Chapter 5

Collision Course

Dominic’s POV

I was reviewing the quarterly reports in my office when Matteo knocked and walked in, holding a stack of files. “Boss, the new head of security is here.”

I nodded absentmindedly. It was just another meeting, another name to add to the roster of professionals we’d brought in to tighten our operations. But when I entered the conference room, my heart raced as my eyes caught her bright green eyes.

Alessia.

She sat still, gripping the folder tightly. Her body stifled as if she was preparing for war.

The past came rushing back like a tidal wave. That night. Her lips moaning my name as we moved together on the sheets.

I tried to school my expression, but I couldn’t stop staring. She was different now. She looked more mature and curvier.

Her lips parted slightly, and she whispered my name revealing her shock. “Dominic.”

“Hello, Alessia,” I answered coldly.

I kept looking into her eyes until Matteo's voice broke through the tension, reminding me we weren't alone. “Sir,” he called.

I turned my gaze from her, nodding curly. “Let's begin”

Matteo smiled, oblivious to the charged air. “This is Alessia Cotti, our new Cyber security head. She was recommended by the U.S. track record. She is the best team they have and she'll help us strengthen our systems.”

Matteo didn't recognize her. That made it even better.

“Impressive indeed,” I murmured, my gaze flicking back to her. Her jaw tightened, and I could see the defiance in her eyes.

I stepped forward, extending a hand. “Welcome, Alessia.”

She hesitated before placing her hand in mine. Her touch was warm but fleeting as she pulled away quickly. “Thank you,” she replied, her voice steady but clipped.

I noticed the fear and anger in her eyes. She wanted to run. To escape. I couldn’t let that happen.

“Matteo,” I said smoothly, “I’d like to speak with Alessia alone. We need to ensure we’re aligned on the company’s goals.”

Matteo hesitated, glancing between us. “Of course, sir” he said eventually.

The room was filled with heavy silence as he closed the door.

Alessia straightened her back, meeting my gaze head-on. “Let’s get this over with.”

I smirked, taking a seat across from her. “You seem eager to leave already. Is my company not to your liking?”

“It doesn't matter. I came to work,” she responded coldly.

“So it would seem,” I chuckled.

Her expression turned to a frown and I smiled at the flicker of anger on her face.

“I'd like to hear your experience in the field,” I said, keeping my tone neutral.

She launched into a professional summary of her career, listing achievements and projects with precision. I wasn't listening, only watching her body movements. Her lips were as tempting as the first time and I wondered how they would taste.

“And why cybersecurity?” I interrupted, leaning forward.

She paused, caught off guard by the question. “I have always loved solving puzzles, finding loopholes, and fixing them. It's satisfying.”

“Interesting,” I said, my gaze narrowing as I stepped closer. “And what about personal vulnerabilities? Do you fix those too?”

Her eyes narrowed. “I don’t see how that’s important to you.”

“Everything is relevant, Alessia,” I replied smoothly. “After all, trust is the foundation of any working relationship. Don’t you agree?”

She shifted in her seat, her discomfort showing. “That isn't work related. My private life is my business.”

“Private life?” I mocked, moving my gaze from her eyes to her lips. “It didn't look too private the last time.”

Her face flushed with anger. “If you have something to say, Dominic, say it outright.”

I leaned forward, my voice dropping. “I like the way you call my name. I’m just surprised to see you doing so well for yourself. I thought you’d be...exploring other career paths.”

Her lips parted in shock, and I could see the insult land.

“You’re a jerk,” she spat and grabbed her purse.

She stood up and turned toward the door, but I was faster, grabbing her wrist.

She struggled to free herself from my hold. “Let me go,” she hissed.

“Not until we finish this conversation,” I said firmly, stepping closer.

She yanked her arm, but I held on, spinning her around and pinning her against the wall. Her eyes widened in surprise as I trapped her hands above her head, my body just inches from hers.

“Dominic, what the hell are you doing?” she demanded, her voice a mix of anger and something else.

I smiled, knowing she felt it too. I moved closer, feeling her warm breath on my face. She smelt so heavenly.

“Running away seems to be your style,” I murmured.

“Let me go,” she groaned, struggling against my grip.

My eyes trailed her neck line to her chest watching her breathing. “Why are you really here, Alessia?” I asked, finding her return suspicious.

“If you're thinking I came here for you then you're delusional,” She spat.

“I didn't ask if you came here for me,” I answered, my lips curling into a smirk.

I loved how her green eyes looked larger and darker as she glared at me in anger.

“God damn it, Let me go!” She yelled.

I leaned in closer, tempted to kiss her, but stopped myself.

“You're a pain and I hate you,” she said.

“I know. I'll change that soon,” I countered, touching the fine line of her lower lip with my thumb.

She tried to push me away, but I was stronger. Instead I leaned closer, our lips slightly brushed and her breath hitched.

“You'll start work by 7 am tomorrow morning. I won't tolerate excuses,” I lectured and released her.

“Is that clear?” I asked, watching her rub her wrist before I took a seat.

“You're worse than I remember. You're an arrogant bastard!” She shot back and I smiled.

She still had that fire in her and I like this new side of her.

She glared at me like she wanted to slap me.

“This isn't over,” she muttered and grabbed her purse, slamming the door behind her.

“You're damn right it isn't,” I chuckled, taking out my cigar from my pocket as I lit it. Alessia Cotti was back and I had no intention of letting her slip away again.

I pulled out my phone from my pocket, and dialed Matteo's number. He answered almost immediately. “Yes, boss.”

“Find out where she's leaving. I want all her details ready on my table tonight,” I ordered and hung up.