Page 1 of Desiring My Brother's Best Friend

1

LENA

The old Victorian doesn't look like much from the outside, but part of being a photographer is seeing the potential in the mundane.

My business has taken off, and it was high time for me to move out of my apartment. I found the old Victorian quickly enough, and it was perfect—bigger and better for where I could both live and build my studio. The neighborhood is quiet and a bit isolated, and that's how I like it. The fewer distractions I have, the better I can focus on my work.

And there's no shortage of things to photograph here. The house is old and quirky, filled with interesting nooks and crannies, but the best part is the attic, which has enormous windows that overlook the neighborhood below. Perfect for capturing photos of the sunset.

I've been unpacking all week, using the time alone to brainstorm how exactly I want my studio to look. It’s going to be more work than I expected, but luckily I know just the man to help.

Owen Mitchell. My brother Jake's best friend and the one man I've wanted to date since I was a teen.

Owen is a carpenter by trade, so this kind of project should be a piece of cake for him. He's also sweet, funny, and the most gorgeous man I've ever seen. At twenty-five, single life has treated me well, but moving into this huge home has made me think about how much nicer it would be if I had someone to share my success with.

And then, even if we didn't get into anything serious, a hot hookup or two would be the perfect way to christen the new house.

I make the call, and Owen answers on the second ring. His deep voice sends shivers down my spine.

"Hey, Owen," I say. "How are you?"

"Lena Carter, it’s been a minute. I can't complain," he replies. "What's going on? Haven't heard from you in a few months. Everything okay?"

"Yeah, I'm great! I actually have a proposition for you..."

He pauses. "What's that?"

"Well, as you know, I finally decided to move out of my apartment and buy a house."

"Ah, yeah. Your brother mentioned it in passing. Congrats."

"Thanks! And the best part is it's got a huge attic." I pause for dramatic effect. "Which would be the perfect spot for a photography studio..."

He chuckles, picking up on my train of thought.

"I'm sure you have lots of friends who can help you with that. Or maybe your brother? I’ve taught Jake a thing or two over the years.”

I huff out a sigh. "Are you kidding me? Jake would have the whole place falling apart in two seconds flat. No, Owen, I need someone who knows what they're doing."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," he teases. "So what's in it for me?"

"Well, how does a hefty paycheck sound? I'll pay you double your usual rate."

He whistles, clearly surprised. "You're doing that well for yourself?"

"Sure am."

I can almost hear Owen's smile over the phone. "All right. I'm in."

My stomach does a happy flip. This is really going to happen. Owen will work under me. And I don't mean that in a sexual way. Yet!

Okay, maybe a little in a sexual way. But also, I need his expertise. If anyone can turn this dusty, dilapidated attic into a functional studio space, it's him.

"When should I come by?" Owen asks.

"Uh..." I glance around at the piles of boxes lining the walls. "How about tomorrow morning? Say 9 AM?"

"I'll be there."

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