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.

Adônis MacGyver had never once felt nervous asking that question. Usually, if a woman said she was taken, he'd shrug and move on. But this time, he found himself hoping Vasti wouldn't say yes.

Just picturing her—so stunning, so tempting—with someone else had him gripping the steering wheel a little too tightly.

Get it together, man! What the hell are you doing? You don't even know this woman, you fool! He scolded himself.

What do you think? Vasti shot back, shaking her head in disbelief. "Honestly, that's kind of insulting."

Asking if you have a boyfriend is insulting?

She fixed him with a look.

Of course! Do you really think if I had a boyfriend, I'd have—

Her voice caught. She stared straight ahead, lips quivering. He could see it on her face—she thought he saw her as just another fling, nothing special. If she'd had a boyfriend, there was no way she'd have let things go as far as they did. She would never have run off with him, never have thought about losing her virginity to a man who wasn't hers!

I just wanted to be sure. I don't get involved with women who are already taken, Adônis MacGyver explained, but Vasti didn't buy it. "I mean it. I know you'll probably say you're not like that, but I'd rather risk asking than assume and end up looking like a fool."

Vasti hesitated, knowing full well there were women out there who would keep a boyfriend secret just for a shot at a man like him.

For one thing, she said, drawing an imaginary line between them with her finger. "We're not dating. So there's no reason for you to know anything about my personal life."

Vasti, we need to talk, Adônis MacGyver said, his tone shifting. "Will that work for you? After work—today. It's... something important."

Vasti's teeth sank into her lip, and her throat felt tight.

Are you going to fire me? If that's the plan, let's just get it over with.

He pulled the car over and looked at her, gently lifting her chin.

If I wanted to fire you, I'd have done it already. Honestly, my life would be a lot simpler if you weren't my employee, Adônis MacGyver said, letting out a long sigh. "But this is something else. It's serious."

So this is your way of telling me that nothing's going to happen between us except sex, so I shouldn't get my hopes up? Vasti said flatly. "If that's the case, don't worry. There's not going to be any sex."

Adônis MacGyver sucked in a sharp breath and stopped her from getting out of the car. She shot him a cold look. He wanted to say, hell yes, he hoped there'd be a lot more—especially sex— but he managed to keep it to himself.

Fine, he said. "But that's not what this is about. After work?"

Vasti still had no clue what was so important, but she decided she'd hear him out. Maybe he'd get whatever it was off his chest, and she could finally have a peaceful day at work.

Alright, she agreed.

Any idea how long you'll be? He nodded toward the hospital.

Vasti had already cracked the door open.

Nope. Don't wait for me, she said, giving him a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "And… thanks for the ride!"

She stepped out of the car, and Adônis MacGyver had to fight the urge to follow her, grab her hand, and figure out exactly why she was here. So he stayed put. He'd wait—she didn't have much time left, and she'd end up late for work if she lingered. He planned to drive her afterward, and once they reached the office, they'd take separate elevators—no need to make her uncomfortable or give anyone in the company something to gossip about. Last night, he'd only cornered Vasti in the pantry because they'd been completely alone!

It wasn't that Adônis MacGyver was embarrassed to be seen with her—far from it—but at work, he had to keep things strictly professional. If Vasti agreed to what he had in mind, they'd need to stay under the radar. Extremely under the radar.

But that doesn't mean I won't enjoy this gorgeous woman in every corner of the office—even on company time. Adônis MacGyver smirked, already picturing Vasti on his desk, lost in his touch.

Meanwhile, inside the hospital, Vasti headed straight for her grandmother's room.

The old woman was halfway through breakfast when her granddaughter walked in. Her face lit up with a huge smile the moment she saw Vasti.

Oh, Vasti! she exclaimed, setting her glass on the tray. "I've missed you!"

Hi, Grandma! Good morning! Vasti greeted, flashing a bright smile. She also nodded to the nurse, who quietly slipped out to give them some privacy. The hospital staff all knew Vasti by now, and she'd arranged with the doctor to visit early, before work. The doctor had granted Vasti special permission for that visiting hour. The elderly woman had no family left, and Vasti couldn't come by in the mornings or afternoons because she had to work to cover the cost of the patient's treatment.

Good morning, dear! she greeted warmly, taking a spoonful of porridge before continuing. "How was work today? Are you liking it there? Is your boss treating you well?"

Vasti had to bite back the truth. If she even hinted that Adônis MacGyver had been impossible from day one, her grandmother might just storm out of the hospital and hunt him down herself.

Everything's fine, Grandma, she said, settling into the chair by the bed. "Everyone's been really nice. The woman I'm filling in for has been especially helpful."

Oh, that's wonderful to hear! her grandmother beamed.

The genuine joy in the old woman's smile made Vasti squirm inside. The truth was, her boss wasn't nice to her at all. His interest in her went far beyond anything professional.

I just wanted to check in on you, Vasti said softly. "I'll talk to the doctor, then head to work."

Vasti finished feeding her grandmother, pressed a kiss to her forehead, and set off to find the doctor.

Miss Cortez! the doctor, Lockwood, greeted her. He was young and handsome, a fact the nurses liked to mention every chance they got.

Dr. Scott! Vasti replied, managing a smile. "How's my grandmother doing?"

Well… about that. He hesitated. "The hospital asked me about the surgery payment. I said I'd check with you." He looked a bit uncomfortable having to bring it up.

Her brow creased.

Wait—it hasn't been paid? My f— She caught herself. "The person I asked to handle it promised they would."

Vasti cursed herself for trusting her father, Dimas, with something so important.

I'm not sure, Dr. Scott admitted. "As of this morning, we haven't received confirmation of payment." He offered an apologetic look. "I understand things are difficult right now. If… if you need help…"

He stood close, his expression softening as he gently took her hand. Vasti felt her cheeks burn and slipped her hand free, not wanting to give him any false hope. The man was attractive, smart, and unfailingly polite—but she didn't want to lead him on.

Thank you, but I'll handle this myself, she said. "If you'll excuse me, I really have to go."

He cleared his throat, clearly a bit embarrassed.

Of course, he said. "I'll wait for word from the finance office. But I mean it— don't worry so much. If you need help, just ask."

Thank you, Vasti said with a polite nod before leaving.

Dr. Scott hadn't come out and said anything, but it was obvious to Vasti that he was interested in her. She had to admit, it was flattering— he was gorgeous, after all. Still, she felt nothing for him. Not that way.

Like you feel about Adônis MacGyver, the sarcastic voice in her head chimed in. Vasti shoved that thought aside— useless, ridiculous nonsense!

Vasti slipped through the double doors and glanced at the empty spot where Adônis MacGyver's car had been parked. For reasons she didn't want to admit, she'd kind of hoped he would still be waiting for her. Shaking it off, Vasti headed for the bus stop, trying to focus on work and the phone call she'd need to make to Dimas. He had promised he'd take care of the surgery bill!

But it's fine, it's fine. Everything's going to work out. Today's going to be a good day!

What she didn't know was that Adônis MacGyver had actually waited for her.