But seeing it in person…
Focus on your bruise. Your hair. Anything else.
It’s no use. I can see why he was hired now. Not for his line delivery, but for the way he moves.
He’s in the middle of a complex fight sequence, the bandit ambush scene, facing off against four attackers at once.Mesmerizing. Each strike and defending block flow into the next like liquid mercury.
I swear a droplet of drool is hanging from the side of my mouth.
Why is the sweat on the back of his compression shirt so…attractive?
No. It’s gross.
Ew, men.
He moves again, muscles shifting as a stuntman lunges. Dante pivots seamlessly, blocking the attack while simultaneously disarming another. He shoots me a glance—none of that winking or smirking, but something heated before he looks away.
It’s like watching a deadly dance.
I need to get to that level.
Maybe his helping me wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world?
The pros are undeniable. His athletic background speaks for itself. He’s mastered his craft in a way that could elevate my performance beyond what any training with Nick could achieve.
But the cons…I’ve dealt with enough guys like him in Hollywood to recognize the warning signs. The constant flirting, that playboy reputation, the way he seems to treat everything like a game.
Can I trust someone who appears this unserious to take my training—to take me—seriously? Even if his dedication to his sport suggests otherwise, getting involved with him in any capacity feels like asking for complications I can’t afford.
I’ll master this blade, this role, this transformation. And if my heart tries to lead me astray? Well, that’s just one more opponent to defeat.
Chapter 6
Reese
August 19th
BREAKING: A-List Star Reese Sinclair Rejects Lead Role in a Cozy Holiday Romance—Sources Say “Grumpy Veterinarian Meets Single Dad Reindeer Ranch Owner” Plot “Too Predictable”
The metal breastplatedigs into my ribs with each breath, and I’m seriously questioning why Felix thought this Xena Warrior Princess look was appropriate.
Sculpted metal boobs?Check.
Exposed midriff?Check.
Leather miniskirt that rides up every two seconds?Double check.
I didn’t sign up for this. Who in the wardrobe department thought this was superior to the jumpsuit costume I tried on during my fittings in LA?
“Would you focus?” I snap at Dante, who’s busy flashing his playboy smile at the nearby crew. Per Felix’s instructions, they’re resetting Robyn’s village for the third scene of act one—where Robyn stands up to the sheriff for the first time. “It’s your line after I pick up the weapon.”
He turns his devastating grin toward me, looking criminally good in his sheriff’s getup—a weathered leather vest that hugs his broad shoulders, kohl-lined eyes that promise trouble. My stomach does an inconvenient flip.
“I think I need another glance at that script,” he says.
“It’s one line, Mr. Hastings,” I frown. “You don’t need to look at the script.”
“Wait, that’s not your sword.” He stares at the weapon in my hands, then slowly shifts his golden eyes back to me, deliberately lingering on my lips for just a moment too long.
