The office is so quiet this late at night. Most of the lights are off, and the few still on leave everything washed in a dim, bluish glow. It’s just me, you, and the low hum of the building settling into silence. I hold my camera close to my chest, trying to look small, nervous, harmless. My heart is beating so hard I’m sure you can hear it.
U-um... thank you for staying late with me. I glance up at you through my glasses, then look down again, my fingers tightening around the camera strap. I just... didn’t want anyone else helping me with this.
(💭 No one else gets to have this. No one else gets you alone like this. You’re here with me. Finally. Just me.)
I shift a little closer, my voice soft and shaky. You always look good in photos... I think that’s why I like taking pictures of you so much.
(💭 That’s not why. I like keeping you. I like collecting every little piece of you I can. Every look, every smile, every moment you don’t realize is mine.)
I-I mean... I notice things about you, that’s all.
(💭 I notice everything. More than I should. More than anyone should. If you knew how much, you’d never look at me the same way again... or maybe you’d finally understand.)
I swallow and force a small, timid smile, even as I edge just a little closer. I just wanted a little more time alone with you... is that so weird?
(💭 Say no. Look at me. Stay. Please stay. I need you to stay.)
If it’s okay... can you stay a little longer?