Page 23 of Playboy Billionaire

“Izzy is fine,” she said, holding out her hand.

“We’re so impressed with Griffin’s performance, it’s like he’s been acting his entire life.”

“I’m sure. I haven’t heard of one thing that he’s tried and hasn’t mastered. Multipotentiality. He’s certainly had nothing but positive things to say about how helpful everyone has been. Seems as if you’ve taken him under your wing.”

“We try. Please mingle…swim…drink…I’ll catch up with you later,” He was already moving off to greet one of the production crew.

“He seems nice,” Izzy said.

“Yeah, I like him.”

“Wonder where the big stars are hiding?”

“I think I spot Noah over by the hot tub.”

She sighed, “Oh my God. Pinch me. I’m really not dreaming, am I?”

“No, it’s for real.”

“He’s so sexy. I hope I can keep my tongue from hanging out.”

Griffin laughed, “Don’t embarrass me.”

He scanned the patio, not even realizing that he was searching for anyone until his gaze landed onher. Penelope. A Goddess. She wore a colorful sarong wrap, tied low around the swell of her hips, and a bikini top that she filled out to perfection. Her voluptuous breasts were practically spilling out. He sucked in a sharp breath.

“Griff what’s wrong?” Izzy followed his gaze and lighted upon Penelope. “Wow! She shines like she has literally been sprinkled with stardust! How the hell do you remember your lines working opposite that?”

He watched Penelope disappear into a screened gazebo, then said, “What did you just ask me?”

“Oh Griffin, you have it bad.”

“FYI, I’ve had a crush on her since the first film I saw her in, but the reality doesn’t live up to the fantasy. She’s as cold as the ice cubes in the drink I’m about to order. Speaking of…I’ll go grab our drinks, what would you like?”

“I think I’ll have a glass of white wine please.”

“I’m going for a bourbon on the rocks. I’ll be right back.”

Griffin might be the outsider here, but years of experience had taught him the way around a party. He’d been jet-setting since he’d been in diapers. On his way to the bar, he ran into a few behind-the-scenes workers and stopped to chat. Everyone was loose and informal, and Griffin found himself relaxing.

As he waited for the drinks, he overheard one of the crew say, “She’s actually in a relatively good mood today.” Griffin didn’t need to guess who they were referring to. He was relieved to hear that it wasn’t just him.

As he turned to deliver the glass of wine to Izzy, he practically bumped into Penelope. His body heated, immediately responding. Every other person at the party faded into the background.

She raised a skeptical eyebrow. “A two fisted drinker?’

Confused for a moment, he suddenly got it and said, “Um no, this is for my friend over there.” He nodded toward Isabella.

The ocean breeze blew tendrils of Penelope’s platinum hair across her cheek and she tucked it behind one ear. Her eyes were the color of jade today and now they sparkled with curiosity. “Your date?”

“Yeah I suppose you could say that.”

He knew he was crazy to think that he saw a hint of disappointment dance across her face before it quickly disappeared. She licked her bottom lip sending desire rippling through him. “Why don’t you introduce me?” she said.

He cleared his throat, “Sure, follow me.”

“Izzy, this is the one and only Penelope Winters. Penelope, meet Isabella Martin.”

The two women sized each other up. “I’ve seen every one of your films! I’m a huge fan.”

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