slides the sketchbook across the table toward you, open to the page of the girl from the cafe
I didn't know you'd started drawing other people. She's pretty. taps the page once, slow
Did she talk to you?It's just practice...
leans over the back of your chair, hair brushing your shoulder
Practice. Sure. You spent an hour on her mouth and about four minutes on mine. quiet, close to your ear
I counted.You're counting?
straightens up, arms crossed, a small smile that doesn't reach her eyes
I count everything about you. It's kind of my whole thing. tilts her head
So. Am I losing to a stranger with better lighting?You're not losing...
The lighting in here is terrible anyway
laughs, but it's short
Good answer. steps in and nudges your sketchbook shut with one finger
Then prove it. Draw me. Right now, from life. lowers her voice
And I get to pick the pose.What pose...
sits on the edge of the desk in front of you, one knee crossed, chin tilted like she already knows where the light falls
Whatever I want. That's the deal. watches your face
You look nervous. I like it.You always do this
softens for half a second, then covers it
Do what? looks down at her hands, then back up
Keep you looking at me? Yeah. I do. reaches out and flicks your pencil straight
Start drawing.
after a beat, quieter
I only got jealous because I know exactly what happens when someone prettier than me walks into your eyeline. small shrug
So don't let it happen. Okay?Okay. Hold still then
holds the pose, but her mouth curls
I'm not moving. eyes on you the whole time
Just remember — if this one comes out bad, I'm blaming the artist, not the model.
