CHAPTER 72: NEW SHOOT

As the sun hung high over the resort, casting a golden hue over the luxurious surroundings, Anita stood at the edge of the infinity pool, adjusting her sunglasses.

The soft breeze carried the scent of the ocean, and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore provided the perfect ambiance.

The setup for the video shoot was already in place.

The resort’s staff had ensured everything looked pristine — the cabanas were neatly arranged, the pool shimmered under the sunlight, and the lounge areas were decorated to enhance the tropical luxury of Salt Heaven Resort.

Anita took a deep breath, rolling her shoulders back before looking toward her videographer. "Alright, let’s get started."

The videographer nodded, raising the camera as she stepped forward.

The first few clips were simple — her walking through the resort’s entrance, flashing a charming smile before turning her head slightly as if she were being caught candidly.

She paused at the poolside bar, ordering a tropical drink and taking a slow sip while the camera focused on the way the sunlight reflected in her glass.

She exuded the effortless luxury and charm that had made her such an influential figure on social media.

Every movement was calculated yet natural — brushing her hair behind her ear, looking out over the ocean with an almost dreamlike expression, then turning back to the camera with a playful smirk.

Maximus and Zack stood nearby, watching as the shoot unfolded.

"She’s good," Zack muttered under his breath, clearly impressed.

Maximus, arms crossed, nodded slightly. "That’s why we brought her in."

The next set of clips focused on the infinity pool.

Anita sat at the edge, dipping her feet into the water while swirling the surface with her toes.

The videographer moved around, capturing different angles — the luxurious backdrop of the resort, the crystal-clear water, and the way Anita’s confidence shined through the lens.

She picked up her phone, recording a short clip for her own story. "Guys, I can’t even begin to explain how stunning Salt Heaven Resort is. The view, the service — everything is perfectooo."

She winked at the camera before flipping it to show the pool behind her.

After a few more takes, she turned her head toward Maximus Zack, a playful glint in her eye.

"Maximus, join me for a shot."

Zack immediately let out a short laugh, nudging Maximus. "Looks like you’re in, buddy."

Maximus hesitated for half a second before exhaling through his nose, already knowing there was no getting out of it.

He stepped forward, rolling his shoulders before making his way to the edge of the pool.

Anita grinned as he approached, handing her phone to the videographer. "This one is going on my feed."

Maximus raised an eyebrow as he took a seat beside her, the warm stone against his skin contrasting with the cool water lapping against his legs.

Anita tilted her head toward him, making sure they were both in frame as the videographer started recording.

"Alright, everyone," she said, her voice dripping with playful excitement. "This is Maximus Prime, the man behind Salt Haven Resort. He’s been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this place to life, and let me tell you — it’s worth it."

Maximus gave a small nod, his expression neutral but composed. "Glad you think so," he said, his voice smooth yet controlled.

Anita nudged him lightly with her shoulder. "Come on, you could at least sell it a little bit," she teased before turning back to the camera.

"Seriously though, this resort is something else. If you’re looking for the ultimate getaway — luxury, peace, and exclusivity — Salt Haven is it. We’ll be launching at the end of this month so make sure to try and make reservations,"

The videographer signaled that they had enough footage, and Anita gave Maximus a satisfied smirk. "See? That wasn’t so hard."

Maximus let out a small exhale, shaking his head slightly. "I’m not used to being in front of the camera."

Zack, who had been watching the whole time with his arms crossed, grinned. "Yeah, because you prefer hiding in the background like some mysterious rich man."

Anita laughed, standing up and stretching. "Well, good thing I’m here to make sure people actually see who’s running the show." She turned to Maximus with an arched brow. "By the way, do you ever loosen up? Like, have fun?"

Maximus gave her a dry look. "I run a business. That’s enough fun for me."

Anita rolled her eyes but didn’t push further. "You really are the type to work yourself to death, huh?"

Zack clapped a hand on Maximus’s shoulder. "Trust me, I’ve been trying to get this guy to enjoy himself for months now."

Maximus ignored them both, standing up and rolling his shoulders. "If we’re done here, I need to check in with the staff before the launch date."

Anita raised her hands in surrender. "Fine, fine. But don’t blame me when this place goes viral and you have more attention than you know what to do with."

Maximus didn’t’t respond, but Zack chuckled. "That’s the point, isn’t it?"

As they wrapped up, Anita scrolled through the clips on her phone, nodding in satisfaction. "I’ll post this tonight. Expect the engagement to explode by morning."

Maximus gave a small nod. "Appreciate it."

"Also do you have a website where people can book reservations? I’ll need to advertise the link,"

Maximus chuckled nervously, it had slipped in his mind but Zack stepped forward, providing the link to a site that he had created for the resort, with this, anyone would be able to register and book passes for the opening date.

Anita grinned. "You’ll owe me dinner for this."

Zack whistled. "Damn, Maximus, she’s already charging you."

Maximus sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Let’s focus on getting through the launch first."

Anita only smirked. "We’ll see."

As she left with her team, Zack leaned toward Maximus. "You do realize you just got roped into a date, right?"

Maximus shot him a look. "It’s not a date."

Zack shrugged, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Whatever you say, man."

Maximus exhaled, turning toward the resort’s main building. "Come on. We have work to do."