Chapter 213 Rubbing Salt Into The Wound [Part 1] [Bonus ]



Villain Ch 213. Rubbing Salt Into The Wound [Part 1]

The clock in the studio ticked towards 2:00 PM. The photoshoot finally came to an end. The tension in the air dissipated, and the crew members started to pack up their equipment, their movements accompanied by sighs of relief and the sound of zippers closing.

"Alright, everyone! That's a wrap!" the photographer exclaimed, clapping his hands together. His voice echoed through the studio, marking the end of the intense photo session.

Allen and Vivian exchanged glances, relief washing over their faces. The weight of their previous poses seemed to lift from their shoulders, and they relaxed their expressions, returning to their normal selves. Allen let out a deep breath, while Vivian brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.

The crew members, who had been diligently working throughout the session, breathed a collective sigh of relief. They put down their equipment and began to move around the studio, packing up their cameras, lights, and props. The air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and the buzzing sound of conversations.

Mr. Bell approached Allen and Vivian, extending his hand in gratitude. "Great job, both of you. Your chemistry was fantastic, and you brought the vision to life," he praised sincerely.

Allen shook Mr. Bell's hand firmly, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Thank you, Mr. Bell. It was a pleasure working with you," he replied.

"Yeah, it was an amazing experience," Vivian echoed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented team."

Mr. Bell looked intrigued by Allen's response. "Anyway… Allen, I must say your presence in front of the camera is captivating. If this collaboration goes well, I can definitely see the potential for future projects together. We can keep it flexible to accommodate your other commitments."

Allen rubbed his chin, contemplating the offer. "I appreciate the opportunity. While I can't commit to full-time modeling at the moment, I'm open to occasional collaborations. It would be a great way to challenge myself creatively and expand my horizons."

Mr. Bell nodded a hint of excitement in his eyes. "That's exactly what I was hoping to hear. We can work around your schedule and make it a mutually beneficial arrangement. I believe your unique perspective and style would bring something fresh to our campaigns."

"Hey, guys!" the photographer called out, catching Allen and Vivian's attention. "If you're curious to see how the shots turned out, I can show you some of the images on the camera screen."

Both Allen and Vivian eagerly nodded in agreement, their curiosity piqued by the prospect of seeing the results of their intense and captivating photo session. They made their way toward the photographer, who had set up a small display area with the camera connected to a screen.

Vivian's eyes lit up with delight. She leaned closer, studying each image with a mix of amusement and intrigue. "Wow, these shots are incredible!" she exclaimed. "I love how intense and seductive they look. It really captures the essence of the concept."

Allen, on the other hand, remained focused on the technical aspects of the photographs. He examined the sharpness, clarity, and composition, his analytical mind delving into the intricacies of the art of photography. His fascination with the technical details of the equipment couldn't be contained.

"What lens did you use for this shot?" Allen asked.

"I used a prime lens with a wide aperture to achieve that shallow depth of field and create a striking focus on the subject," the photographer explained, appreciating Allen's genuine interest. "It allows for beautiful bokeh and enhances the overall visual impact."

Allen's eyes widened with excitement as he absorbed the information. "That's amazing! And what about the lighting setup? It looks so perfectly balanced."

The photographer gestured towards the various lighting equipment scattered around the studio. "For this shoot, I used a combination of strobes and softboxes to create a dramatic yet flattering illumination. It helps accentuate the shadows and highlights, adding depth and dimension to the images."

The photographer, intrigued by Allen's passion for photography, asked curiously, "So, what got you interested in photography?"

Allen smiled, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Well, I've always been captivated by the power of capturing a moment in time. It's like freezing a story or an emotion. Plus, I love exploring the city and finding unique angles and perspectives to showcase its beauty. I started taking photos as a hobby, but it soon turned into a side hustle."

The photographer nodded. "That's commendable! It takes a keen eye and creativity to capture the essence of a city through photography."

Allen chuckled modestly. "Yeah, it's not much, but it helps cover my monthly personal expenses. It's like a little extra pocket money that I earn doing something I love."

"Have you ever thought about pursuing photography professionally?" asked the photographer, unable to contain his curiosity.

Allen paused for a moment, his gaze shifting as he contemplated the question. "Honestly, I've toyed with the idea. But for now, I'm content with it being a side hustle."

After a short discussion about the payment with Mr. Bell, they dispersed to change their clothes and remove their makeup. Allen and Vivian, both relieved that the intense photo session was finally over, exchanged a look of mutual understanding.

They stepped out of the bustling studio into the corridor, the sounds of their footsteps echoing against the walls. The thought of lunch crossed Allen's mind, and he turned to Vivian with a casual grin.

"So, how about we grab some lunch together? We've earned it after that intense photo session," he suggested, his tone lighthearted.

She nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Sure, Allen. That sounds like a great idea. I'm starving!" Her steps stopped. "But before we go, do you mind if I make a quick stop at the restroom? I'll join you in a minute," she requested.

Allen shook his head, understanding her need. "Of course. Take your time. I'll wait for you in the lobby," he replied.

"Okay." Vivian turned around and took a few steps toward the restroom, her attention was suddenly drawn to a figure emerging from the door. Her eyes widened in surprise when she recognized Sophia, who seemed to be lost in her own thoughts, unaware of Vivian's presence.

Vivian paused in her tracks, her heart pounding with mixed emotions. She couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction, realizing the perfect opportunity that had presented itself. A mischievous smile played at the corners of Vivian's lips as she decided to seize the moment. She would make it clear to Sophia that Allen now belonged to Vivian.

Without a second thought, Vivian made her way back to where Allen stood, a determined glint in her eyes. She approached him with a sense of purpose, her steps quick and deliberate.

"Did you forget something?" Allen questioned, his brows furrowing slightly as he tried to comprehend the sudden change in Vivian's demeanor.

But Vivian remained silent, her actions speaking louder than words. With a surge of boldness, she wrapped her arms around Allen's neck, pulling him closer to her. The height difference between them compelled her to rise onto her tiptoes, their lips meeting in an impassioned kiss.

Allen's initial surprise was evident, his eyes widening for a brief moment. However, he didn't resist the embrace, allowing himself to be drawn into the intensity of the moment. He was aware of Vivian's feelings for him, and this kiss served as a confirmation of their connection.

Sophia's steps faltered as she lifted her gaze, her eyes locking onto the sight of Allen and Vivian engaged in that passionate embrace. It was as if time stood still for a brief moment, freezing Sophia in her tracks. Her heart churned with turmoil, the calmness she had managed to find slipping away once more.