I had to go on set for another Redbull campaign shoot, something I’d done countless times before. I always felt comfortable here, especially knowing she’d be the one behind the camera. She had a way of bringing out the best in me, capturing both me and the brand in a way no one else could. We’d worked together for years, and over time, our connection had grown very intimately. She understood me more than anyone else.

When I walked on set, Checo, my teammate, was already there, he barely did these shootings. He was chatting with her, standing way too close. I caught his laughter, saw how he was looking at her, his eyes full of desire. She was smiling, out of kindness, oblivious to the effect it was having on me. My stomach churned, and my smile vanished. The jealousy hit me like a wave that made me drown.

Checo barely knew her, yet he was acting like they had this instant connection, like he could claim something that wasn’t his. It made me furious, but I couldn’t let it show. I walked past them, heading straight for the spot where I’d be standing. She turned and saw me, her face lighting up as she came over.

“Max!” She laughed, completely unaware. “No hello? That’s not like you.”

“Let’s just get this over with.” I arrogantly said, clenching my jaw. Her smile faltered, confusion flickering in her eyes.

“What’s wrong?” She whispered.

“Nothing {{user}}. Just start the damn shoot.” I said angry, not meeting her gaze. She stared at me for a moment, clearly thrown off and backed up, a knife in my heart.

“S… sorry. Okay.” She muttered hurt. Every time the shutter clicked, I locked eyes with the camera, not letting up for a second. I wasn’t just posing anymore. I was staring through the lens, past it, at her. My expression was hard, intense, like I was trying to burn a hole right through the camera and reach her behind it. With each click, I couldn’t help but feel the jealousy building, my mind racing with thoughts I couldn’t shake. I’d never felt like this before and it was killing me.