One-on-One

Chapter 14: Behind the Lens

Amira set up her equipment in the cozy photography studio, the walls adorned with student artwork that showcased the vibrancy of campus life. A mix of excitement and nervousness fluttered in her stomach as she prepared for her photography project. Just the other day, her professor, Professor Adams, had announced a new assignment that encouraged students to capture the essence of their surroundings through personal stories.

"Find a subject that inspires you," Professor Adams had said, her voice ringing in Amira's ears. "Think about the stories behind the faces you capture. This is your chance to tell someone's story through your lens."

As Amira sat in class, she glanced over at Jordan. He caught her eye, and they exchanged a knowing look that spoke volumes. In that moment, Amira felt a spark of inspiration igniting between them, a silent agreement that they both wanted to explore each other's worlds more deeply.

Later that day, she met Zyair at the campus café. Her heart raced as she contemplated sharing the news. "Hey, so we got this assignment to find a subject for our photography project," she said, trying to sound casual. "I think I might focus on someone who really inspires me."

Zyair leaned back in his chair, a cocky grin spreading across his face. "Oh, you know I'm the perfect candidate. Just wait 'til I'm flexing these in the studio! It's gon have you drooling over me," He said, lifting his shirt and showing his abs. His confidence was palpable, Though the sighting was very much attractive, it made Amira's heart sink a little. She had been hoping to work with Jordan.

"Yeah, I mean, you'd definitely be an interesting subject," she said hesitantly, looking down at his abs. "But I—"

"Come on! Just imagine the shots we could get. I'll bring the energy, and you'll bring the talent. It's a win-win!" he interrupted, clearly excited about the idea.

"Right," Amira replied, forcing a smile. "That sounds... fun." She wanted to be honest and say she preferred Jordan, but the words got stuck in her throat. Instead, she nodded, feeling the pressure of Zyair's enthusiasm.

As they prepared for the shoot, Amira felt her excitement wane. On the day of their session, Zyair was more focused on performing for the camera than on being genuine. He posed effortlessly, flaunting his athleticism, but Amira found herself mentally wandering to Jordan, who was across the studio paired with Kira.

"Okay, Zyair, let's try to connect a little more," she said, trying to find that depth.

"What you mean? I'm givin' you gold here!" he shot back, irritation creeping into his voice. "You wanted a subject; I'm right here!"

Amira felt frustration bubbling inside her. "I know, but I'm looking for something deeper than just a pretty picture."

Zyair's demeanor shifted, annoyance replacing his earlier cockiness. "You think I'm just some pretty face? You don't get it, do you? This is me! You my girlfriend, You supposed to be capturing my essence!"

"Your essence? Or the image you want everybody to see?" Amira snapped, her heart racing. "You so wrapped up in your own hype, you can't even see what's real."

"Maybe you should be more grateful," Zyair retorted, his voice rising. "I'm givin' you a chance to work with someone who's actually relevant on this campus. I see you over there looking at Jordan anyway. What? You'd rather shoot him than me?"

The mention of Jordan hit Amira hard, an unexpected jolt of anger and hurt surfacing. "You think I wanna be with him? That's not it at all! But you actin' like you the only one who matters!"

"Why don't you just say it then? You ain't really into me, are you? You just usin' me to fill that fat ass hole in your heart." Zyair shot back, frustration etching deep lines on his face.

"Usin' you?" Amira's voice rose, trembling with fury. "I don't need you! It's all about you and your damn ego! I thought we had something, but I'm just another trophy to you!"

"Damn right, you are! If that's how you feel, then maybe I should've known better than to waste my time!" Zyair snapped, glaring at her, the tension crackling in the air.

"Go ahead and be the star you think you are! I don't need this shit!" Amira shouted, her cheeks burning. "I'm done with your bullshit!"

Zyair's jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with anger. "Oh, so you leavin' me now? Fine! Go find someone who would give you what you want! Maybe that Jordan will!"

"I will!" Amira exclaimed, tears of anger brimming in her eyes.

With that, she turned away, needing space to process the whirlwind of emotions. She stepped outside, her breath coming in sharp bursts, feeling the weight of everything crashing down on her.

Just then, Jordan walked over, concern etched on his face. "Hey, Amira, you good?"

She sighed, shaking her head. "Not really. Zyair and I just had a huge argument. I thought we could work together, but it's like he's more focused on bein' the star than on the project."

Jordan crossed his arms, nodding. "I get that. It's hard when someone's not on the same page."

"I feel bad. I wanted this to work, but..." She trailed off, glancing back toward where Kira and Jordan were chatting. "I just can't stop thinkin' about how genuine you are."

"Me?" Jordan asked and she nodded. "Genuine about what?"

"K-Kira." She said putting her head down embarrassed after even answering.

"Oh. Me and Kira... we just friends. We not a 'thing'."

"But...ya'll kiss—."

"I mean...let me be honest. We did, but we just friends...with benefits." He said

"Oh."

Jordan's eyes softened. "If you ain't feelin' it with Zyair, you don't have to stick with him. You can switch things up."

Amira felt a rush of hope. "You're right.I think I'd feel a lot more comfortable with you."

Jordan smiled warmly. "Let's do it!"

Later, Amira met up with Jada, who was majoring in sociology. They settled into a quiet corner of the café, and Amira couldn't help but share her frustrations. "Zyair and I clashed, and it just felt off. But I think I'm switchin' to Jordan for my project."

Jada raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Sounds like you makin' some moves! What's the deal with you and Jordan?"

"I don't know yet. It feels different with him. More real," Amira admitted, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Jada leaned in closer, lowering her voice. "Speak of the devil, a couple hours ago...this boy and I started texting. And girl he is so fine."

"Really? Who?" Amira asked, curiosity piqued.

"Just someone who gets me, you know? But it's complicated," Jada replied, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Amira nodded, feeling grateful for the connection they shared. As they talked about their lives, she realized she was stepping into a new chapter, one where she could explore her feelings without the weight of expectations.

With newfound determination, Amira felt ready to dive into her project and her feelings for Jordan, knowing that whatever happened next would be hers to shape.

———

Word Count: 1133

Mannnn😭 what yall thinking about that argument between Zyair and Amira?

Thank you so much again!!!! 💗