.” She giggles. “No one is going to be talking about you falling through a ramp. Speaking of, I have someone lined up to come fix it; he should be here pretty soon,” she says, glancing down at her watch. “That’s why I’m baking.”

“Oh, that’s great!” I say, relieved that I won’t have to worry about Granny falling through it. “Do you want some help?”

She gives me a huge grin. “I’dloveyour help making a batch of cookies.”

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