Love’s lens

Chapter 1: The Lens of Love

Max Wells gazed out at the vibrant Portland cityscape, his mind wandering to the upcoming wedding he was planning. As an event coordinator, he took pride in his work, but this particular wedding held a special significance. His best friend, Ruby, was finally tying the knot with her soulmate, Anita.

As he sipped his coffee, his thoughts drifted to his own love life – or lack thereof. After a string of failed relationships, Max had given up on the idea of finding "the one." His focus was on building a successful career and supporting his close-knit community of LGBTQ+ friends.

Just then, his phone buzzed with a text from Ruby: "Hey, Max! I need a favor. Can you meet me at the venue today at 2 PM to discuss the final details?"

Max smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and purpose. He was ready to dive into the challenge and create a magical experience for Ruby and Anita.

As he arrived at the venue, Max was struck by its beauty. The elegant chandeliers, the lush greenery, and the soft music created a romantic ambiance that filled his heart with warmth. He spotted Ruby and Anita, beaming with happiness, and his eyes welled up with tears. He was honored to be a part of their special day.

Just then, a tall, handsome stranger caught his eye. Finnley "Finn" Thompson, a billionaire and friend of Sophia (Anita's sister), stood confidently, surveying the space with a critical eye. Their gazes met, and Max felt a jolt of electricity run through his body. He quickly looked away, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves 

Finnley "Finn" Thompson, a billionaire and friend of Sophia (Anita's sister), stood confidently, surveying the space with a critical eye. He had only come to the wedding because Sophia was his business partner, and his girlfriend, Victoria, had insisted they attend. Finn wasn't one for sentimental gatherings, but he had to admit, the venue was impressive.

As he scanned the room, his gaze met Max's, and he felt a sudden discomfort. Max was staring at him with an intensity that made Finn's skin crawl. He quickly looked away, focusing on the champagne in his hand.

Finn wasn't used to being the center of attention, especially not from someone as...obvious as Max. He had always kept his personal life private, and the last thing he needed was some eager event coordinator eyeing him up and down like a prize to be won.

He excused himself, making a beeline for Sophia and Victoria, who were chatting with the bride and groom. Finn forced a smile, trying to shake off the feeling of unease that lingered from Max's gaze.

"Hey, Ruby, Anita," Finn said, his voice firm and commanding. "Lovely to see you both. Victoria, you look stunning, as always."

Victoria smiled, her eyes sparkling with affection. "Thanks, Finn. You don't look so bad yourself."

Finn raised an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on Victoria's beautiful face. He was grateful to have her by his side, and he knew she felt the same way about him. They were a power couple, and no one could ever come between

As Finn joined the conversation, Max couldn't help but notice the way Victoria leaned into Finn, her hand possessively on his arm. Max felt a pang of discomfort, realizing that Finn was clearly taken. He tried to shake off the feeling, focusing on the wedding details instead.

Ruby, noticing Max's distraction, nudged him playfully. "Hey, Max, let's get back to work. We have a lot to do before the big day."

Max nodded, grateful for the interruption. "Right, sorry about that. Let's finalize the seating chart and—"

Finn's voice cut in, his tone commanding. "Actually, Max, I need a word with you."

Max's heart skipped a beat as Finn's gaze locked onto his. "Oh, sure, what's up?"

Finn's expression was stern. "I want to make it clear that I don't appreciate the way you've been looking at me. I'm here for Sophia and Victoria, not to be ogled by the help."

Max felt a flush rise to his cheeks as the room seemed to grow quieter. "I-I apologize if I made you uncomfortable, Finn. That wasn't my intention."

Finn's gaze lingered, his eyes piercing. "See that it doesn't happen again."

With that, Finn turned back to Victoria and Sophia, leaving Max feeling like he'd been reprimanded. Max tried to shake off the unease, but he couldn't help wondering what he'd done to deserve Finn's ire 

Max felt a sting from Finn's rebuke, but he tried to maintain his professionalism. "Of course, Finn. I apologize again for any discomfort."

As the conversation continued, Max couldn't help but notice the way Finn's eyes seemed to bore into him, as if daring him to make another mistake. Max felt a shiver run down his spine, but he refused to back down. He was here to do a job, and he wouldn't let Finn's intimidating gaze get in the way.

As the meeting concluded, Max breathed a sigh of relief. He had survived the encounter, but he knew he wouldn't soon forget the way Finn had made him feel.

As he began to pack up his things, Ruby approached him, her voice low and concerned. "Hey, Max, are you okay? That was pretty intense."

Max forced a smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little taken aback, that's all."

Ruby nodded sympathetically. "Don't worry, Max. You're doing a great job. Don't let Finn get to you."

Max appreciated Ruby's support, but he couldn't shake off the feeling that Finn had left an indelible mark on him. He wondered what the rest of the wedding planning process would be like, with Finn watching his every move.

As he left the venue, Max couldn't help but glance back at Finn, who was still standing by the bar, his eyes fixed on him. Max felt a shiver run down his spine, and he quickly looked away, wondering what the future held for him and the enigmatic Finn Thompson 

Chapter 2: A Glimpse of Vulnerability

Days passed, and Max found himself thinking about Finn more often than he cared to admit. He tried to focus on the wedding preparations, but his mind kept wandering back to the billionaire's piercing gaze and chiseled features.

One evening, as Max was working late at the venue, he noticed a figure standing by the bar, sipping a drink. Finn. Max's heart skipped a beat as their eyes met, and for a moment, they just stared at each other.

Finn broke the silence, his voice low and husky. "Max, can I have a word with you?"

Max hesitated, but something about Finn's tone made him nod. "Sure, what's up?"

Finn walked closer, his eyes never leaving Max's face. "I want to apologize for my behavior the other day. I was out of line, and I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."

Max was taken aback by Finn's sudden display of vulnerability. "It's okay, Finn. I understand. You were j