Page 31 of Playboy Billionaire

He’d only have to stick around tomorrow until they’d reviewed today’s shoot, unless they had to redo something, then he’d be a free agent until Monday. A whole weekend off. Maybe he could convince Penelope to take him up on his offer.

Like he was on auto pilot, his bike headed in the direction of his sister’s bar. A Faye fix was exactly what he needed right now. She always knew what to say to bring him back to earth. A couple of beers to drink a hard day off, then home. He didn’t go looking for this trouble but here he was.

16

Griffin slouched in his seat with his arms crossed as he watched the daily outtakes of their love scenes from the previous day. The raw unedited footage was good. Watching himself make love to Penelope onscreen was weird. He had to admit, they were convincing. Who was he kidding? Very little acting going on there. The heat was not feigned.

He glanced from the corner of his eye at Penelope, who sat next to him. Other than her balled up fists, she showed no outward sign of emotion. She appeared to be disengaged.

Stew sat sandwiched between her and the assistant director. Also watching was the director of photography, as well as first and second camera assistants. The script supervisor and her assistant were there as well. A few of the support crew had joined them out of curiosity. Dolly along with the rest of ‘The Glam Squad’ were in attendance.

Since the hotel had virtually become their studio, it served as their conference room, theater, the actors dressing rooms, cafeteria, and production headquarters. He was continually amazed by how many people were involved behind the scenes. From sound to special effects, visual effects, craft services and caterers, not to mention location managers and assistants, it was an impressive operation. He was excited to be a part of it all. There was a natural camaraderie from the common goal of producing a great film.

Griffin shifted slightly, leaning into Penelope’s shoulder. He wanted to see what kind of reaction he’d get. She stiffened and put space between them. He smiled inwardly. Not as detached as she’d have him believe.Good. Emboldened, he stretched his arms overhead then casually draped one arm along the back of her chair.

Leaning in, he whispered, “Have you thought about my proposition?”

“No,” she said, looking straight ahead.

His breath stirred her hair as he murmured, “Liar.” He saw a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

Noah sat in the row behind them and leaned forward to whisper, “Nice job you two. It’ll be a hard act to follow, but I’m looking forward to the challenge this afternoon.”

Griffin saw Penelope’s fists tighten and he turned his head to glare at Noah. “You could at least attempt to be classy.”

“Fuck you,” he hissed. “You think you’re some hot shot now because you’re the director’s new darling?”

Griffin shook his head in disgust and turned his attention back to the screen. They were reviewing the part where Bryan becomes angry with Sydney. Griffin thought they’d put out a good performance. Overall, once he’d adjusted to seeing himself, he could say somewhat objectively that they’d captured their characters.

When the video ended, everyone erupted in applause. “That pretty much sums it up. We have a huge hit on our hands folks,” Stew said, beaming.

Griffin said, “Hear that Pen? Not just a hit…but a huge hit.”

Ignoring him, Penelope stood and turned toward Stew. “I’m going to my dressing room. Page me when you’re ready to start shooting.”

“Don’t you want to join us at the buffet?”

“I’m not hungry, thanks.”

“You’ve got to eat.”

“I’ll eat an energy bar back in my room.”

“See you in about an hour then,” Stewart said.

She left without another word to Griffin. Noah chuckled, “Don’t take it personally. She can be one cold bitch.”

“Don’t ever call her that again or I’ll wipe that smirk right off your face,” Griffin said, steel in his voice.

Noah laughed. “You’re a fool if you think you have a shot at that. Dream on.”

“With you as her last lover, I’m not surprised she’s turned off by men,” Griffin said over his shoulder as he left the room.

* * *

Penelope practically ran to her dressing room. She closed the door behind her and sat in the chair facing her vanity. Between her dread of the upcoming scene with Noah and her aching response to Griffin, she was a ball of nerves. She ripped the wrapper from her energy bar with unsteady hands. She hoped the skipped breakfast was partially to blame for her shakiness.

There was a tap at the door and before she could respond, Jack, the script supervisor’s assistant walked in. He held out a bottle of water. “Here, the director said to keep hydrated.”

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