Page 15 of Playboy Billionaire

Looking pleased with herself, she said, “You make me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.”

He groaned inwardly,“You should feel like that Sydney, because you are. Your body is so lush.”Scene fades as the camera cuts,with him on top of her making passionate love.

Dead silence. Griffin was beginning to wonder if he’d bombed when Stewart stood up and began to clap, his eyes gleaming with excitement. After another moment the two producers joined him, “I knew it! You two are off the charts sexy!” the director said.

Griffin glanced around the table noticing that Noah’s lips were tight, and his face appeared pinched. Penelope kept her gaze lowered but her cheeks looked slightly pink. The producers were grinning from ear to ear.

“On to phase three as far as I’m concerned,” Stewart said.

Both producers nodded their heads in agreement, one adding, “That was sizzling hot. You two were combustible.”

Noah chimed in, “Yeah but he is a complete novice. No offense Griffin, but this is one of the leading roles. We can’t afford to have this film tank.”

“You’re right and that’s precisely why we need Griffin. It all makes sense. He is stunning, sex appeal up the wazoo, chemistry between him and Pen is undeniable, an unknown brings something special to the table. A blank slate if you will. No baggage attached. We’ll do a real scene tomorrow and if it’s even half of what I’m expecting, Griffin is the next Bryan Kent.”

Noah said, “Penelope we haven’t heard a peep from you. What do you think?”

Her eyes flickered with some hidden emotion. “I have my own concerns with casting Griffin. It’s going to be more work. He’ll be learning on the fly. It’s a lot to ask of him and of Noah and me.”

“They’re right you know,” Griffin said. “Look I’ll be the first to admit I’m in way over my head here.”

“Nonsense. You read beautifully. I think you were made for this part. We need someone that can hold his own and be believable opposite such star power. You’re it. I have an instinct for these things,” Stewart said.

“I’m just not interested. I’m sorry I wasted your time.” Griffin stood up to leave.

“I know this must be intimidating as hell, but we’re desperate. We’re already behind on shooting. Production got pushed back when the actor backed out. You can name your price.”

Griffin bit back a laugh. “It isn’t about the money, trust me on that.”

Noah sat with his arms crossed over his chest, while Penelope worriedly bit her bottom lip. Penelope spoke again, “I’ve changed my mind. I trust Stew. He’s brilliant and he’s never steered me wrong. I say we give it a try.”

Griffin’s eyes widened in shock. Was this the same woman who only minutes before had insulted him? “Why the change of heart?”

She shrugged one shoulder nonchalantly, “Stew’s right. We must put the film above our personal feelings. I don’t have to like my co-stars,” her eyes strayed to Noah, “I just have to be a professional and do my job.”

He sputtered, “You’re unbelievable. Two introductions and you’ve already decided you don’t like me.”

“I have my reservations yes, but again, I bow to Stew’s wisdom.”

“Gee thanks for the hearty endorsement,” Griffin said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. She looked away.

“Well I’ve put my two cents in, but I’ll respect your decision Stew.” Noah grinned, then said, “May as well give it a shot Griffin. If you like adventure, this will be the ride of your life.”

That jogged Griffin’s memory of why he’d even considered it in the first place. Boredom. Well hell, he’d sure got his adrenaline fix today. Despite major misgivings he heard himself say, “I guess I’m willing to go the next step. If you believe in me at least I can give it a try. If by some miracle this happens, I’d have to find a substitute golfer for a charity event I’m scheduled to participate in. If I can’t find one, I won’t accept the part.”

Stewart grinned, “Then I’d advise to start looking for a replacement now. After the run through tomorrow you can meet with our lawyers to go over the contract,” Stew said, beaming.

“My brother Kyle Bennett is a local attorney; we can meet at his office.”

“Perfect. If there are no objections, everyone here tomorrow, ten a.m.”

Penelope turned on her heel and left without saying goodbye and Noah cornered one of the producers for a chat. Griffin stood there at a loss until the assistant entered the room with a full script in his hand. He handed it to Griffin.

“Study your little heart out,” he said, eyeing Griffin appreciatively.

“Thanks. I’ll definitely be doing that. Don’t want to humiliate myself.”

Stewart turned to Griffin and said, “Start memorizing your next scene with Penelope, the one that comes after what you read today. I think it starts on page ninety-five. Don’t sweat it, just do your best. We’ll all be here to help you.”

---