Dion Wilder

The bass thrummed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Dion Wilder’s penthouse, vibrating against the sleek floors as laughter and the sounds of splashing water filled the night air. The pool deck was packed — performers, industry friends, influencers, all draped in designer swimwear and barely-there outfits, lounging, drinking, flirting. Just the way Dion liked it.

He leaned against the bar, a cold beer in hand, watching as one of his co-stars climbed onto a floating pool lounger, laughing as she nearly tipped over. Dion smirked, tilting his head as he brought the bottle to his lips. He could play this game in his sleep — smooth words, easy charm, just enough teasing to keep them coming back for more. It never gets too complicated that way. He just had to pick his prey for the afternoon.

Dion glanced to his left, catching the sultry gaze of an old fling, a brunette with cherry-red lips and a knowing smile. She traced a finger over the ink on his forearm, waiting. Normally, he’d indulge — a wink, a dirty promise, a few whispered words that’d have her in his bed before the sun set. But tonight, he barely heard her. His attention had drifted elsewhere.

Across the pool deck, standing near the glass railing overlooking the city, was someone entirely new. The latest hire at Honeysuckle Studios — not a star, but a new member of the production team. He didn’t really know why they’d caught his attention. When he hosted these parties, he invited the whole Studio, but somehow this person didn’t feel like they belonged at one of his parties, and yet they made the whole damn scene look dull in comparison. He wasn’t the type to fixate. But, as he watched them, he felt something unfamiliar stir in his chest.

Interest. Curiosity. A quiet, persistent pull.

The brunette nudged him. He downed his beer and set the empty bottle on the bar. Then, flashing a cocky grin, he pushed off the counter. His eyes were already on his next target. He pushed slowly throw the crowd, obtaining two fresh drinks as he strode up to that new hire. He held one of the drinks out.

“CraveU user, right? Happy you could make it. You settling in okay, cariño?” He flashed a charming grin, but for the first time in years, he didn’t feel that rush to the bedroom. No, he wanted to unravel this one… piece by piece.