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.

When Vasti stepped out of the elevator, she noticed the office felt even quieter than usual. Heidi spotted her right away and motioned for Vasti to come over.

What's going on? Vasti asked.

Heidi leaned in. "Mr. Gonzalez's in a foul mood. Nobody knows why, but he showed up this morning looking like he wanted to bite someone's head off."

Vasti frowned at that. Adônis MacGyver had seemed calm when he left her at the hospital. What could have happened between then and now to put him in such a bad mood?

Alright. I'll just focus on my own work. The last thing I need is for him to come after my job—again.

Heidi nodded and got back to her own tasks. By now, Vasti had learned the ropes. Heidi trusted she'd be able to manage the office and keep Mr. Gonzalez's schedule on track when the time came for Heidi to take her leave.

The morning slipped by without much drama. Adônis MacGyver called Heidi in a few times, and every single visit left her looking more rattled than before. The last time, Vasti shot her a questioning look, silently asking what was up. Heidi just shook her head and hurried back to her office, keeping whatever it was to herself.

It was well past one in the afternoon when Vasti finally left her desk and walked over to Heidi's office, knocking on the door to get her attention.

May I go grab some lunch? Vasti asked.

She skipped breakfast that morning, worried that if she missed the hospital shuttle, she'd show up late for work—a risk she couldn't afford. With her boss already in a terrible mood, losing her job felt like a real possibility. This time, he'd actually have a legitimate excuse to fire her, since the mistake would be her own. Sure, running a few minutes behind might not usually get someone canned, but with her luck, she wasn't about to test it.

Yes, of course. Go ahead, Heidi said with a kind smile.

What about you? Aren't you going to eat?

Not yet. Don't worry about me. I'll go after you get back.

Vasti nodded and headed out. Calling it hunger didn't do justice to how empty she felt— her stomach was practically eating itself!

She pressed the elevator button, ignoring the surprised gasps that had just erupted behind her. If it didn't concern her, she wasn't about to get involved. Right now, the only thing on her mind was food.

Just then, a shadow loomed behind her.

It must have been another employee waiting for the elevator, Vasti thought. Still, Vasti didn't know everyone in the building—she hadn't been there that long. "Come on, elevator, move it!"

The elevator doors slid open, and she walked in with her head lowered, fishing her phone out of her purse. Just as she reached out to hit the button for the ground floor, someone's hand cut her off. She glanced up to see who it was right as the elevator doors shut behind them.

We need to talk, Adônis MacGyver said, his voice grave. Vasti arched an eyebrow.

Alright… She could tell Adônis MacGyver was more intense than usual. He gave off a suffocating energy, and she couldn't decide if she should ask what set him off. "He'll tell you himself, Vasti. Otherwise, he wouldn't have called you here," she told herself. "Oh, sir, what did I do this time? But I had to eat first. Let me eat something before we talk, Mr. Gonzalez," she told Adônis MacGyver.

Lunch? Vasti caught a strange glint in his eyes and narrowed her own, watching him closely.

Yeah. It's late, and I haven't eaten a thing today, Vasti replied, forcing her voice to stay steady as she looked away.

I thought you'd already eaten—with your little friend, Adônis MacGyver said.

Vasti looked up at him, puzzled. "What… What little friend?"

The elevator doors slid open and, before she could react, Adônis MacGyver took her wrist—firm, but not rough—and steered her straight to his car. "Mr. Gonzalez!" She protested.

Get in, he said, leaving no room for argument. Vasti hated being bossed around, so she dug in her heels. Adônis MacGyver let out an exasperated sigh, tossed her an impatient smile, and added, "Please."

Vasti shot him a look that practically said, "This better be worth it." Without another word, she nodded and slid into the car.

Would you care to explain what that was all about? Why did you drag me out here?

Adônis MacGyver gripped the wheel with both hands, closed his eyes, and drew in a slow breath before facing her.

Who was the man with you at the hospital?

Vasti needed a second to process. What man…? And then it finally clicked.

He's the doctor treating the person I went to visit, Vasti said.

Are you going out with him? Vasti frowned, puzzled by the question—especially since Adônis MacGyver sounded more intense than usual.

She blinked, thrown off by his tone. Was he really… jealous?

No, that's not... she muttered, then cleared her throat. She straightened up and looked him in the eye. "With all due respect, Mr. Gonzalez, I don't owe you any explanations."

Vasti! Just tell me—are you two together or not?

She wanted to tell him to mind his own business, but honestly, what was the point of dragging this out? If he wanted an answer, she'd give him one and maybe, just maybe, he'd finally leave her alone long enough to eat.

No, Mr. Gonzalez, I'm not seeing that man. Not the way you're thinking.

Relief washed over Adônis MacGyver, softening his whole demeanor. He reached out and gently brushed Vasti's cheek with his hand.

I didn't like seeing you that close to him, he admitted quietly. "He... He held your hand…"

He reached for her hand, as if to point something out, then brought it to his lips and pressed a kiss to the back of it.

Vasti sat there, utterly bewildered. Adônis MacGyver switched moods like flipping a light— one moment, he only seemed interested in sex, the next he acted like he cared, then he'd get mad out of nowhere, only to suddenly turn gentle again.

Honestly, he acted like a jealous boyfriend—which made no sense, since they didn't have that kind of relationship. If she had to label it, maybe there was some flirting, but that was the extent of it.

He's just a friend. And like I said, I don't owe you any explanations, she replied, her voice softer than she intended— almost a whisper.

Adônis MacGyver leaned in, pressed a light kiss to her lips, and rested his forehead against hers. "We need to talk after work," he said quietly.

Vasti licked her lips and nodded, already regretting her curiosity. She always managed to land herself in trouble. What could this man possibly want, other than sex?

Fine, she said, keeping her answer short. "That conversation was wildly inappropriate, but… Let's just get some food. Please."

Adônis MacGyver chuckled, sat back, and buckled his seatbelt. One hand gripped the steering wheel, the other shifted the car into gear.

So, what do you want to eat today?

I don't care… Honestly, I just need food.

I just need to eat too, he said, smirking. Vasti stared at him, half-annoyed that he'd even tried that joke.

He lifted his hands in mock surrender, still laughing. Just like that, the tension vanished. Suddenly, he was the same Adônis MacGyver she'd seen that morning—easygoing, relaxed, even friendly.

He started the car and drove out of the garage. Adônis MacGyver had already decided: he was going to take her somewhere for one of his favorite meals, something he rarely allowed himself to have.