Page 7 of My Playboy Neighbor

"Yes.There will be studio time, but mostly candid shots.You'll have full creative control, unlimited access, and whatever resources you need."Colleen paused."There is one condition."

Maya's stomach tightened."Which is?"

"Complete discretion.This project is confidential until we decide how to release it.No leaks, no behind-the-scenes shots for your personal portfolio, no sharing details with anyone outside this room.Can you do that?"

“Yes, of course.”

“Good. I’m hoping we can use some of your work from this project into a show at the Meridian Gallery.”

Maya forced herself not to react. Having her work displayed at the Meridian Gallery had been a dream of hers since she was a child.

“I’d like that,” Maya said, her voice husky.

"Good."Colleen's smile was satisfied."You can start tomorrow."

Chapter Three

Maya

Maya stood outside the resort's private photography studio.She'd spent the night tossing and turning, replaying every second of Dom's kiss, the way his hands had felt in her hair, the heat of his body pressed against hers in the hallway.

Professional.She needed to be professional.

The studio was a photographer's dream—floor-to-ceiling windows offering natural light, state-of-the-art equipment, and enough space to create any vision she could imagine.Maya had arrived early to set up, needing the ritual of checking her cameras and adjusting lights to center herself before facing Dom again.

"Hiding behind your equipment already?"

Maya turned at the sound of his voice.Dom leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, wearing dark jeans and a white button-down shirt that emphasized every hard line of his torso.His stare held amusement and something darker that made her pulse quicken.

"Just setting up," she said, proud that her voice came out steady."Some of us actually prepare for our work."

Dom's laugh was rich as he stepped into the studio, moving in a way that made her think of a large panther."And some of us have been doing this long enough to know the equipment is only as good as the person behind it."

He was testing her, Maya realized.Seeing if she could be intimidated.She lifted her chin, meeting his gaze directly.

"Then you should have nothing to worry about."

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