Playboy Billionaire (The Carolina Series Book 3)

by Jill Downey

The corners of his eyes crinkled as he gave her a full-on thousand watt smile. She put a hand to her throat. “Fire alert! Damn Griff, you’re going to give me a heart attack.”

  He slung his arm across Dolly’s shoulders and gave her a brotherly hug. He happened to raise his eyes and caught Penelope watching them. She sent him daggers, then turned her back to him before continuing her conversation with their director. Geesh can I catch a fucking break with her?

  “Thanks for the pep talk Dolly. See you tomorrow.”

  “Yes, and I hope to see you at the cast party this weekend. It’d be a great way to get to know everyone a little better. We have a great pool and view of the ocean. We’re having The Hennessey Restaurant cater it and a chef on premises. It will be a hoot, I promise. This is a wild group when they’re not on the clock. You can bring a date if you want to.”

  “I’ll have to think about it, thanks.”

  “Welcome.”

  He smiled and felt a little lighter than he had before their talk. It was nice to know someone had his back. He felt awkward, like the new kid in school…an outsider most of the time. Everyone was cordial but he still hadn’t made any friends…until now. The olive branch Dolly had offered was a welcome surprise.

  “What was that all about?” Penelope asked.

  Dolly remained pokerfaced. “What was what about?”

  Penelope’s eyes narrowed, “Yeah right. You know exactly what I’m talking about. Your cozy little conference with Griffin over in the corner.”

  “I wanted to compliment him on his performance. You know you could be a little nicer to him. He’s new…doesn’t have any friends on the set. It’s got to be hard.”

  “He’s a big boy.”

  “Penelope quit being such a hard-ass. I think he’s struggling a little.”

  “Doubtful. He knows he’s got the world by the balls. He had the nerve to tease me about my embarrassment right before we shot the last scene.”

  “He’s being playful. Do you even remember what that’s like?”

  Penelope tilted her head and looked heavenward like she was pondering the question. “Vaguely.”

  “You’re too much. It’s obvious you have your mind made up about him but I, for one, plan on giving him a chance. I think he’s lonely.”

  “Wolf in sheep’s clothing. Be careful.”

  “You’re such a cynic.”

  Penelope sighed, “It’s been a rough day. I started this film on a deficit and it doesn’t take much to throw me off.”

  “Especially when it comes in the form of a six-foot blue-eyed Adonis! He’d throw me off too.”

  “Don’t be ridiculous.”

  “I know you. Don’t worry, it will remain our little secret. I want you to think about it from his perspective. You are every guy’s fantasy; you’re a huge star and he has to fall in love with you every time you do a scene together. You’re an actress and used to turning it off and on, but he’s had zero experience with that.”

  “He’s a guy, he has experience with that, trust me.”

  Dolly laughed, shaking her head, she said, “We can argue about this later, I am smart enough to know when to quit.”

  “Good. Let’s go home. I’m exhausted.”

  “Pizza sound good?”

  “Divine.”

  Dolly pulled out her cell, “I’ll phone it in now. The Pinot Grigio is calling.”

  “Yes, let’s get the hell out of here.”

  “Wine, pizza, pool.”

  “And no men.” Penelope couldn’t resist one last poke at her friend. Dolly might worry about her love life, or rather the lack thereof, but Penelope was burnt out on men. She’d been betrayed by men at every turn, beginning with her father’s abandonment then continuing with her first lover and finally by Noah.

  She had a sudden flash of shame as an image of her dirty little secret escaped from where she’d buried it. She hugged herself, running her hands up and down the cool skin of her arms. Breathe. Put that right back in the ancient history archive…where it belongs. Her body might be betraying her on set, but her mind was very clear about where Griffin Bennett fit into her personal life. Nowhere.

  11

  Griffin squeezed his motorcycle between two cars and pulled right up to the massive car port. He waited for his date to climb off before dismounting. She handed him her helmet and after securing it to his bike, he grabbed her hand, slipping it through his crooked elbow.

  “I’m just reminding you, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” Griffin said, for the third time.

  “I promise,” Isabella said, rolling her eyes.

  “No photographs and no autographs.”

  “Griffin we’ve been friends our whole lives, I’m not stupid. Why are you so nervous? You usually don’t care about what anyone thinks.”

  “I respect their privacy.”

  She flipped her hair back and smoothed down her sun dress. “Do I look alright?”

  Griffin’s gaze, hidden behind dark glasses, admired her classic beauty and elegance. “You look amazing. I really appreciate you doing this.”

  “Why wouldn’t I? I hope I can stay cool and nonchalant. You know, as if I see movie stars every day. Ain’t no big thing.” She giggled.

  Griffin was glad he’d made the last-minute decision to ask his old friend Isabella to tag along. Her fiancé, who was also one of his best friends, happened to be out of town on a business trip. She’d fit right in and he knew she’d have his back.

  The front door was unlocked, and they let themselves in and followed the music blaring from outside. Dolly greeted them from the back deck, “Come on out and join the party!”

  “Hi Dolly, this is Isabella.”

  Isabella smiled brightly and Dolly smiled back all the while sizing up Griffin’s date. She had immediately noticed the huge diamond sparkling on her ring finger. You could see the wheels turning as she tried to figure out their relationship.

  “Glad you could make it. I hope you wore your suits, if not it’s clothing optional.” She laughed at Isabella’s shocked expression. “Just kidding. Us Hollywood folk have to keep up with our free-spirited reputations.”

  “Fortunately, we came prepared,” Griffin said. He pulled his cargo shorts down at the waist giving her a glimpse of his swim trunks and unintentionally, a peak at his tanned and toned abs.

  He really liked Dolly. She was the exact opposite of Penelope. Warm, open and friendly. No guessing where you stood with her.

  “Fabulous. We’ve got about anything you might want to drink, and the grill master is barbecuing baby back ribs, chicken, and pork. There are servers carrying appetizer trays around and trays of mimosas, champagne, wine, and a bartender set up outside, coolers full of beer…like I said, whatever your heart or stomach desires. I don’t think I’ve forgotten anything. Oh, and the DJ takes requests.”

  “Sounds like you’ve thought of everything,” Griffin said.

  “We aim to please. If you don’t mind fending for yourselves, I’m going to go check and see how the chef is coming along with the sides.”

  “We’ll be fine. Come on Izzy,” Griffin said, taking ahold of her hand.

  Stewart spotted them and rushed over, greeting Griffin like a long-lost friend. “Hey buddy! Who’s your gorgeous date?”

  “Isabella meet the director, Stewart Abrams, Stew meet Isabella.”

  “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 on her. 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.”

  Penelope smiled, her voice naturally husky and inviting, “Thank you. Which one was your favorite?”

  “Surrender, for sure! The ending was a total surprise.”

  “That was one of my favorites. Have you been taken care of?”

  “Yes, we’re all set. I’m salivating for the ribs, they smell divine.”

  “I’ve been told that Chef Irvine makes a mean barbeque. I hope it tastes as good as it smells.”

  “I just sampled a shrimp appetizer, and it was scrumptious,” Izzy said.

  “I’m going to take a dip in the pool, either of you care to join me?” Penelope looked at Griffin with a challenging glint in her eyes.

  “I’ll pass for now, but Griffin feel free to get in. I’m fine to mingle.”

  “I’ll wait for you,” he said to Isabella.

  “I’m fine really. Go.”

  Penelope slowly untied her sarong and slipped it off, which had Griffin confused. Was she even aware that she made it look like she was doing a strip tease? She looked at Griffin from beneath her long lashes and held it out to him. “Could you hang on to this for me?” He nodded and slung the wrap over his shoulder.

  She walked away, arms swinging loosely as her hips swayed seductively. The skimpy bikini bottoms barely covered her luscious ass. Her long blond hair fell thick around her shoulders. Whether intentional or not, it had the desired effect and Griffin admitted to himself that he craved her. She was a drug he had to have. He’d never experienced anything like it. He wanted to bury his face between her thighs and make love to her all night long.

  “Oh snap! The ice maiden seems to have melted,” Izzy joked.

  “Must be the alcohol.”

  “Griffin, what are you waiting for? You’re nuts if you didn’t get that blatant invitation.”

  “I brought you here and you don’t know anyone. I’m not going to abandon you.”

  Ben Donavan, one of the set coordinators approached, and they got into an animated conversation about car racing and classic cars. When Griffin described his own collection, Ben raised his brows. “I guess that takes you out of the poor starving actor category.”

  Isabella choked on her wine. “Hardly. He comes from a very prominent real estate development empire. The Bennetts are pretty high up on the food chain in the south.” Griffin nudged Izzy with his elbow.

  “What made you decide to agree to doing the film, since it wasn’t for money?”

  Izzy answered for him, “He’s a thrill seeker…risk-taker…whatever you want to call it. Right Griff?”

  His attention had strayed to the pool, and she said, “Earth to Griff.”

  “What?”

  “Ben asked you why you had auditioned for the film. I told him you were an adrenalin junkie.”

  He grinned. “No lie, one hundred percent junkie. Hey, will you hold this? I’m going to take a dip after all.”

  She smiled at him and held out her hand. “Gimme.”

  He handed the sarong to Izzy, then unzipped his cargo shorts and stripped them off before tugging his black tee shirt over his head. He tossed them to the side in a pile.

  “What about your watch?”

  “Waterproof. You sure you don’t want to get in?”

  “I’ll pass. Ben will keep me company.” She held out her palm. “Sunglasses.”

  “Yes, Mom. Glad I brought you.” He grinned at her. “I’ll be back.”

  He walked confidently to the edge of the pool and dove in.

  12

  Penelope tried to tell herself she didn’t care that Griffin had a girlfriend, but she wasn’t very convincing. It could have been just her and Griffin at the party as far as her body was concerned. She was aware of him every single second…where he stood, who he was talking to, when he smiled, when he laughed, even when she wasn’t looking at him her body seemed to sense him.

  She caught him undressing out of the corner of her eye and her nerves tingled in anticipation. He was so tanned and muscular. His abs flat and ripped. He looked relaxed; his shoulders moved freely as he walked confidently toward the pool. The dusting of dark hair formed a tantalizing trail into his swimsuit. She couldn’t deny that he was a very sexy man indeed and he was waking up her libido big time. She was neither happy nor prepared for that.

  She watched him dive in and come up for air, shaking his thick hair out like a dog. He rubbed his eyes then glanced up, catching her staring. He flashed a dazzling white smile before going back underwater, then popping up right beside her.

  “Hey, great party,” he said. He looked deeply into her eyes and her body tingled.

  “The producers are footing the bill.” She was dying to brush away the stray lock of hair that dripped water across his forehead. She bit her bottom lip. His eyes darkened as he stared at her mouth. She felt her center heat with desire.

  Griffin reached out and traced her lips with his finger. “You’re so beautiful.”

  She blinked, startle
d that he’d touched her.

  The corners of his eyes crinkled as he studied her. “Don’t look so surprised. I’m not immune.”

  Her lashes fluttered, “Is that so? I’d have never guessed.”

  “Really? Have you ever met a man who was unaffected by you? And what was that show you put on a few minutes ago? Why the turn around? I thought you didn’t like me?”

  “I don’t like or dislike you, I’m indifferent. I don’t know you.”

  “Hmm, indifferent huh? Would you like to…know me?”

  “I suppose it’s inevitable isn’t it?”

  He glanced over her shoulder and she turned as Noah swam over. He nodded. “Griffin.”

  “Hey Noah.”

  “Penelope, can I get you a drink? Rumor has it the barbeque is done,” Noah asked.

  “I’ll have another vodka and tonic when I get out of the water. Twist of lime.”

  “Babe, don’t you think I know what you drink?” he slung his arm across her shoulders proprietarily.

  “Has the acting bug bit you in the ass yet?” Noah asked Griffin.

  “The jury is still out.”

  “I think you’re killing it. Just don’t go getting confused between fantasy and reality…it’s not easy playing opposite a babe like this.”

  Griffin’s eyes narrowed and he said, “I guess you’d know. Got any pointers about that?”

  Noah laughed. “Good comeback. No, the lines can get blurred sometimes, can’t they Penny?”

  She shrugged out of his embrace. “I’m getting out.”

  Griffin’s eyes glittered as they met hers. “Nice talk.”

  “I’ll save you a rib,” she laughed. “Your girlfriend seems nice.”

  “She is.”

  She dove underwater and swam to the shallow end. Her bikini bottom had ridden up her crack and she hooked her finger to tug it down. Her breath caught when Griffin snuck up behind her and said softly, “Need any help?”

  Her cheeks grew hot. “No thanks. I doubt your girlfriend would appreciate you groping my ass.” Then she climbed up the pool stairs and onto the patio.

  She had never been this turned on by someone. Griffin Bennett. Noah was right. She couldn’t afford to blur the lines. She’d have to be very careful. They needed chemistry for the scenes to come alive and to be believable, however she had to remember that they were actors. In real life she was far from interested in pursuing a relationship with the gorgeous playboy.