Page 60 of The Stud

“Yeah.”

“Is this some new torture tactic you are testing?”

“No.”

“Some sort of game mentality patience you’re strengthening?”

“No.”

“Some metaphorical representation of our relationship?”

“We don’t have a relationship.”

“We don’tnothave a relationship.”

We most certainly do.

It’s just a wee bit more complicated than any other I’ve ever had.

All of a sudden, a leggy, long nosed, blonde production staff member pops up into the conversation with a small wicker basket full of beanbags in hand. “For the scene.” I slide my phone into my dark ripped jeans and transfer the object into my possession. “And don’t drink the beer.”

“Why?” There’s no stopping my head from tilting to the side in curiosity. “Is it poison?”

“It’s a prop.”

Arden sassily waves a hand in the air to indicate that was the point she was trying to make.

“Understood.”

“Your scene partner should be here in the next ten to twenty. Try to stay in one place until then.” She taps a button on her headset and spins on her heels to return the way she came. “What do you mean the app is gone? He wasn’t supposed to actually eat it!”

Snickers escape as Arden drops her hands onto her teal, yoga pants covered hips. “Remind me whyI’mhere again?”

“My agent-”

“The one you share with Peck?”

“That Peck shares withme.” I playfully scowl in between statements. “Booked me this promo deal with the league endorsing insurance coverage or some shite.”

“That’s whyyou’rehere.”

“AndImay have suggested to Hot Rocket that showcasing some exclusive behind the scenes footage would be a brilliant idea for the docuseries.”

“Of course you did.”

“I will take any excuse available thatforcesyou to spend time with me.”

“Because I don’t spend enoughwillingly?”

“Correct.” We exchange a couple of small snickers that are followed by me kicking my head in the direction of the board. “How about a roundskie, aye?” Carefully placing the basket beside the wall, I was just occupying is done during her closing of the distance. “Show you another way I keep my mitts so silky?”

“Is there a sport on this planet you arenotwilling to play?”

“All sports are given equal opportunity to be appreciated.”

“Least favorite?”

“Korfball.”

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