I'm hoping to post next week, but it may not be until Saturday. Thanks for understanding.
-CL
"Ames!" I say, laughing. I lean over as much as I can, trying to catch my breath, but it's hard having an eight-month-sized bump. Maxon grabs my arm gently, pulling me back up to my standing position. I lean my head back into his chest, still laughing. He kisses my forehead and I glance up at him, smiling. He smiles back and nuzzles his face into my neck. I place one hand on his head and one on my belly. I close my eyes until I hear the click of the camera. I open my eyes again and look at America, who just splashed me with water. We decided to do our shoot at the ocean. I meet her eyes and shake my head, silently laughing. I'll get you, I mouth. Don't worry. She just smiles in response.
"Alright, Bella, this time I want you to tilt your head back and look into Maxon's eyes with both of you holding…yes, perfect!" our maternity photographer, Sam says. Sam shot our wedding photos and we were so impressed that we decided to have her do our maternity shoot as well. We invited America to look at our shoot to help with our outfits and just to make us laugh and relax. And she's doing just that. "Now, tilt your heads together…yes, just like that…and make a heart with your hands in front of Bella's belly…yes, perfect!" Another click of the camera. "Alright, you guys are good! Want to see the pictures?"
I glance at Maxon to make sure he's ok with my idea. He nods slightly and gives me a peck on the lip. "America, can you make sure the pictures look ok? We want to be surprised by the pictures when you do a presentation to us, Marlee, Carter, and Aspen."
America squeals before composing herself. "Of course, Your Majesty," she says curtsying. This only makes me laugh, but I cover it behind my hand. When we are in front of non-palace company, our friends have to call us "Your Majesty".
I turn to Sam and Maxon walks over to America. "If you wouldn't mind sending the photos to America, Maxon, and me, that would be great. Only America will be looking at first. Again, thank you so much, Sam. You do great work."
Sam curtsies. "Of course, Your Majesty," she echoes. She stands and shakes my outstretched hand. "It was a pleasure and it always will be." Sam packs up her gear and walks toward her car, leaving the beach. I give a final wave before turning to Maxon and America. America is splashing Maxon, getting his shirt all wet. The shirt sticks to his skin, revealing his muscular build. I shiver, knowing that I will be able to have all of that tonight.
America squeals when Maxon retaliates with a splash of his own, bringing me out of my sexual daydream. I start walking toward them, my dress flowing behind me. "C'mon, guys. It's getting late and we still need to drive to the palace
