Chapter 1

< Hi there! This is the author speaking. I'm new to writing and this is my first attempt at a romance novel. I'm open to any critiques and advice you may have, but I kindly ask that you be supportive and not harsh. Furthermore, I hope you enjoy reading my work. Let's get started! >

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the small town of Austin, Texas, a sense of tranquillity settled over the neighbourhood. The residents of the quaint houses on Elm Street had all retired to their homes, content in the knowledge that another day was done.

On one such house, a veranda stretched out from the front door, providing a perfect spot for a man to sit and enjoy the evening air.

Jack Brooks, a ruggedly handsome man in his late twenties, had claimed this spot as his own. He sat in his favourite rocking chair, sipping a cold beer from a can and watching the world go by.

As he rocked gently back and forth, Jack's eyes were drawn to the approaching figure. A woman, dressed in a flowy yellow sundress that seemed to glow in the fading light, walked up the sidewalk with a purposeful stride. Her dark hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her bright green eyes sparkled with an inner light. Her skin was illuminated by the fading light, giving her an ethereal quality that took Jack's breath away. Curiosity piqued, Jake stood up and walked to the edge of the veranda, waiting for the woman to approach.

As she reached the front porch, she smiled up at Jack and said, "Hello there, sir. I hope I'm not disturbing you. I saw your beautiful house and thought I'd stop by to take some pictures. May I?"

Jack's eyes narrowed slightly as he took in her request. He wasn't sure what kind of pictures she wanted to take, but he didn't want to be rude. "Well, I reckon that's okay," he said finally. "Just don't go too crazy with the flash, okay? It's getting on towards sunset."

The woman nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I promise I'll be careful," she said. "I just want to capture the beauty of this part of Texas before it gets too dark." Jack nodded, feeling a sense of pride wash over him. He loved his hometown, and it was nice to see someone appreciating its beauty too.

As the woman began to take her pictures, Jack couldn't help but notice how natural she looked in front of his house. She seemed to blend in with the surroundings like she had been there all along. He found himself watching her more than the sunset itself, fascinated by her poise and confidence.

The woman finished up her pictures and turned to Jack with a smile. "Thank you so much for letting me take pictures," she said. “Check them out!”, She walked up to him and showed him the pictures. “Woah! Are you a professional?” the pictures mesmerised Jack because they truly captured the true essence of nature, the sunset, its radiant beams illuminated the surroundings, and a magnificent and peaceful ambience enveloped everything around.

“No, it’s just a hobby of mine.”

“Pretty amazing for a hobby. Bet ya can make a corpse look beautiful in yer shot.” She tensed up for a bit and carefully looked at Jack, who was busy looking at the pictures. Understanding that it was a careless remark she smiles, "I promise I'll send you a copy of my favourite shot."

Jack nodded, feeling a sense of warmth spread through his chest. "I'd like that. In fact,…" he paused, “I was searching for a photographer to take pictures for business advertising. Seeing yer work, I can’t think of anyone else to ask. Will ya help me? I’ll pay ya as well.” She took a few seconds to think before extending her hand,” I’ll take you up on your offer.” Jack grinned and took her hand into a handshake, “Thanks a lot, Miss? "

“Emily Rose.” She replied as she took in Jack’s rugged looks and sharp features for the first time. He had piercing blue eyes and blonde hair fell across his forehead in messy waves. His skin was smooth and unblemished, with a subtle golden glow that seemed to come from within. She blushed as she took in his chiselled features and strong jawline.

“Nice to meet ya, Emily Rose. I’m Jack Brooks.”

They broke off their handshake, but both started to miss the touch of the other already. After that, they exchanged contact details and got engaged in a conversation. Then when it got darker, Emily left Jack with a promise to meet soon.

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