Vasti couldn't believe what had just unfolded. First came the anger—a hot, all-consuming kind. Adônis MacGyver had made it sound like she was plotting some scheme to trap him. As if she had seduced him just to back him into marriage.

Bastard! How could he accuse her of that? She flung her purse onto the couch, kicked her shoes aside, and stormed into the bedroom. "I never did anything like that!" I kept to myself, and he was the one who started all of this!

While peeling off her clothes, anger faded and shame took its place. Vasti swallowed hard. It was true—Adônis MacGyver had made the first move in that kitchen, but he hadn't pushed her into anything! She'd been swept up in the moment, and if she was honest, she'd jumped into his car with barely a thought, ready to give her virginity to a man she barely knew. Knowing his name and job didn't change that!

Vasti sat at the edge of the bed, buried her face in her hands, and tried to process what she'd done. What had she been thinking?

You weren't thinking! she muttered, scolding herself, and collapsed onto the mattress with a groan of frustration. Of course, he'd think she was setting him up. What sane person would do that?

Vasti tossed her clothes aside and stepped into the bathroom, hoping a shower would scrub away her shame. Afterward, she threw together a quick meal and fired up her computer. She needed a new job, and she needed it fast!

If he doesn't fire you first thing in the morning, she muttered, lips twisted in a pout as she cursed her own recklessness. She had risked everything for a reckless fling. Vasti's grandmother was sick and needed help, yet here she was, making foolish decisions!

Even if this job seemed promising, she could always find something else. Heidi wouldn't go on leave for another two weeks. If Vasti landed another position within a week, she wouldn't leave Heidi stranded and could get away from Adônis MacGyver for good.

While Vasti scrolled through job listings, Adônis MacGyver was making his way back to his apartment, fuming. He slapped the steering wheel in frustration. Things had been going perfectly, and now everything was shattered—completely gone.

He already knew what happened with virgins— unlucky enough to have gone through it twice, though calling it twice was generous. Both times, the women wanted commitment, a relationship, a wedding. The first time, he'd been naïve and nearly walked into a disaster, but caught himself at the last second. The second time, things seemed fine until she blindsided him. He'd vowed never to let that mess happen again. Absolutely not! Sure, Vasti was captivating; he couldn't recall ever meeting another woman who checked all his boxes so quickly. Too bad she had to be a virgin.

And of course, she had to be a virgin! He slammed a fist against the console. Perfect.

Adônis MacGyver had even set aside his own rule about employees. He never mixed work with pleasure— everyone knew that spelled disaster. At thirty-one, he should have learned his lesson, especially when women were involved—his favorite subject and his biggest weakness.

Now he drove home, stuck with frustration and zero relief.

Unbelievable! he yelled, frustrated. All he wanted was Vasti—her body, her defiance, and, if he was being honest, the chance to show her a thing or two.

A wicked grin crept onto his face. She definitely had a rebellious side, and he burned to find out if she kept that attitude between the sheets. He wanted to dominate her, right there, but the truth was, she didn't even know herself in bed—she had never had sex.

Still… just because she claimed to be a virgin didn't mean she'd never done anything at all. Adônis MacGyver sighed, shaking his head. Was he really that dense? The way she kissed, the way her hands had roamed—could that all be raw instinct? He doubted it.

I acted on impulse! he snapped. They could have at least done something— anything. Instead, he lost his mind and threw her out of the car. "It's not over yet!"

Meanwhile, Vasti still wore her robe, sprawled on the bed, scrolling through job postings on her phone. There were plenty out there, but none matched her field.

That's the least of my problems. The important thing is getting work, she muttered to herself. If she ended up selling merchandise in a shop, so be it—as long as she could cover her grandmother's expenses and keep herself afloat. Downsizing was an option, too. "If my father weren't such a jerk, maybe I could rely on him."

Vasti's father had bailed on her mother before she was even born, marrying into money and never looking back. He never pitched in—not with raising Vasti, not with money, not with anything. On the rare occasions he did show up, it felt like he was granting her a royal favor. The last time Vasti saw him, she had begged for help for her grandmother. He promised he'd pitch in, but as usual, Vasti hadn't seen a dime.

The intercom buzzed. She ignored it. It was late, and she hadn't ordered anything. Then again, what if something was actually wrong—like a fire? Muttering a curse, she trudged over to answer, but the ringing cut off just as she entered the kitchen. She waited a minute. Nothing happened. Annoyed, she headed back to the bedroom.

Then the doorbell rang.

You've got to be kidding me! She threw her hands up and marched to the door, checking the peephole—just in case. The sight on the other side nearly made her eyes pop out of her head.

I know you're in there, he called.

Uh… but—

Miss Cortez. Open the door. He barked the order, and that tone grated on Vasti's nerves.

Vasti yanked the door open, ready to let him have it. However, she didn't get the chance. The second the door swung wide, his mouth was on hers, his arms locked around her waist, and the only sound she heard was the door clicking shut behind them.

Adônis MacGyver hadn't planned to barge in and act this way. He'd only meant to confront her, look her in the eyes, and see for himself if she was telling the truth about her virginity—or if she'd ever done anything at all. He could have waited until morning, but curiosity and impatience got the better of him. When she opened the door in just a robe, her scent hit him like a punch, and within seconds, he had her pinned on the sofa.

S-sir… she managed between frantic kisses, her hand pressed against his chest. "Slow… ah…!"

He glanced at her, taking in her flushed face. The robe had come undone but hadn't fully slipped off, offering him a peek at one of her breasts— full and inviting.

Would you settle for this? Just sex? he asked. That question hadn't been in his plans when he left for her apartment, but his self-control had evaporated.

Vasti stared at him, tempted to tell him to get lost. How could he have the nerve to show up after everything he'd said and ask something like that?

No, she answered, lifting her chin, determined to set things straight. "You're my boss. I need this job. This isn't going to happen."

That was the last shred of reason she had left. Adônis MacGyver's face shifted, stunned. Was she seriously turning him down?

Adônis MacGyver felt humiliated. He stood, dragging his hand through his hair, then across his face. He couldn't believe it—he'd actually gone all the way back to that woman's place, sweet-talked her doorman, kissed her, and after all that, she had the nerve to turn him down.

Chasing after women had never been his style, but ever since meeting Vasti, he'd been on a losing streak.

And I practically threw myself at her! he remembered, stunned at his own behavior. Adônis MacGyver wasn't the kind of man who ever lost control like that!

Fine, he muttered, heading for the door. He didn't spare Vasti a glance before slamming it behind him.

What a maniac! Vasti shook her head, incredulous, but relieved she hadn't caved this time. She brushed her lips with her fingers. That kiss was dangerously addictive, but she had to stay clear-headed!

He was her boss, and if things went his way, she'd end up as nothing more than his plaything before he tossed her aside. No, Vasti refused to let that happen!

And now this will be all over the office, she thought. "I'll get branded as some shameless flirt, while he walks away the hero. Good luck finding another job after that, Vasti! At least not in this business!"

Vasti retreated to her bedroom, dead tired. The entire day had been a disaster, one emotional swing after another, and now she was more wound up than ever after facing off with her infuriatingly attractive boss.

And after everything he did to me! Honestly, Vasti, you're such an idiot!

She collapsed onto her bed and squeezed her eyes shut. Was it really too much to ask for a quiet night? Her phone buzzed somewhere nearby. She fumbled for it, but came up empty-handed.

Oh, where did you go? she mumbled, eyes flicking open. The phone sat right by her hand. "Just leave me alone…"

A message popped up from an unfamiliar number. She braced herself for another spam text, but this wasn't an ad.

UNKNOWN: Red.

Vasti's brow furrowed. Instantly, she remembered "lilac." No, that was impossible.

VASTI: Mr. Gonzalez?

She stared at the screen. The sender came online, saw her reply, and then disappeared without a word.

Hey! she barked at her phone, as if yelling would make a difference. "Come back!"

But the sender stayed offline.

VASTI: ??????

She fired off a message and waited. Nothing. This time, it didn't even look like it got delivered.

Ugh! Must've been a fluke, that's all, she muttered, trying to talk herself down. "Why would he text me and just block me right after?"

Still, knowing him, it wouldn't be out of character. She barely knew the guy, but he struck her as exactly the type to pull something like this. Vasti pressed her lips together, set her phone on the nightstand, and pulled the covers over her head!

The alarm clock eventually blared. Vasti stretched, and the scent of coffee hit her instantly.

Mmm! She sat down with a smile, but it didn't last long. The moment the scent hit her nose again, her expression faltered—it was too strong, too close. It was almost like it was coming straight from her own kitchen.

Her heart skipped. She shot out of bed and crept toward the door. Maybe it was just her neighbor? That had to be it. He might have left his own door open, and the smell drifted in… But then it hit her—she'd forgotten to lock her door after Adônis MacGyver stormed out!

Oh, hell! Vasti's pulse skyrocketed. Had someone broken in? "Calm down," she told herself, but what kind of burglar makes coffee?

Just in case, Vasti decided to investigate. She glanced around for anything she could use as a weapon—but the door swung open before she could grab a thing, forcing her backward.

Ah!

Adônis MacGyver strode in, acting like he owned the place. "You're up earlier than I thought," he said, sounding completely unfazed. He strolled over to Vasti's dresser, opened the top drawer, then shut it and moved to the next. The underwear drawer. Vasti stood frozen, staring at him in disbelief, unable to move. The sharp click of the final drawer snapping shut jolted her back to her senses.

Hold on! she shouted. "What do you think you're doing?" She jumped up, planting herself between him and her dresser. "You can't just go through my stuff!"

Vasti tried to shove him aside, but Adônis MacGyver hardly budged—he was simply too strong for her to move.

I figured you'd be the beige type, but come on… Adônis MacGyver rifled through her underwear, barely hiding his disappointment. "Seriously? Beige, black, and white? That's it?"

He held up a plain pair, but Vasti snatched it away before he could get a better look.

No lace? Not even a hint? He shot Vasti a look as if she'd committed a crime. "You really need to upgrade, my dear."

Vasti shut her eyes, exhaled slowly, and jabbed a finger at the door.

Alright, enough! Get out! Her voice trembled with irritation. "You can't just barge in like this! You're not even supposed to be here— this is completely out of line!"

Adônis MacGyver shrugged, totally unbothered. "Sure, I can. You let me in."

Vasti nearly burst out laughing at the sheer nerve and boldness of that man.

Oh, is that how you see it? Because I'm pretty sure I didn't.

Yes, you did, he insisted. "I called, you answered, you said yes— I even have the proof." Adônis MacGyver wore an expression of pure innocence, which looked absolutely ridiculous on him. Vasti's eyes narrowed, suspicion sharpening her gaze. "You can check your phone. I called you. I asked, you agreed, and I didn't have to break down a thing."

Vasti immediately grabbed her phone off the bed, glancing over at Adônis MacGyver, who hadn't moved an inch—hands in his pockets, watching her with that infuriating calm.

Sure enough, she found a call from him, logged about thirty minutes earlier.

I was asleep! she shot back. "I don't even remember saying anything!"

That's not my problem, is it? he replied, and went right back to digging through her drawers. This time, Adônis MacGyver went for the bras. Vasti jumped in his way, blocking him.

That's enough. Get out.

Adônis MacGyver arched an eyebrow. "You're awfully confrontational this morning."

She let out a short, exasperated laugh.

Me? I'm the confrontational one? she shot back. "You broke into my apartment!" When he drew breath to argue, she cut him off with a raised hand. "Don't even start. You took advantage of me being half-asleep to worm your way inside. Then you rifled through my stuff— my personal things! Without my consent! You—!"

Her words tangled in her throat. She couldn't go on.

He kissed her. It wasn't rough or hurried— he simply leaned in while she gazed at the dresser and pressed his lips softly to hers, catching Vasti completely off guard. She blinked, stunned, as she stared at him.

The coffee's getting cold, he said with a quick wink, then turned for the door. Before stepping out, he paused, hand on the knob, and glanced back. "Get changed and come eat something."

When the door shut, Vasti found herself frozen, staring at the wood as if it might give her answers. What on earth had just happened? The reason Vasti had woken up finally hit her, and she glanced at her phone. If she wanted to see her grandmother and still make it to work on time, she had fifteen minutes—tops!

She bolted for the shower, making sure the door was locked this time. That man roaming around on the other side? Not exactly trustworthy. Vasti threw on a dress and heels, brushed her teeth and hair at lightning speed, and darted out of the room.

Down the hall, Adônis MacGyver stood with a cup of coffee in hand. He had never brewed coffee for any woman—not once. Usually, his mornings started with a hangover and a quick exit. But now, he was here, still fully clothed, and he hadn't even slept with the apartment's owner.

She rejected me… he muttered, the words sour on his tongue. Still, after tossing and turning all night, Adônis MacGyver had dragged himself up, gone for a run, showered, and ended up at Vasti's place. By pure luck, her door had been unlocked, and when he called to ask if he could come in, she'd mumbled yes. Sure, he knew she was half-asleep, but he wasn't about to let that stop him. She had said "yes," and that was enough for him.

Adônis MacGyver had planned to make coffee for her, steal another kiss, maybe share a decent conversation, and—if luck was on his side—have a little fun before heading to the office. It was barely sunrise!

I must be out of my mind, he'd thought, pouring the coffee. Why did he want to play these games with her? His mind kept flashing warning signs—this one was different. He could see himself getting married if he wasn't careful. "No way. I'm not getting married," he'd grumbled to himself.

When Vasti walked out, fully dressed for the day, he let his eyes roam over her, unable to help himself.

And that's why we're here, he joked, flashing a grin as he handed her the coffee. He'd half expected her to come out in a nightgown—or at least something designed to tempt him. Maybe she was planning to seduce him. Maybe not.

No, no. We need to go— I'm running late! Vasti's tone carried a hint of impatience, prompting Adônis MacGyver to frown as he glanced down at his watch.

We've got plenty of time, he insisted. "We're not going to be late. Eat something..."

You won't—I will. I've got somewhere to be before work, so let's go!" she urged, her voice tight with impatience as she hovered by the door. Adônis MacGyver sighed and placed the cup in the sink, knowing there was no point in trying to change her mind.

I'll drive you, he offered, but Vasti shook her head.

No, that's not necessary. I just need you to come with me so I can lock up. Her patience was running out. Adônis MacGyver let it go. He would head down with her, and once they hit the lobby, he'd make sure she got to the car.

He sighed. "What a waste. A little cardio in the backseat would've been the perfect start to the day…"

He brushed past her and pressed the button for the elevator while she locked the door.

Better make sure it's locked tight. This building's not exactly safe, Adônis MacGyver said, earning a glare from Vasti sharp enough to cut glass. He just laughed. "What? Am I wrong? Anyone could waltz right in."

Vasti had plenty she wanted to say, but decided to keep her mouth shut. She didn't have time to argue. The elevator showed up fast, probably because the building was still quiet this early. They stepped in and stood in silence. Adônis MacGyver cast a quick glance at Vasti, but she was far too tense to even notice.

When they reached the lobby, Vasti spotted the doorman, Parsley, still on his shift.

We'll talk later, Mr. Russell, she called out.

The doorman gave Adônis MacGyver a look, but Adônis MacGyver only shook his head, clearly unimpressed. The man just stared, baffled.

What a shameless guy, the doorman muttered. "You blaming me for this?"

Adônis MacGyver ignored him. "Let's go, the car's right outside."

I already told you, I don't need a ride, Vasti said, veering off in the opposite direction. "Thanks, but no thanks!"

Adônis MacGyver frowned and reached for her arm. "Where exactly are you going that I can't drive you?" he demanded.

To the bus stop! Vasti shot back. "It'll be here any minute. I have to go or I'll miss it!" She tried to wriggle free. The bus stop was only a few steps away— she could practically see it. But Adônis MacGyver pulled her in and kissed her, warm and lingering. Vasti was too stunned to fight back. The second he let her go, she heard the rumble of the bus speeding past. She stared at him, mouth hanging open.

Hmm. Looks like you missed your bus… he said, faking a pout as he watched the bus disappear down the street.

I… I can't believe you did that on purpose! Vasti burst out, barely holding herself back from smacking him.

Need a ride now? he asked, with a smirk that made her want to strangle him. If she hadn't actually needed the lift, Vasti would have told him exactly where to shove that offer!

No, it wouldn't have. He's still my boss, and until I find another job, I can't let this happen! She thought to herself, seething.

Vasti rolled her eyes and strode past Adônis MacGyver, heading straight for his car.

Where to? he asked, turning the ignition.

The Royal Marsden, Vasti answered, barely glancing at him. Her sour mood just made him more smug—at least he'd managed to win one round.

It's a good hospital, Adônis MacGyver said, frowning. "Best in cancer care." Was Vasti sick? "Are you visiting someone?"

Uh-huh, she replied, eyes glued to the window.

Who?

Vasti finally looked at him, lips pressed tight.

I'm pretty sure that's none of your business, don't you think? she snapped. Adônis MacGyver bit back the urge to remind Vasti that she was sitting in his car, taking his ride. Then again, he kept quiet. After all, she was only in his car because he'd stopped her from catching the bus— intentionally. That hardly counted as doing her a favor.

Thinking back to last night, Adônis MacGyver felt his frustration rising. Even a freezing shower hadn't helped, and twice he'd had to calm himself down. He'd even shown up to make her breakfast, and she was still treating him like the enemy!

Not even a lousy thank you. Not one ounce of gratitude, Adônis MacGyver grumbled to himself. "You'll pay for that, Miss Cortez. One day, when I've got you right where I want you, you'll pay for every bit of that sass— starting with that mouth of yours!"

He couldn't help feeling disappointed, mostly because he didn't even understand why he cared so much. What was it about this woman? Sure, she was stunning, exactly his type—flawless, really. But beautiful women weren't exactly a rarity in his world. He'd seen plenty. He'd had plenty!

Maybe it was because she'd turned him down, he reasoned. Still, he wasn't convinced that one night with her would satisfy him. If anything, he suspected it'd just make him want more.

Texting her about her panties, he'd expected her to know it was him. After all, Heidi had given Vasti the documents with his number on them. He'd actually been surprised when Vasti didn't seem to have saved his contact at all. It was strangely impressive.

That, more than anything, made him think he might have a shot at getting closer. Vasti didn't want anything from him except the job—and maybe a few kisses, even if she pretended otherwise. She'd never flirted, just responded to his moves. Vasti wasn't playing games, and she definitely wasn't out to use him.

It had been a long time since Adônis MacGyver felt this sure of himself with a woman. Not since Greta, anyway. The second her name crept in, he shook his head, forcing the memory away. Thinking about Greta always left a bad taste in his mouth.

His gaze slid over to Vasti. Was she on her way to see a boyfriend? Maybe a nurse or doctor? A woman like Vasti—someone this gorgeous—couldn't possibly be single. Maybe that explained her attitude.

No, that couldn't be it. She'd been about to sleep with him, and she was a virgin? Who was the idiot dating a woman like her and not making a move?

Are you single? he asked.