Chapter 3

Ifeel like my entire body is vibrating like a tuning fork when Mario the host escorts me through the restaurant. Hes nice enough, but I feel a little bad. Dominic has sent him all over the place because of me, and Im hoping this isnt a huge inconvenience.

I know this must be weird for you, I find myself rambling. Some random woman coming in the restaurant and now youre tasked with handing me over to a security guy so I can go to your boss house. Youre probably thinking, Man, I had plans for tonight! I just wanted to apologize. I really appreciate all that Dominic is doing. I swear, I wont be underfoot for long.

Mario shakes his head, his face softening. He looks younger when he smiles, not nearly so intimidating. Miss Linden, its really fine. Boss is always generous and fair. If he asks me to do something, Ill do it. No questions asked. And youre not the strangest guest Ive ever escorted.

My curiosity is piqued. Oh? Really?

He nods, Mr. Falcone lives an interesting life, which Im sure youre about to find out all on your own soon enough.

The host leaves me sitting in the empty dining room to wait for my driver, where I try my best to avoid the curious stares of the two servers who are closing the restaurant down. It gives me a moment to look over the place, and its jarring to realize that Ive never eaten somewhere this fancy in my entire life.

I havent had the chance, really. For the most part, Ive been living paycheck to paycheck while building my meager savings. This restaurant is worlds above the fast-food and bar-and-grill places that are my go-to, and my mouth waters a little as I read the descriptions on the menu.

Its also kind of funny because while the place is beautiful, its not exactly the sleek, modern aesthetic I would have pictured for Dominic. It looks like its been passed down from his fathers generation, maybe even his grandfathers. Its stunning in a timeless way, but Dominic, with his perfectly trimmed salt-and-pepper hair and dark deep-set eyes, is modern and stylish. He seems like a man who would pick a restaurant thats more cutting-edge than this.

It all makes a little more sense when I rise from my seat just enough to see into the open-concept kitchen. Ah. There is all the cutting-edge technology I expected. The appliances are stainless steel, shiny and new, the sinks are big enough to fit a few people, and the backsplash is a pristine white with gray veining.

I can imagine Dominic in the kitchen, sleeves rolled up and tie loose around his neck, preparing the nights special to show his chefs exactly what he wants. Or maybe his strong, broad shoulders would fill out a chefs coat himself. Each mini fantasy makes me feel hot all over.

Im also still coming down from the adrenaline rush of speaking to Dominic and asking for his help. Its a miracle I managed to get any words out considering how much his appearance shook me up, but I got my story out and secured his protection from his son. Even if it comes with the strange, borderline inappropriate condition of staying at his house.

The front doors swing open, and Mario walks back in along with a tall, slender man who looks like hes in his late twenties. His light brown hair is neatly combed, and his green eyes are friendly.

Ashton. Mario gestures to him, and the man dips his head politely. Hes your ride.

Thank you again for everything, I tell him, giving the host a smile. Ill see you soon Im sure.

You too, miss. Mario gives me a two-fingered salute. Have a good night.

You too!

Ashton leads me out to the parking lot, and I immediately spot the car Dominic told me about. Its a dark sedan, the windows tinted, the exterior clean and polished. Daisy, right? he asks.

Yep. I shake his hand, and he opens the passenger-side door for me. And youre Ashton.

I work for Mr. Falcone, he says, gesturing for me to slide in. Call me Ash, please. Everyone does.

Okay. I offer him a smile that I hope is confident, but to be honest, Im exhausted, both emotionally and physically. I cant imagine how I must look right now. Probably like a mess.

Ashton shuts the door and walks around the car to the drivers seat, climbing in behind the wheel. Dominic explained the situation to me, he tells me as he starts the engine. So Im going to be the one looking after you until he gets home. Is that alright?

Thats perfect. I buckle my seatbelt and try not to let it show how nervous I am. But tell your boss that this isnt necessary. Im sure I can hide out at my apartment and you guys can just watch outside from the car or something...

Ashton laughs, a low chuckle as he pulls out of the parking lot. Miss Linden, Dominic Falcone doesnt have guests. He doesnt have company. The fact that hes offering to shelter you at his personal residence is a testament to how much he cares. Please respect that.

I know, I do, I admit. Its just that Im not used to charity. I mean, this is a huge thing hes doing for me.

And trust me, hes not doing it lightly. Dont think of it as charity. Think of it as Dominic Falcone extending an olive branch because of what his son has done. That and hes always been very protective of women, so you were already in his good graces before you even walked in the door.

Its a lovely thought, one that makes my heart flutter. Ashton almost makes it sound like destiny, even if thats not what hes trying to convey. I chew at my lip and lean back in the luxurious leather seat, looking up at the roof of the car. Ashton, can I ask you a question?

Sure. Anything.

Is...is Dominic an unusual guy? I feel silly asking, but Ashton doesnt laugh. I mean, is he prone to taking in strangers and helping them out like this?

Well, normally, no. Ashtons hands tighten on the steering wheel. Normally, Dominic keeps people at a distance. Not a lot of people know him very well, personally. And while hes endlessly powerful in the circles his family has always run in, hes actually not as ruthless as you might think.

Huh, I say, flipping on the heated seat and closing my eyes to try and rest during the hour-long drive. Thats funny. I guess I never really thought of him as ruthless at all.

* * *

I dont fallinto a full sleep, but its still hard to return to the waking world when I feel Ashton slowly hit the brakes and declare. Were here.

With a yawn, I sit up in the seat, and when I get a good look at the house, even in the dark, Im flabbergasted. Dominic called it a house, but its more like a mansion, with sprawling grounds and manicured gardens. It looks like its been here forever, classic and formidable, with vines climbing up the stone exterior on one side. My tiredness is gone in an instant. Holy crap, I whisper under my breath, making Ashton chuckle.

Yeah, thats the usual reaction to the place.

Im so busy staring that I nearly trip getting out of the vehicle, and then Ashton is leading me into the massive entryway, flicking on the light switch. The chandelier overhead flickers on, and I blink.

Wow, is all I manage to say. Dominic mentioned having updated his family home, and I can immediately see the similarities between his house and his office back at Il Fiore Raro. The floors are a gorgeous dark hardwood, and the walls are painted a warm cream. A grand staircase greets us, and Ashton gestures towards it.

Ill show you to your room, he says. Follow me.

I do, feeling dwarfed by the huge house. Im sure Dominic has a staff that comes and goes, but tonight the place is empty, and Ashton and I are the only ones inside.

What do you do for Dominic? I ask, just for something to talk about to take my mind off how intimidated I feel.

Im his head of security, Ashton replies. I work pretty closely with him. Weve known each other a long time.

Huh. I cant imagine what working for Dominic Falcone would even be like. Hes so.... I trail off, not sure what word to use.

Powerful? Intimidating? Scary? Ashton supplies, grinning.

The first two, yeah, but scary? Not to me, somehow, I confess.

Hm. Well. That makes you one in a million, I think.

Ashton shows me into one of the many rooms, and Im blown away again. Its furnished beautifully, the bed huge and draped in a fluffy duvet and pillows. The colors here are softer, more feminine, and the attached bathroom is breathtaking, built with heated marble floors and antique brass fixtures on the enormous jacuzzi tub. Wow.

Hope its up to your liking, Miss Linden.

Daisy, please. And its incredible. I turn in a small circle, trying not to squeal and flail like a little kid. Ive never been anywhere this nice. Never even seen anything this nice except in magazines.

Well, then Im glad youre here. And Im sure Dominic will be, too. Just yell out the door if you need anything, I wont be far. He must see the nerves that are setting into me again because before he shuts the door, he adds, Daisy, youre safe here. In fact, I dont think there is a single safer space on this planet than under Dominic Falcones protection.

I nod, even though a part of me still feels a little guilty. Carlo is Dominics son. His family. And hes the one putting me, this random woman, up in his house, even if Carlo did start it.

Ashton closes the door, leaving me alone, and I give into the excitement and flop onto the bed, laughing out loud at the luxurious way my body sinks down. Wow, I mutter again, unable to keep the grin off my face. I could only dream about staying somewhere this nice.

For the next hour, I spend my time flipping through channels on the huge television, flipping through the random selection of books on the built-in bookcase, and wiggling my toes on the heated bathroom floor. Im basically just trying to burn off anxious energy, knowing that soon enough, Ill be face-to-face with Dominic again.

That opportunity finally arrives with a small knock on the door.

Come in! I call, heart starting to race, but it isnt Dominic who enters. Instead, its a small middle-aged woman, with her dark red hair pulled up into a tight bun. Behind her is Ashton, who helps her bring my things from my apartment before he departs, leaving me with the new woman.

Hello, dear, she tells me, her voice warm. Im Elena, the household manager. Mr. Falcone wanted us to bring your things up and to tell you that hed like you to join him for a late dinner in the breakfast nook if youre feeling up to it.

Oh, yeah, definitely, I reply, wanting nothing more than to see Dominic again.

Elena takes a step closer, smiling. Mr. Falcone has never had anyone stay here since Ive been employed, she murmurs, looking me over. Meaning he doesnt do things like this lightly, so I hope youre aware of the gravity of the situation, Miss Linden.

Yes, Ashton made that clear, and please call me Daisy.

Okay. Elena claps her hands together. Daisy, Im going to show you to the breakfast nook.

I follow Elena downstairs, and when we reach the kitchen, she gestures for me to go in alone, heading back the way we came. My stomach churns with butterflies, and I walk towards the nook, which is a little room with a table, built-in bench seating, and a large window that overlooks the backyard, which is illuminated close to the house but dark in the distance.

And then there’s Dominic. Its almost midnight, and hes stripped down to a white button-down, his sleeves rolled up over his impressive forearms. His tie is gone, the top buttons undone, revealing a tantalizing view of his strong neck and collarbones.

Daisy, he greets, and his deep voice is a purr. Please sit.

I do, unable to keep myself from staring. Dominic Falcone is an intoxicating man, and being alone with him in his own home is making me lose my mind. The things I want to do to him, and the things I want him to do to me...what is wrong with me?

The meal reflects the late hour—two roasted turkey sandwiches with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and toasted bread and what looks like a handful of chips. My heart stutters in my chest. Did he make this himself? The idea of it is so touching, so opposite of what I would expect from this hulking, deadly man, that I have to blink away tears before he can see.

Did you do this? I ask, unable to live another second without knowing. Its such a small thing, but Im stuck on it. I cant remember the last time someone prepared a meal for me.

I did. Dominics mouth quirks up, just slightly, a hint of a smile. Is it okay?

Its more than okay, I tell him, picking up the sandwich and taking a bite. Its delicious, and I cant help the moan that slips out at the taste.

Dominics eyes gleam, and Im not sure why. Im glad you like it. You must be hungry after such a long day.

Starving, actually. I swallow. But mostly exhausted, too.

I can only imagine. Dominic leans forward, his forearms on the table. I hate to turn the subject back to more difficult things, but I wasnt able to get into contact with Carlo on my own. He must be screening my calls. So I have my...employees looking for him, and Ive posted extra security around the house. Dont worry, my people work quickly.

I nod, taking a sip of the glass of ice water Dominic poured for me. Okay. That makes me feel better.

Its the least I can do, considering Carlo is my blood. He looks troubled but shakes it off before he continues. And Id be lying if I said it wasnt also a selfish move on my part. I can already tell Im going to like having you here, Daisy. Dominic sits back, and theres that ghost of a smile again. Im a solitary man, but this house is too big and too empty sometimes.

The sandwich is simple enough, but Im way hungrier than I thought I was and make quick work of it. Dominic takes small bites of his own, but hes more intent on watching me, a pleased look on his face as he does so.

Do I have something on my face? I joke, but Dominic just shakes his head.

I like providing for you, Daisy, he tells me, his deep voice rolling over me and I just know my cheeks are going red again. And I like seeing you enjoy what I provide.

My mouth drops open, but no sound comes out, and Dominic chuckles. Am I embarrassing you?

No, I answer honestly. Youre confusing me a little. Im not used to...

Attention?

Anyone paying this close attention to me. Ever. I take a gulp of water.

Dominic stands, takes my plate, and places it in the dishwasher, and I immediately miss his company across from me.

All the staff here are very discreet. Theyre used to keeping secrets, so you dont have to worry about anything getting out. Not from my people, Dominic tells me. But is there anyone who is going to be looking for you that you WANT to know that youre safe? Friends? Roommates? Family?

I wilt a little in my seat, shoulders slumping. Ah...no. I used to live in one of the suburbs outside of the city with my mom, just the two of us. She was a nurse around here, but shed been dying to move to the coast since I was a kid. I wanted to move to the city anyway and save up some money to go to school, and Mom gave me a little money to make the move. She took a nursing job in Florida and moved not long after I did.

Dominic leans back against the counter, his broad chest and thick arms looking even more enticing with his dress shirt unbuttoned a bit at the collar. Do you get along with your mother?

Oh, yeah. I nod. I just dont get to see her very much. We talk every so often. Shes happy in Florida.

And your father?

I can feel myself sinking in my seat. This is not my favorite subject. He...well. He gave my mom a fake name, and when he found out she was pregnant with me, he disappeared. She thinks he had another family and just went underground so he didnt get caught cheating on his wife. I shrug one shoulder, running my finger over the ring of my water glass.

Dominic is silent, but when I look up his jaw is clenched, his hands gripping the edge of the countertop behind him. How dare he, he growls.

My mouth falls open, but Dominic seems determined not to elaborate on his outburst, instead letting go and turning away to wash our dishes. You should get some rest, he tells me, drying his hands on a towel. Tomorrow, Ill be out all day, but Ashton will be around and Elena will be here as well.

Wait! I want to go with you…tomorrow! I quickly add when I figure out he might think I mean I want to join him tonight. To the restaurant. I said Id work for you for free.

Dominics expression darkens. Its not safe. Carlo could be out there.”

Oh. I deflate a bit, but Dominic isnt finished.

The safest thing we can do is keep you in this house until the Carlo issue is handled. If you arent seen outside at all, it might make him give up that much sooner.

Bristling, I think about arguing. Theres no way Im staying inside for a long period of time. Ill die of boredom. But there is a stern look to Dominic that makes me want to listen to him on some instinctive level, and its so late. Maybe hell be more pliable after a full night of sleep.

Okay, I agree, standing. I guess I should go to bed, then.

Ill escort you.

We walk upstairs together, and the air between us is charged, heavy with the things we arent saying. When we reach my door, Dominic pauses, looking down at me. Get some rest, He murmurs, and its not a request. For a long, stretching moment, I think hes going to touch me, and Im almost positive I want him to, as crazy as that is. Instead, Dominic just opens my bedroom door and watches me cross the threshold, his expression unreadable.

Goodnight, Daisy. The door behind me shuts with a click.

* * *

I wakeup with pure yellow sunlight streaming through the cream-colored curtains, the warmth of it falling over my face and teasing me to wakefulness.

I stretch, enjoying the pull of it before I even open my eyes. For some reason, this morning, my bed feels especially cushy and luxurious, which is weird. Because my bed is never comfy.

I crack my eyes open, and the first thing I register is that the ceiling is much too high for my apartment. A zing of concern zips through me, and I sit up, looking around, still not fully awake. The strange surroundings make my heart start to race. Where the heck am I?

But then it all comes rushing back. Carlo. The restaurant. Dominic Falcone stepping up like a knight in shining armor, his massive height and broad frame making his son pale in comparison. The car ride and then Dominics house, the feel of his gaze on me, and his quiet, deep voice.

Dominic.

Oh, gosh. What have I gotten myself into? I breathe out, flopping back into the pillows and pulling the blankets over my head, hiding from the light.

What am I even doing here? Carlo might not be the most pleasant man, but his dad is...a god. An intimidating, powerful, hot-as-hell god. And Im just Daisy.

Theres no way Dominic feels any sort of way about me. Even if he is attentive and flirtatious, hes probably like that with all women. A soft knock comes on the door, and Elenas muffled voice says, Daisy, good morning. Mr. Falcone would like you to join him for breakfast in twenty minutes.

Okay! I call out, my voice rough with sleep. Thanks, Elena.

When Elenas footsteps recede, I scramble out of bed, rushing for the shower and rinsing off before blow-drying my hair, then digging through my luggage and dressing in jeans and a flowy white shirt. Something thats comfortable and casual but still cute.

I cant explain the urge I have to look nice for Dominic. Maybe because, on some level, I want to prove that I can be attractive, that its worth his time. Or maybe I just want him to notice me.

I apply some mascara, adding a swipe of peachy lip gloss that gives my whole appearance a healthy, glowing vibe, and leave my hair loose and natural, the warm brown waves falling past my shoulders.

Taking a deep breath, I exit the room and walk downstairs, following the scent of coffee and the sound of people talking. Hes in the same breakfast nook as last night, but I have a feeling there is a much grander dining room somewhere in this mansion. For now, though, Im more than happy to be close to him while we eat.

Dominic is talking to Ashton, who takes his leave when I enter the room, leaving just Dominic and me alone with a spread of food. Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, bagels, and a fresh pot of coffee.

Good morning, Daisy, he tells me, standing as I take my seat and pushing a cup of coffee towards me. His eyes are warm, his lips quirked up in a half-smile. Did you sleep alright? Was the room satisfactory?

Its amazing. Thank you.

Of course. His smile turns sly. I pride myself on being a fantastic host.

Mmm. I take a sip of the steaming, perfectly made coffee, and Dominic chuckles softly.

I have to go into the restaurant today, and Ashton will accompany me, but well have security posted outside of course. Ive asked Elena to stay here with you. You can do whatever you like. The house is yours. Feel free to order groceries online for yourself or to explore.

Maybe I will. I smile at him over the rim of my mug. Its a big house, and Im a curious girl. But... I pause, wondering if I should interrupt this lovely meal by pushing his buttons. But I really want to go with him. Cant I come with you? Id really prefer to earn my keep.

Its supposed to be a joke, but my last words make his expression darken. Youre here because I want you here, Daisy. Youre under my protection. This isnt some room and board that you have to earn.

I know that. I push. But it will kill me to just sit around while you work. Im not a woman who enjoys sitting on the couch.

His jaw clenches. Daisy?—

Come on. My own temper flares to life, and for a second, I forget that the man sitting across from me is probably one of the most dangerous men in the entire country.

Dominics hand closes over mine, and the shock of his touch makes my body go hot and cold all at once.

Pushy, are we? Youre going to do as I say, little one, he growls, his eyes burning into mine.

Why? I snap, too stubborn and headstrong to let it go. Because its not safe?

Dominics eyes gleam. He hasnt let go of my hand, and I can feel him tracing slow circles over the back of it, a surprisingly gentle gesture for such a big, stern man.

Because I said so, Daisy.

I scoff, and Dominic chuckles, taking his hand away, and a tiny thrill goes through me at the loss.

Eat, Daisy. Please.

I grumble but do as he says, helping myself to some breakfast. Elena brings a fresh pot of coffee out, but then leaves Dominic and me alone, just like Ashton did.

I wanted to talk to you about my son. If Im going to protect you, I need to know how serious things were between you two. Hes much harder to get in contact with than I anticipated.

Not serious at all, I tell him quickly, for some reason wanting Dominic to know that things were never intense with his son. Carlo pursued me, not the other way around. We went out a few times, but it was always just fun. Never...romantic, really. But he was possessive anyway.

Dominic frowns, a small line appearing between his brows. Possessive?

Yeah, um...he never got mad, but he would always tell me he didnt like it when I went out with friends or if I worked late shifts. He didnt like for me to work at all actually, but he couldnt really do anything about it. I squirm in my seat, hating to be the center of such an intense and serious conversation. Especially with this man. It feels wrong. He would just give me this look when I would tell him I was busy or something.

Hm. Dominic mulls this over, and he looks like he wants to say something but is having trouble figuring out the exact words. Finally, he sighs heavily and sets his coffee cup down. Weve been dancing around this, but youre a smart girl, Daisy. Im sure youve picked up that the history of my family, and in turn, Carlos family, isnt all above board. Weve done...Ive done some terrible things, but that was just part of the job.

I think I know where hes going, but I dont want to assume. The job?

Were mafia, Daisy.

My mind is reeling. Mafia. This insanely rich, sexy older man is part of the mob.

Ive been trying for over a decade now to separate the Falcone name from everything. Im tired of it all. But Carlo was the opposite. He wanted all the blood and glory and the money that came along with it. Now hes missing and I have to clean up his mess yet again. Dominic leans back, his plate cleared, and he takes a long sip of coffee. I wont put you in the position to be used as leverage against us, Daisy. Thats why you have to stay here. Understood?

But wouldnt I be safer with you? Im scrambling at this point. I mean Im sure your security is great, but I mean...look at you! I wave my hands to indicate his hulking body, the width of his shoulders, and the way his suit fits perfectly, tailored to him. Youre...intimidating. And... my voice goes quiet. I feel safe when Im with you.

Its the right thing to say, apparently. The flattery followed by the confession about how safe he makes me feel has Dominic closing his eyes and blowing out a long breath. Its hard to deny you anything, little one, you know that?

I sit up a little straighter, hopeful. It is? Does that mean...?

Youll come to the restaurant with me. But you are absolutely forbidden to be in the dining room or the open kitchen. You can be in the back with the pastry chef or up in my office. No exceptions.

Yay! I cant help but squeal, and Dominic laughs.

Youre very cute, Daisy. Ill give you that.

My cheeks heat, and I grin, standing up and reaching for his empty plate. At least let me wash these dishes since youve been so generous.

I pay Elena a very, very handsome salary for that, Daisy. Shell do them.

Oh. Okay.

Now… He stands, suddenly looming over me, and my breath catches. “Since you’re so insistent, I hope you’re ready for a full day.”

How has he gotten even hotter?

Well leave in twenty minutes. Is there anything you need before we go?

Um...no. Just, uh... I stumble over my words, distracted by his broad chest. Just my purse, I guess. And maybe a jacket.”

There are plenty of coats in the front closet.

He gestures towards the front entrance, and when I walk ahead of him, I feel his hand land on the back of my neck, warm and heavy, not grabbing or forcing, just resting there in an oddly comforting and possessive gesture. Go on, he murmurs, following behind me. Get your things and Ill meet you in the foyer.

I cant tell if this is the beginning of something...or if Dominic Falcone—a hot older, experienced, and dangerous mafia man—is just a naturally touchy person.

The former is what my heart wants, but the latter would be safer. But I cant help but hope as I feel Dominics eyes burning into me while I bound up the stairs, feeling lighter and more free than I have in months.