Page 46 of Playboy Billionaire

“You’re taking this too lightly,” Stew said.

“It’s an intimidation tactic. It’s not going to work.”

“Penelope, we have to take all threats seriously. We don’t know for certain who left this for you. I’m going to have everyone keep their eyes open for anything unusual. I should have had the meeting last Friday after the firing, but a lot of people had already left for the weekend.”

After Stewart was satisfied that everyone available was present, he pulled out the magazine and held it up for them to see. “This piece of smut was slipped underneath Penelope’s door sometime between Friday and this morning when she showed up for work. I don’t think I need to emphasize the seriousness of this.” He passed it around for them to get a better look.

“What many of you might not know is that I had to fire Jack Feldner on Friday for making aggressive and inappropriate physical advances toward Penelope. We have no evidence that he’s responsible for this lewd display, only strong assumptions. However, he is no longer welcome or allowed anywhere near this building, Penelope or any off-site film locations. If anyone sees or hears from him, you are to report it to me immediately. Are we clear?”

Everyone nodded, some of them wearing shocked expressions. “Now, I’d like to hear from you. Did anyone see Jack anywhere near here after three on Friday?”

Someone from set design volunteered, “I saw him in the afternoon, not sure when. We spoke and he seemed normal, so I’m sure it was before he was fired.”

Stewart nodded, “Yes, he was quite angry when he left. Stormed out in a rage. Just stay alert. We always need to be on the lookout, not just over this incident. It’s important we look out for one another. If you see someone or something out of place, pay attention. That’s all for now. Any questions?”

Everyone seemed concerned, a few shook their heads, and some stopped to offer their support to Penelope before heading back to their tasks.

Stewart sat down next to Penelope, “How are you feeling?”

“To be honest, I’m a little embarrassed over the attention we’re giving it. I think everyone is making a bigger deal out of it than it deserves. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the concern and don’t mean to sound ungrateful.”

“You can never be too cautious. Doesn’t hurt to have everyone looking out for anything out of the ordinary. With the pandemonium of production at times, the more eyes the better. It’d be easy to slip something by.”

Griffin who had been quiet until now said, “Stewart, what do you think about hiring additional security?”

“I’ve thought about it and already made the call.”

“I think she should have a guard stationed outside of her house.”

“You can’t be serious!” Penelope exclaimed.

“Dead serious,” Griffin said.

“I have to agree. You’re used to security on your publicity tours. It’s not so bad. The peace of mind far outweighs any inconvenience. You won’t even know they’re there.”

“Easy for you to say,” she said, her lips tight.

“I know you think it’s overkill, but I’m beefing up security…and someone will escort you to and from the set and be stationed outside your residence for now.”

Griffin reached for her hand and she pulled it away.

Stewart quickly glanced at his watch. “We’ll take a short break now, then we’ll caravan to the beach location set. You’ve got fifteen minutes.”

The door closed behind him and Griffin took Penelope’s chin in his hand and said softly, “You okay?”

“Yes, I just wish you hadn’t involved Stewart. It was high-handed.”

“I tend to take threats against the people I care about seriously.”

She looked up at him through her lashes. “I know you mean well, but there is so much in my life that’s controlled by others…it’s overwhelming at times.”

“When you put it like that…I understand a little better.”

“I hope so. I’m not trying to be difficult.”

“I’m sorry Penelope, I shouldn’t have gone to Stew behind your back. Forgive me?”

She bit her bottom lip and nodded.

---