Chapter 53

Alfred kept pleading, promising not to take the pills anymore. The studio was filled with the sound of shutters snapping. The photographer called out, "Move in closer. The bride's pose is too stiff—get closer! Groom, hold the bride by the waist." The poses grew increasingly intimate as the session continued. Jolene's face flushed with a deep red, as if she had applied the brightest blush. She stepped closer, almost falling into Steven's arms. Steven's palm pressed tightly against her waist, his touch burning hot. The photographer snapped several more shots. "Next pose. Bride, face the groom. The two of you should embrace, with your foreheads touching." Given the groom's situation, the photographer had Jolene stand in front of Steven. They were to hold each other as she bent down to touch her forehead to his. Jolene's face was flushing red. "Mr. Welsh," she pleaded coquettishly for help. "Just bear with it." Steven's eyes gleamed with a subtle smile. "Come on." Steven pu