Chapter 15

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

" L et's keep it slow and simmering."

The dim glow of the overhead lights cast a warm amber hue across the set, softening every harsh line and creating an intimate space that felt worlds away from the cold, industrial landscape outside.

Holden checked the focus on the camera. In the sense, the two actors gave him nods of assent, their bodies already entwined in a pose of seduction and desire. Holden raised his hand to call action.

"Wait a sec." Angela walked into the shot, her dark hair spilling over her shoulders as she adjusted the props—a collection of Knotty or Nice's finest. She was meticulous, ensuring that each toy gleamed under the spotlights, their presence on the set not just seen but felt. Her fingers lingered on a device, her touch almost reverent, as if she could coax pleasure from the very air around them.

"Perfect placement, my love," Holden called out, his gaze fixed on her for a heartbeat longer than necessary. Her attention to detail never failed to impress him—on set, in the office, in their bedroom.

She blew him a kiss as she walked toward the camera and then out of shot. She came to stand behind him. Forever at his back, as well as by his side. The two of them were doing just as they had promised each other. They were taking the pleasure industry by storm. Holden with his films aimed at the female viewership and Angela with her line of adult toys for men.

Holden turned back to the actors. "Remember, this isn't just a quick romp; it's a journey. Every touch is a promise, every kiss a secret shared. Let them believe in your yearning."

On cue, the actors' kisses deepened, their hands exploring with carnal intent as they surrendered to the narrative Holden wove around them. They moved together, a flawless portrayal of sexual gratification that spoke volumes without uttering a single word. In moments, they were lost in a haze of passion, their movements looking less like acting and more like the real deal.

Holden stepped back, a sense of pride puffing up his chest. When he looked back at Angela, his pants tightened for the first time since the shooting started. Angela's focus was unwavering as she watched the actors interact with her toys. There was something about her—the way she owned her craft, her refusal to apologize for the pleasures she brought into being—that stirred something within him.

"And cut."

The actors untwined, their breaths mingling in soft laughter as they shared congratulatory touches, their rapport just as authentic as they'd portrayed. They had brought to life the very essence of what Knotty or Nice stood for—unabashed sensuality paired with a playful twist.

Holden was ready to test out ideas for next week's scene at home with his one and only costar. But when he turned, he came face to face with Troy Kringle, the man who had built an empire on the foundation of pleasure. Troy's eyes sparkled with the reflection of the festive lights that adorned the set—a nod to the holiday season—and his lips curled in a grin that could only mean he was more than pleased with what he'd witnessed.

"Looks like my investment is paying off, Mr. Tighe."

"Please call me Holden."

"Holden, your reputation precedes you, but seeing you work? It's clear you understand women's pleasure on a level most men—and women—can't even comprehend."

He knew his worth behind the camera, but recognition from the top brass was always a sweet cherry on top. "Thank you, sir."

"Call me Troy."

"Troy."

Troy held out his hand. Holden took it and shook firmly. Before letting go, Troy looked over at Angela.

"Best investment we've made this year." And with that, he turned and walked off set.

As the last of the lights dimmed and the hum of equipment subsided, Holden caught Angela's hand. Their fingers entwined as they stood on the set.

"Alone at last." The corner of Holden's mouth lifted in a half-smile.

Angela tucked a strand of her dark hair behind her ear, a casual gesture that inexplicably stoked the fire smoldering within him. In an instant charged with primal urgency, Holden turned to the woman who had claimed him body and soul. His hands found the small of her back, pulling her into his embrace as their lips met in a kiss that ignited every nerve ending in his body. Angela responded with equal fervor, her fingers threading through his hair, anchoring him to her. Then, just as quickly as he'd claimed her mouth, he let her go.

"What are you doing?" she asked, breathless.

"Double-checking that the cameras are off."

Angela tugged him back. "The cameras are unplugged. The lights are off. The door is locked."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm a scientist. Of course I'm sure. Now come here. I have a new prototype I want to test on you."

"Well, Dr. Prescott," Holden huffed playfully, "if it's for science."

"It's not just for science, Mr. Tighe. It's for our mutual pleasure."

If you loved the Kringle & Co holiday romances,

be sure and check out the Her Masters series,

which features a few more Kringle brothers!

CONTEMPORARY REVERSE HAREM ROMANCE

Masters of Restraint

Masters of Sensation

Masters of Play

Masters of Edge