My Dominant CEO

Vasti felt lightheaded-she really couldn't handle much alcohol. When she finally made her way to the bathroom, someone had already locked themselves inside.

Great, she muttered under her breath, leaning against the wall. After a couple of minutes, she gave up waiting in silence and knocked. "Hello? Are you going to be much longer?"

No one answered, at least not directly. But she could have sworn she heard a muffled moan. Curious-and a little annoyed-she pressed her ear closer to the door. This time, she caught a man's voice coming from inside.

Oh, come on... Seriously? Vasti pleaded, her patience wearing thin. "Guys, some of us are actually desperate here!"

Vasti wasn't naive. It was obvious-some couple had turned the nightclub bathroom into their own private suite. Typical.

What an inconsiderate thing to do! Vasti thought.

The sounds inside shifted: clothes rustling, a zipper being yanked up, and then the door finally swung open. A tall, stunning blonde stepped out, her lipstick smudged and her eyes bold, casually wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. Vasti didn't need to ask what had just gone down.

Way to kill the vibe, the woman scoffed, bumping Vasti's shoulder as she breezed past.

Spare me! Vasti thought, making a face.

Oh, please, she muttered aloud, finally stepping toward the bathroom-only to freeze when she found herself staring into a pair of unmistakable green eyes.

She blinked. "You've got to be kidding me!"

The man studied her with that lazy, crooked grin, hands shoved deep in his pockets, eyes gleaming with something between arrogance and contempt.

You just never quit, do you? the man said, his gaze raking over her in a way that made her skin crawl. The smile stayed cocky, but his eyes were pure disdain.

The shock wore off fast, and Vasti snapped her jaw shut, brow furrowing as she glared at him.

What's that supposed to mean? she shot back, her own look loaded with annoyance.

He scoffed, scanned the hallway like he couldn't believe his luck, then locked eyes with her again.

I can't stand women who act clueless. If you're that desperate, just say so. No need to play games-or stalk me.

For a second, Vasti could only stare at the man, dumbfounded, completely floored by his nerve.

What the hell are you talking about?! she yelled. "Are you out of your mind?" Maybe he was-after all, thanks to him, she'd lost her job. "Because of you, I got fired! And for what? Just for accidentally bumping into you?"

She shook her head in disbelief while he arched a smug eyebrow. Vasti didn't let up.

And now, as if that wasn't enough, you're accusing me of stalking you? She laughed, sharp and mocking, giving him a slow once-over. "Just so you know, I'm here with a friend-someone who actually knows the staff here. This nightclub is our usual spot. I only came tonight because I needed a break after some arrogant, self-absorbed jerk fired me for no reason. So, if anyone's following someone, maybe you should look in the mirror!"

Vasti knew she shouldn't be trash-talking her boss to his face, but right now, she didn't care.

No, no-ex-boss, she reminded herself. Of course, ex. She didn't owe him a single ounce of restraint. The man had been a complete ass, and thanks to his theatrics, Vasti had lost her job. She was sure he'd been behind it all! "As if my family drama wasn't enough, now I'm dealing with this nightmare on legs."

The man drew a sharp breath, then moved in one quick motion-grabbing Vasti's arm and yanking her into the bathroom before she had time to protest. The door slammed shut behind them, and her back hit the wood. She barely got a word out before his mouth crashed down on hers, warm and unyielding.

Oh! Vasti gasped, caught completely off guard. The man pinned her wrists above her head with one powerful hand, leaving her no chance to move, while his other hand held her firmly by the waist.

Her lips parted in shock, and he wasted no time, deepening the kiss until it left her breathless. She couldn't deny it-a day spent cursing his name, and now she was melting against him. His knee slid between Vasti's legs, pushing them apart, letting him get closer still. Vasti wasn't the type to let a stranger kiss her, but right now, logic was nowhere in sight.

Hey! Vasti? A sharp knock at the door surprised Vasti. The man didn't let go immediately. Instead, he slowly released her wrists, letting her hands drift down. Then he guided one of her hands to his chest, his own touch gentler now as he brushed his fingers across her cheek.

I-I'll be right there! Vasti stammered, lips still tingling and breath all over the place. "Just give me a minute! I'm coming out now!"

Okay... Fernanda's heels clicked away down the hall, leaving Vasti alone with him. Vasti glanced up. His hair looked annoyingly perfect, his face hovered close, and his lips curled into a self-satisfied smile.

You should probably get going before you're late tomorrow, he murmured, his voice low and rough.

Late? Vasti echoed, her brain still struggling to keep up.

He grinned wider. "Of course. You're my temp secretary, remember?" He brushed a quick kiss against her neck, making her shiver. "And I don't tolerate tardiness."

It hit her all at once-she was talking to the boss himself. Vasti shoved him away, fury flashing in her eyes.

What the hell are you talking about? she demanded. "I got fired! Because of you!"

He took a step back, still holding her by the waist, then gently moved her aside to open the door.

Well, you're hired again. Just don't be late, the striking man said with a wink, then strolled out, leaving Vasti stunned and speechless.

Her legs felt unsteady, but somehow she managed to make her way back to the table where Fernanda and Will sat waiting.

Whoa! What happened to you? Fernanda asked, then took a closer look at her friend. Even with the dim lights, it was obvious-Vasti's lips were swollen and bare, her hair a mess, and her clothes rumpled.

Will spotted it too, barely hiding his amusement.

You little troublemaker! Fernanda teased, giving Vasti a playful smack on the arm. But Vasti didn't react-she looked completely rattled. Fernanda's smile faded fast. "Wait... Did somebody force you to do something?"

Fernanda shot up from her seat, instincts kicking in as she scanned the room for any hint of danger, ready to protect at all costs.

Oh, no. I... I have to go, Vasti stammered.

What? Why? Fernanda pressed, unsettled by Vasti's weird behavior. "Come on, just tell me-did somebody bother you? Did anyone get handsy?"

Fernanda, the Latina with long dark hair flowing over her shoulders, watched Vasti with genuine concern.

I just... I can't be late tomorrow, Vasti said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Fernanda exchanged a confused glance with Will.

What are you even talking about?

Vasti shrugged. "Looks like I got my job back." That got Fernanda's eyebrows shooting up.

Um... well, that's good news. I think? Fernanda said, still eyeing her warily as Vasti pulled a bill from her purse, left it on the table, and leaned in for a quick kiss on Fernanda's cheek. She gave Will a quick wave before making a beeline for the door.

Fernanda's boyfriend couldn't hold back a laugh. "Your friend's kind of nuts."

Fernanda rolled her eyes. "I'm getting to the bottom of this tomorrow. But for now, you and I are going to have some fun."

Out on the street, Vasti suddenly realized she never even managed to use the restroom.

Perfect! I hope the taxi shows up soon... she muttered.

A low, unfamiliar voice broke through the night. "A woman like you, out here alone at this hour... That's not exactly safe, is it?" The words caught her off guard, but she turned slowly to face him, ready for anything.

What do you want? Her tone was flat-Vasti had no patience left to spare.

Is that really how you greet your boss? He flashed a sideways grin and held the car door open. "Get in."

Vasti glanced at the car, then shot him a look and let out a sarcastic laugh.

Oh, right. Of course, she said, already pulling out her phone to call a taxi, completely ignoring his order.

Get in, he said again, this time with more authority. "I'm serious. It isn't safe out here."

Thanks, but my safety isn't your problem, she replied, cool and dismissive. "Besides, you look pretty dangerous yourself. I don't even know you!"

Vasti twisted her mouth in irritation. Was this guy really Mr. Gonzalez? Unbelievable! The nerve to kiss her after whatever stunt he'd pulled with that blonde in the bathroom. The thought made Vasti's skin crawl.

Miss... he started, his tone shifting.

No way! After what happened in the bathroom, getting into a car with you sounds like a terrible idea, Vasti replied, forcing a tight smile.

She couldn't deny the kiss had sent her reeling, but he didn't need to know that-and letting it happen again would just be asking for trouble.

He stepped closer and gently covered her hand, stopping her from tapping her phone.

Please, he said, voice suddenly serious. "I promise I'll be on my best behavior."

Vasti hesitated, glancing between him, the car, and the empty street. During the day, this place buzzed with people, but once night fell, it turned deserted-and she was fully aware of that. Staying here alone wouldn't be smart. Besides, security cameras lined the area-he wouldn't risk pulling anything stupid. They'd know exactly who he was.

Fine, she said at last. Vasti brushed past him and slid into the passenger seat. He shut the door for her, and she buckled her seatbelt, waiting as he circled around to the driver's side. She didn't know much about cars, but this one practically screamed money-the leather seats were buttery soft, the dashboard was loaded with touch controls, and there was even a sleek onboard screen.

He got in, adjusted a few settings, and started the engine.

After a few minutes of silence, he finally spoke, eyes fixed on the road.

You're pretty rebellious, you know that?

What's that supposed to mean? Why do you say that? Vasti raised an eyebrow.

It's the way you talk back, he said. "Not just now-back in the bathroom, too."

The mention of the bathroom made her cheeks burn. She stared down at her hands for a second, but quickly forced herself to look straight ahead. No way was she going to let him see her flustered.

That wasn't rebellion, she replied evenly. "I was just standing up for myself. And as for saying no, it's not like I owe you obedience."

He smirked. "You mean, you don't owe me obedience."

We're not at work, she shot back. "So, no. Not you."

He laughed, low and genuine.

Like I said-rebellious.

Vasti turned to the window, noticing they were already close to her neighborhood. Suddenly, it hit her.

Wait... I never told you where I live.

No need, he replied, quick and casual.

What's that supposed to mean? You planning to just drive in circles all night? she asked, suspicion creeping in.

I know where you live, Miss Vasti.

He shot her a brief look before pulling up near her building.

Vasti stared at him, startled. He used her full name, yet she still had no idea what his was.

How do you know my address? she asked, her voice suddenly tight, a flicker of panic in her chest.

You work for me. HR has all your details, he answered, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

She eyed him skeptically.

So, you memorize the address of every employee under you? That's impressive. Her sarcasm was thick.

He unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to face her, eyes locked on hers.

Only the ones who interest me.

His gaze never wavered-dark, intense, as if he was seeing right through her, undressing every layer she had left.

Thanks for the ride, Mr...? she prompted, hoping he'd finally give her a name.

Good night, Miss Cortez. He stared at her, all business.

He clearly understood what she wanted, but he wasn't budging. As far as he was concerned, she should already know-he was her boss, after all. The fact that she didn't seemed to annoy him.

Your name? Please, she pressed, refusing to let it go. Vasti knew the company belonged to someone named Gonzalez, but she'd never caught this man's first name, even though he'd worked on her floor and clearly outranked her.

Do you even know my title in the company? he asked, one eyebrow raised.

Actually, no. I have no clue who you are-other than the guy who fired me and then said I could have my job back. How's that supposed to work, anyway? Did you really get in touch with Mr. Gonzalez at this hour?

He leaned in close, his voice dropping to a whisper at Vasti's ear.

Adônis MacGyver, he murmured, pausing for effect. "Adônis MacGyver. President of the company." He winked.

The warmth of his breath sent a shiver down her spine. She caught herself sighing and mentally cursed her own reaction.

Oh, God... The devil himself! Get it together, Vasti. Breathe.

Good evening, she said, barely above a whisper as she reached for the door handle-but he caught her wrist, stopping her.

I'll have to teach you some manners, young lady. It's 'Good evening, sir.' He fixed her with a look. "You'll learn."

He stole a quick kiss, then finally let her go. Vasti climbed out, legs still trembling.

And Miss Cortez? he called, making her turn. "Lilac."

He rolled up his window and drove off, leaving her rooted to the spot, staring after his taillights long after they vanished.

Insane! What the hell did he mean by 'Lilac'? she muttered.

Meanwhile, inside the car, Adônis MacGyver grinned to himself.

So, she wants to play games? he mused. "Let's play. She's absolutely gorgeous. Maybe..."

Back at home, Vasti seethed with frustration. She couldn't stop thinking about how that man-Adônis MacGyver-had gotten her fired in the first place.

Earlier That Day...

Vasti had started her temp job in high spirits. It wasn't permanent, but it was enough to help cover her grandmother's medical bills, and right now, that money was a lifeline.

While heading to HR, she'd bumped into a strikingly handsome man-who'd turned out to be rude as hell. She'd brushed it off, not giving it much thought. Later, when she stopped to get a glass of water, she barely had time to turn around before someone bumped her from behind. The water sloshed out of the cup and soaked her blouse.

You again? came the man's voice, laced with annoyance. She glanced up. It was the same man from before!

He eyed Vasti's dripping blouse, then shot her a look that reeked of irritation. He raised a brow and brushed past Vasti, his expression twisted in obvious disgust.

Vasti, trying to cover herself, hurried off to the restroom. So much for thinking he was good-looking-he was an absolute jerk!

Of all the people in this building, he just had to work on my floor, she fumed.

Before she could settle into her chair, Heidi-the supervisor and her trainer-called her into the office.

Yes? What's going on? Vasti knocked gently before entering.

Heidi rubbed her hands together and bit her lip, clearly uncomfortable. Vasti's chest tightened with dread.

Oh, I don't even know how to say this, Heidi said, her voice wavering. "But... I'm just following orders, alright? You're fired."

Shaking her head, Vasti stripped off her clothes and stepped into the shower. She set her alarm to ring early-there was no way she'd risk being late. The new boss might be devastatingly handsome and, Vasti had to admit, a total catch, but he looked like the type who noticed everything and had no patience for mistakes. The last thing she wanted was to end up on his bad side.

That night, her dreams were a feverish mix of steamy moments and anxious office drama.

After slapping the snooze button for a good ten minutes, Vasti finally silenced the alarm, stretched, and forced herself out of bed.

She considered letting her temper win and just skipping work altogether. But reality hit-she needed that job, not just for herself, but for her grandmother. If it weren't for that, she really would've blown off the whole thing and started hunting for something new.

I'll look for something else... but until then, I have to deal with this, she muttered, heading for the bathroom to brush her teeth. Her head throbbed, and Vasti cursed herself for drinking the night before. "If I'd known I'd have to work, I wouldn't have done this. All that wicked man's fault!"

She downed an aspirin, rummaged through her underwear drawer, and grabbed the first pair she found. Matching sets weren't her style-she usually stuck to black, white, or beige, and honestly, it never mattered to her. The only rule was simple: nothing torn, nothing stained, nothing she'd be embarrassed to be found wearing. If she ever dropped dead in public, at least nobody would badmouth her underwear. Her grandmother's voice echoed in her mind-a woman's honor was everything, and Vasti had no plans to be remembered as careless.

She picked out a black sheath dress with a built-in belt, which hugged her figure just right while still being perfectly professional. Her makeup was usually light, but this morning she went heavy on the concealer to hide the dark circles left over from her late night. She pulled her hair into a bun-messy, but neat enough to pass. Taking a steadying breath, Vasti grabbed her purse and headed out to catch the subway. For once, she had enough time and didn't need a taxi.

Less than an hour later, she walked into the building, took the elevator, and waited for the crowd to empty before stepping out on her floor.

Heidi had already gotten word: there was no need to hire anyone new, since Miss Cortez had been reinstated. Heidi was burning with curiosity but kept her questions to herself. The last thing she wanted was to risk upsetting the boss and having it blow back on Vasti. Heidi figured she'd just ask the girl herself when she got the chance.

Vasti! Heidi called out. Then, catching herself, she added, "I mean, Miss Cortez!"

Oh, just call me Vasti, Miss Diaz.

Then call me Heidi, the woman said, giving Vasti a warm smile. "Come on, your desk is all set up and waiting!"

Vasti grinned and followed Heidi down the hall. The rest of the day went smoothly-she worked hard, picked up plenty of new things, and nothing out of the ordinary happened. Near six o'clock, Heidi approached her again.

Vasti, could you do me a favor?

Sure, Vasti agreed. She wasn't visiting her grandmother until the next day anyway.

I need to go over this document, but there's a bit of an emergency at home. Could you handle it for me? Heidi asked, her eyes pleading.

No problem. Just tell me exactly what needs to be done, Vasti replied.

Heidi practically bounced with relief.

Thank you! She quickly walked Vasti through the details, reminding her to call if anything came up.

Back at her desk, Vasti dove into the work, determined to finish by eight. She couldn't wait to get home and finally collapse into bed. She planned to see her grandmother in the hospital the next day, so an early night out of work was non-negotiable.

She barely noticed the office emptying out as she worked. It wasn't until she stood to grab some coffee that she realized the entire floor was eerily quiet.

Good grief... she muttered, heading for the pantry.

Leaning against the counter, Vasti waited for the coffee to brew, eyes closed as she took a slow, calming breath. That was when she felt a pair of hands slide around her waist-making her jump.

Easy... came a low, seductive whisper-the same voice she'd been thinking about all day. It was hoarse and teasing, sending a shiver straight down her spine.

M-Mr. Gonzalez! Vasti stammered, placing her hands over his, trying to pry them off. He only took that as an invitation, pulling her even closer.

So tempting, he murmured, nuzzling Vasti's neck, breathing her in before pressing a kiss against her skin.

Adônis MacGyver never crossed lines with employees-not if he wanted them to stick around. But something about Vasti drove him to lose his grip. Ever since he first saw her, she'd been on his mind, and after last night, he hadn't been able to think of anything else.

No! What do you think you're doing? she protested, turning her face to glare at him-except their faces were suddenly inches apart. Her words vanished. Adônis MacGyver caught her chin, angled her toward him, and kissed her. Before Vasti could recover, he lifted her by the knees and settled her on the counter.

Now let's see if you've been a good girl, he said, hands gliding up her thighs as he gave her that crooked smile. He kissed her again, then paused, glancing down. "Beige?" he asked, sounding almost disappointed.

Vasti, lost in the moment, hadn't even realized her dress had ridden up, exposing her underwear. She tried to close her legs, but he blocked her, standing firmly between them.

This is completely inappropriate! You're my boss-you can't do this! she protested, hands pressed to his chest, trying both to steady herself and to push him back as she slid off the counter.

Didn't I say lilac? he asked, sidestepping Vasti's protest. He'd heard every word, knew she was right, but chose to ignore it for now. Adônis MacGyver's expression grew more serious as he raised an eyebrow.

Oh, so you expected me to wear lilac underwear? Vasti shot back, laughing nervously. "And why would I do that? Why should I take orders from you about something so personal? You might be my boss, but you don't control my private life!"

Because I told you to, he replied, flat and unapologetic, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

She held his gaze for a moment, then let out a derisive laugh.

I might work for you, but I'm not your property. What's going on in that head of yours?

He stepped even closer, his eyes locking onto hers, leaving her throat dry and her thoughts scattered. And, whether she wanted to admit it or not, her body responded in a way she couldn't ignore.

I know you want to be dominated, Miss Cortez, he murmured, pulling her in by the waist until their bodies were flush. Vasti could feel the hard line of his pants pressing right against her, more intense than anything she'd ever felt before. "And I intend to take control of you-exactly the way you deserve."