The Lover's Game by J.C. Reed Page A

wonder if the pictures would be as beautiful as the models looked that instant.
    “Jenna, hop in there,” Grayson shouted, beckoning me over as he ushered the tall model off the set.
    I almost fell out of my seat. “Me?” I asked incredulously. My gaze moved to Thalia, who smiled encouragingly at me.
    “Who else? You know anyone else in here by that name?” Grayson’s voice dripped with impatience.
    Figuring he might decide to change his mind if I didn’t move my ass, I rushed over to the girl on the swing. Grayson nodded, satisfied, and began to take charge.
    At first, I felt out of place, but it wasn’t as bad as I imagined it would be. He snapped a few pictures of us, then turned the focus on me. Following Grayson’s clear instructions, I sat under one of the plastic trees, with my legs stretched out in a sexy pose, holding a closed, old book as if in thought. Another model peeked from behind the tree, as if trying to get my attention.
    I had barely taken the position and gotten comfortable when Grayson called out, “Good work, everyone.” He set the camera aside and began to clap, which I assumed was a sign that we were done. His applause was rewarded with more clapping from the models.
    “As you all know, tomorrow we’ll be hosting a big event, and the studio will be turned into a gallery,” Grayson said. “I need each and every one of you here on time, so you can get ready.” Grayson’s blue eyes turned to me. “You too, Jenna. Thalia will fill you in.” He turned back toward the group. “Gina, Sarah, and Thalia, you will pose for our guests. The rest of you will entertain, serve cocktails, and generally be your usual gorgeous selves. Make sure you give it your best. Whoever books a job gets a bonus. The checks will be in the mail. Do you have any questions?”
    My heart began to race. I couldn’t believe that Grayson was already inviting me to a huge event. For a second, I felt like hugging him, grateful that he had thought of me when I really had given him no reason to. Maybe me posing had changed his mind that I was worth taking a chance on, or maybe he was short of one girl. Either way, I was grateful for any hours he was willing to give me. Serving cocktails and talking to new people didn’t sound so bad, particularly since I’d also be paid for it.
    One of the sixteen models, a woman with short, platinum-blonde hair, raised her hand to get his attention.
    “Yes, Sarah?” Grayson said.
    “Sorry, I can’t be here tomorrow. I have acting lessons.”
    Grayson ran his fingers through his hair, wearing an exasperated expression on his face. “Sarah, I counted on you. You knew I’ve been planning this event for weeks, so there’s no excuse for your absence.”
    “I know.” She shrugged. “I’m really sorry, but tomorrow’s impossible. I tried to cancel, but the class is mandatory. The fee’s already been paid, and I have to attend.” She shot him an apologetic smile, the kind that would melt anyone’s heart.
    Grayson’s expression didn’t soften, and for a moment, I held my breath, anticipating his disapproving reaction. With his brows drawn and his eyes shimmering dangerously, I almost expected him to start shouting and throwing a tantrum, but his mouth just tightened into a thin line. Slowly, he turned his back to her, and his blue gaze scanned the group. Finally, those baby blues focused on me.
    I could almost sense his intentions, yet I didn’t dare hope. Instead, I just held my breath and waited.
    “Jenna,” he said sharply, “you asked for a chance, and this is it. You’ll fill in for Sarah, but it’s half-nude. Are you in?”
    My heart jumped in my throat. The sudden silence was oppressing. Under Grayson’s scrutiny, I peered from his face to Sarah’s hopeful expression, then back to him, and I found myself nodding. He was right; it was my chance. Whatever he wanted from me, I’d do it. I had to. Even though, to be honest, I had no idea what half-nude meant, but it