Chapter 4

Have you ever filled a cannoli before?

I pause in tying the apron behind me, looking at the older woman with a self-conscious grin. Ah...no. I dont think Ive ever eaten one, either.

Marie, the pastry and dessert chef Dominic assigned me to work with, is an older Italian woman who is at least 2 inches shorter than me and a million times more intimidating. She puts her hands on her hips, glaring as she looks me up and down, before she sighs in defeat.

Guess theres nothing to do about it. Mr. Falcone wants me to teach you, so Ill teach you. Come over here.

The drive to Il Fiore Raro was so fraught with tension between Dominic and me that I thought I was going to jump out of my skin. The sports car we took was only a two-seater, and Dominic is so huge that I felt like I was almost in his lap.

He drove like a maniac, speeding down the streets with one hand on the wheel and the other resting on my leg, like he had to constantly touch me even if it was only a few inches away from my body. I could feel his warmth through his hand, and it was all I could focus on.

And then, of course, there were the looks.

Dominic took his eyes off the road several times to glance over at me, a heavy, heated look I couldn’t read, and it made my stomach squirm and twist, making me bite my lip.

It was a relief when we finally pulled up to the restaurant, even if being around him was still nerve-wracking.

Pay attention. Maries stern voice snaps me out of my thoughts and brings me back to the present moment. Filling the cannoli isnt difficult, but if you mess it up, thats less for us to work with.

Right.

Ill show you how to do it, and then you try. Well start with the regular cream, and if Mr. Falcone approves, well add chocolate next.

I watch closely as Maria shows me exactly how to fill the cannolis, and then gives me a piping bag full of cream, watching like a hawk as I begin to fill each one. My hands are shaking a bit, but after a few minutes, they still, and my movements become quick and efficient.

Hm. Marie looks surprised. Youre not as hopeless as I expected.

I giggle a little, pausing before starting the next. Not the compliment I usually receive, but thanks.

She chuckles, her stern demeanor thawing slightly. No, not bad at all. If Mr. Falcone likes these, well make a pastry chef out of you.

I beam proudly. Really?

Ill speak highly of you. Now hurry up, we have dozens more to fill.

Yes, maam.

I finish the tray, and Marie adds them to the large commercial refrigerator, bringing out another one. Lets see how you do with the chocolate.

After a few attempts, Dominic comes into the kitchen, and Marie and I both snap to attention.

Sir, she greets him. Im showing Daisy how to fill cannolis. Shes a quick learner, and the cream turned out well.

Dominics lips twitch in a ghost of a smile, and his dark eyes glitter as he looks me up and down, taking in my hair thats now tied up into a ponytail, my flour-dusted apron, and my pink cheeks.

She isnt causing you any trouble, Marie? I get the feeling little Daisy can be quite a handful.

My cheeks heat. Dominic has been flirty with me since the moment we met, but theres something different about his tone now—something lower and more intimate. Marie doesnt pick up on it, or maybe she ignores it, but it makes me want to throw myself into his arms.

No, sir, Marie answers, and Dominic hums, crossing his arms.

Id like to try one.

Of course, sir. Give me a moment and Ill box some up for you and have Ashton bring them into your office.

Dominic shakes his head. No, Marie. Daisy can do it.

Oh, me?

He smiles fully, his white teeth flashing and his dimples popping. You, Daisy. Box two up for me and bring them into my office. You remember where it is?

I swallow, my mouth suddenly dry. Um...yes. I remember.

Good. Be a good girl and hurry.

As soon as he turns and leaves the kitchen, Marie elbows me and chuckles. Best do as he says, she tells me, giving me a knowing smile. Ive been working for that man for years, and he doesnt ask twice.

Right. Yeah. Um...the boxes?

She points across the room, and I scramble to put the cannolis neatly into a pretty gold box, placing the lid on and walking through the kitchen, trying not to run into anyone.

I knock on the doorframe of his office, and he looks up, a gleam in his eyes.

Come in. Leave the box on the desk.

I do as he asks, setting the box down and backing towards the door. Dominic just watches me, his eyes locked on mine, and he gestures to a chair.

Sit down, Daisy.

My knees are so weak that I collapse in the chair gratefully. I have no idea why I feel like this, so weak and needy and desperate just from a few glances. Dominic doesnt look any different than normal, but something has changed. Theres a hunger in his gaze that makes my stomach clench.

Here. Try one. He lifts one of the cannolis out of the box and extends it towards me. But before I can take it, he swipes the cream out of the center and presses it to my lips, his eyes darkening as he rubs it over my lower lip.

I part my lips, and Dominic slides his finger in, smearing the cream over my tongue.

Suck, he commands, and I obey, swirling my tongue around his thick digit and sucking. He tastes like cream, sweet and rich, and his fingers are calloused and rough. I’m suddenly so turned on that it’s the only thing I can think about, wetness flooding between my thighs as I shift and rub them together to try and get even an ounce of relief.

Its not lost on either of us that Im sucking his finger in his office, and his face is strained when I open my eyes and meet his gaze.

Good girl, he murmurs, sitting on the desk across from me and dipping his finger into the second pastry. Now, the chocolate.

This time, though, he doesnt move to touch his finger to my lip. Instead, he motions me closer, and I have to stand to close the gap. Just as I think hes going to give me a taste, he swipes the filling on his own lower lip.

Taste it.

My heart pounds, and I step between his legs, trembling when his hands slide over my hips and rest on my ass.

Come on, little Daisy. You dont want to be a disobedient girl, do you?

I whimper, and he grins, pulling me even tighter against him. Fuck, look at you. Youre shaking.

Im nervous.

Dont be. His voice is low and commanding. Open up.

I part my lips, and Dominic pulls me closer, his thumbs sliding under the waistband of my jeans.

Lick the cream off, and then kiss me.

What—

He cuts off my words, squeezing my ass roughly and forcing my body up and forward, and our mouths collide. Its a messy kiss, tongues and teeth and cream and chocolate, and when Dominic growls and grabs the back of my head, kissing me deeper, I melt against him.

My body has a mind of its own, and before I know whats happening, Im on his lap and my legs are wrapping around his hips. It’s all happening so fast! I grip desperately at his lapels, and Im grinding against him desperately. I can feel how hard he is through his pants, and his cock is so big that my pussy throbs when I think of him sliding it between my legs.

When I pull away, gasping for air, Dominic stares at me like hes starving and Im a feast.

Did you like that, little Daisy? Did you like tasting the chocolate from my mouth?

I… Im panting, and its hard to form words. Holy crap. I just kissed Dominic Falcone, Carlo’s father, a single day after meeting him! And I want to do it again. Like, right now. Yes.

Gently, he sets me back on my feet, and I plop back into my chair, boneless and stunned. Dominic is immediately on his feet, pacing the office, laughing ruefully. Youre making me unravel, Daisy. I think its best that you go back downstairs to work before I do something well both regret.

Oh. My thoughts are frazzled. You dont want to kiss me again?

I very much do. But lets get through the night first. And then we can have dinner together. How does that sound?

Im already aching and desperate for him, but Dominic has a point. The restaurant is full, and Marie is expecting me, and if I stay up here, Im sure Ill lose my mind.

Okay. I stand, my legs still shaky. So Ill definitely see you later?

After the restaurant closes. Yes.

You promise?

Dominic chuckles. Such a needy little thing, arent you? Yes, Daisy. I promise.

I walk back to the kitchen, a giddy feeling in my stomach, and Marie laughs as soon as she sees me. I dont need to ask how it went.

I blush, and she shakes her head, a smile twitching on her lips. The man has never shown any interest in anything other than business. Youre the first person to ever fluster him.

Really?

She nods. Hes always been very quiet. Keeps to himself, mostly. Hell disappear for hours or days, and we never know where hes gone or what hes doing. Hes a good boss and a good man, but hes solitary, and everyone knows better than to cross him.

Oh.

But for you, Daisy? Hes something else entirely.

I cant help the smile that spreads across my face. Marie is right, and despite the fact that Dominic is a mafia man and a dangerous, older guy, the knowledge that hes softer with me than he is with others is intoxicating. I push away the thought of how I just made out with my ex-boyfriend’s dad of all people. The feel-good hormones coursing through me are dulling any of my panicked edges. And then theres the promise of dinner tonight.

So. Besides cannolis, what else are we making tonight Marie?

* * *

By the timethe last patrons leave, Im exhausted but in the best way. Im sweaty, covered in flour, and a bit overwhelmed by the number of dishes, but Marie sends me off with a smile.

Get dressed up for your date, Daisy, she tells me with a wink. You can freshen up in the employee bathroom.

I dont second-guess the older woman, taking my dirty chef coat off and depositing it in the basket next to the employee bathroom. It’s long enough to keep my clothes clean, and after a quick face wash, hair brush, and a spritz of body spray, I feel like a new woman.

Dominic wants me to join him in his office for dinner, and the idea of it makes me feel all jittery and lightheaded. The same office where we just kissed, and I ground myself on him like I have zero self-control. Which, when it comes to Dominic, I might not. Its so unlike me! And hes maybe the most inappropriate person for me to be discovering these feelings with, but I cant help it. Dominic is sexy, strong, and he makes me feel safe. What else can a girl possibly ask for?

I smooth down my shirt and, with my heart in my throat, make my way up to the top floor of the restaurant.

I pass two security guards on the way up, but otherwise, the place seems to be empty with all the employees having left within the last 30 minutes.

Once I get to the top floor, I follow the hallway to Dominics office, my stomach fluttering wildly, and knock once.

The door swings open, and Dominics dark eyes rake over me, his lips twisting into a pleased smirk. Daisy. Come in.

I blush, and Dominic laughs, pulling me inside and pressing a soft kiss to my forehead. Did you have fun tonight, little Daisy?

Yes. Marie is a good teacher.

I’m sure she thinks very highly of you. Youre a good listener, and you dont complain or make excuses.

Thats all it takes, huh?

Dominic cups my face, stroking a thumb over my cheekbone. Thats more important than anything else. You listen. Thats a quality many people your age lack, and youll go far because of it.

I turn my face towards his hand, closing my eyes and savoring the feeling of his skin against mine. The office is dark, lit only by the candles at the small table set up in the center. The scent of the food is intoxicating, but not as much as Dominics touch.

Come and eat. Dominics voice drops, becoming low and husky. Marie sent everything up already. Ive been waiting for you.

I cant take my eyes off him as I go to sit, watching as he lowers himself into the chair across from me. Hes taken off his suit jacket and has the sleeves of his shirt rolled up to display his corded forearms. His collar is open, giving me a glimpse of his chest, and the candlelight dances over his sharp features.

Youre so handsome, I blurt out, and Dominic chuckles.

Thank you, Daisy. You look beautiful yourself.

I bite my lip, blushing and looking down at the spread in front of us. Marie sent up a whole meal, complete with salad, antipasti, and a platter full of pasta. This is too much, I say, surprised. We cant possibly eat all of this.

Marie doesnt hold back, Dominic agrees, picking up his wine and pouring me a glass. But trust me, its delicious, and well enjoy every bite.

Its just dinner.

Hes Carlos dad.

I shouldnt be attracted to him.

I should be disgusted with myself.

Dominic, meanwhile, looks completely at ease. Hes not bothered in the slightest that just a few hours ago, we were making out in the same office were currently having dinner in.

Dominic serves us both, and when he settles back in his seat, he informs me, This is actually my grandmothers pasta recipe. Its what the restaurant is known for. I hope you like it.

I take a bite, and a moan escapes my lips before I can stop myself. Dominics eyes flash, but he says nothing, his lips twitching.

Good?

My mouth is full, so all I can do is nod.

Then, the subject switches so quickly it almost gives me whiplash. I want to get the difficult talk out of the way. My team has been searching for Carlo and using all our connections to do so. Unfortunately, none of the families that we are on good terms with have heard from him, and neither have the families that we are on neutral terms with. That means Carlo is likely working with a crime family that is a lot more ruthless, which makes him more dangerous.

His words make even the delicious pasta taste like ash in my mouth. Oh.

Youre safe, Daisy. This might just take longer to resolve than we thought.

Hes doing so much to protect me—so much work that must be miserable—and having to admit that his son is a bad person. It makes a lump form in my throat. How...how did I get so lucky, Dominic? Why would you defend me over your own son?

Dominics expression is stony, but his eyes betray what hes feeling. You know why.

But Carlo is your family.

And you are under my protection. Nothing about that will change.

The promise is made with such finality that I shiver, and Dominic meets my gaze. Theres a tension in his face and a hunger in his eyes that makes my stomach flip.

Why do you think Im protecting you, Daisy?

Its all too much. Im terrified to say the wrong thing, afraid that Im reading Dominic wrong, so I just stay silent.

Daisy, he demands. Say it.

I cant lie, and I cant avoid the truth. Not to Dominic. So I whisper, Because you like me. Because you want me.

Clever girl. His words are a rumble, a deep vibration that makes me clench my thighs together. Do you know how much I enjoyed watching you work today?

I shake my head.

Do you know how badly I wanted to lift up that ridiculous coat and taste that sweet little pussy?

Dominic, I gasp, my cheeks flaring red. Did he really just say that?!

Hes on his feet now, stalking around the table, cupping the back of my neck once more and urging me to my feet before slanting his mouth against mine.

My head spins, and I cling to him as his tongue strokes mine, as his hand slides over my hip and down. I can feel him pressed against my stomach, thick and hard, and when he squeezes my ass, I let out a muffled moan.

Good girl. He nips at my lower lip. So submissive. So ready. Look at you, Daisy. Youre a mess. Youve been a mess since we met. Is it the danger, hmm? Or is it me?

I cant lie, not with his mouth hovering less than an inch from mine. Yes. You.

Dominic kisses me again, his tongue swirling possessively. Dinner is all but forgotten as he cups my face with both his hands and shows me just how much he approves of my answer.

So responsive, he mutters when we finally pull away. Youre trembling.

Because its you.

Fuck, Daisy, youre going to be the end of me. Youre making me lose my damn mind, and I cant think straight anymore.

Its the hottest thing Ive ever heard. Dominic—always composed, always in charge—admitting he cant control himself.

He pushes the food to the side and picks me up, setting me on the table and stepping between my legs. Were at eye level now, and the way Dominic stares at me, like hes barely holding back a snarl, makes me dizzy.

Are you wet?

Yes, I whisper.

Show me.

My heart pounds in my ears, and I slowly slide my hand down my stomach, fingers fumbling for the button of my jeans. Im burning with embarrassment, but the dark lust in Dominics face has me hooked. I undo the button and slide my hand between my legs, whimpering at the contact.

Tell me, Dominic orders.

Im soaked, I whisper, stroking myself through my panties. And...and Ive never done this before.

Never?

No.

Fuck, Daisy, Dominic growls. Youre a virgin?

I nod, biting my lip. Dominics dark eyes flash, and he reaches for me. With one swift move, my jeans and panties are down and Im bare from the waist down, Dominics hands pushing my knees apart.

I freeze, resisting only out of shock at how fast things are spinning out of control.

Let me see you, Daisy. Dominic’s voice is low and husky. Dont be shy. Show me your wet little pussy.

His words make me squirm, and I open my legs wider, gasping as the cool air hits my throbbing, hot core.

Dominic lets out a guttural groan, his thumb finding my clit, the sharp, wonderful sensation making me jump. Look how swollen and pink you are, Daisy. This little pussy is dripping. Are you desperate for me, little one?

Im panting and squirming, and Dominic is still fully dressed. His thumb swirls around my clit, teasing me, and then hes leaning in and replacing his finger with his tongue, licking me from slit to clit and making me cry out.

There’s no build-up. No questions. Just Dominic responding to what my body is telling him, and right now, it’s begging for his mouth and tongue. My fingers tangle in his hair as I arch forward, chanting internally, more, more, more.

Youre so innocent, Daisy, he mumbles the words against me, sucking at my folds and licking through them, his tongue teasing at my entrance before sliding back up to my sensitive nub. It makes me want to ruin you. It makes me want to lock you in my house and fuck you every day until you forget theres even a world outside my door.

Please, I whimper, not caring what hes saying anymore, only knowing that it feels amazing. I push forward, trying to get closer to his wicked mouth, and he laughs, the sound a warm vibration against me.

Patience, sweet thing. Im going to make this so good for you.

The sensation is overwhelming, and hes making sloppy sounds as he sucks and licks and teases me, my arousal coating his face as I writhe and moan. Hes relentless, not letting up for a second, his tongue swirling and lapping and stroking until Im shaking and crying out.

Dominic. Dom. Oh God. Oh, please.

Daddy, he corrects, the word surprising even my lust-addled mind. Call me Daddy.

Oh fuck, I moan, the idea somehow hotter than anything else hes said or done. Daddy, please.

Come for me, Daisy, Dominic growls, his beard scraping the inside of my thighs. Come for Daddy.

Its filthy and perfect, and I cant stop my orgasm if I try. It surges through me, white-hot and all-consuming, and Dominic chuckles against me, stroking my thighs as I fall back on the table with a moan. All of my muscles seem to tense, then release. Tense, then release. He never stops, keeping his mouth on me as I soar before crashing back down to earth.

You taste incredible. His voice sends aftershocks through my body. My sweet girl, all messy and needy. Im going to enjoy tasting your little cunt over and over and hearing you beg for more.

I sit up, and Dominic reaches for me, tugging me to him and kissing me deeply. I can taste myself on his tongue, and he wraps his arms around me, his hand tangling in my hair.

Perfect, he mutters into my mouth, Lets get you home, sweet Daisy.

Okay, I tell him, letting him pull me to my feet before he pulls my jeans back up for me. Im swaying, feeling like a towel that has been wrung out. When I look up at him, I know my smile must be drowsy. Home. That sounds amazing.”