Chapter 3
Vince
I step into my penthouse, the door closing behind me with a soft click. The city lights twinkle beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, but I barely notice them. My mind is filled with images of Emily - her sparkling eyes, the softness of her lips, the way her body fit perfectly against mine.
"Marco," I call out, knowing my right-hand man is never far away.
He appears from the adjoining room, alert and ready as always. "Boss?"
"I need you to find out everything you can about Emily Bennett. Leave no stone unturned, but be discreet. I don't want her to know we're looking into her background."
Marco nods, his face impassive. "Anything specific you're looking for?"
I pause, considering. "Everything. Her work, her family, her connections. I want to know everything, Marco. All of it."
"Consider it done," he replies. "There's something else you should know, boss. The Genovese family has been making moves in our territory. We've spotted several of their men tailing you over the past few days."
I frown, moving to pour myself a drink. "Any idea what they're after?"
Marco shakes his head. "Not yet. But they're getting bolder. It might be time to send a message."
I take a sip of whiskey, letting the burn distract me from the anger building inside. "Let's wait and see for now. But increase security. I don't want any surprises."
"And what about the girl?" Marco asks carefully. "If the Genovese are watching you, they'll see her too. It could be dangerous for her to be associated with you."
I close my eyes, Emily's face flashing in my mind. He’s right. I’ve had the same thought. The idea of her in danger makes my blood boil. But the idea of staying away from her... it's physically painful.
"I know," I say finally, opening my eyes to meet Marco's concerned gaze. "But there's something about her. She's different.” I pause. “Make sure we have men watching her too."
Marco nods, understanding in his eyes. "We will. Discreetly."
"Thank you," I say, feeling gratitude for the loyalty he has always shown, both to me and my family. "Keep me updated on both fronts."
As Marco leaves, I turn to look out over the city. Somewhere out there, Emily is going about her life, unaware of the danger that might be creeping closer because of me. I should let her go, keep her safe by staying far away. But I'm too selfish, too drawn to her already.
Heading to my room, I strip and toss my clothes on the floor before stepping into my glass-enclosed shower, letting the hot water sluice over my back. Closing my eyes, I imagine Emily in here with me, water running down her naked body.
My cock hardens instantly. I picture her hands pressed against the wall, her ass out as she looks over her shoulder at me, mouth open and panting as I ram into her from behind. I picture her perfect ass bouncing with every deep thrust as I make her scream with pleasure.
My hand wraps around the swollen rod of my cock and I stroke myself to the rhythm of my imaginary thrusts. I come faster and harder than I have in a long time, the desire for this woman pushing me over the edge.
Standing under the hot shower, I have to take a few deep breaths. Never in my 34 years have I met a woman that I wanted more than a quick fuck from. I’ve never considered taking a wife, never wanted a woman for more than the release I find with them. But then, I’ve never met a woman like Emily. Never met a woman whose mind intrigues me as much as her body.
When my father was killed and I became boss, I put all thoughts of relationships aside to focus solely on running the business. And I’ve done a damn good job of it.
But later, as I lay in bed, failing to sleep with thoughts consumed by her, I let myself wonder for a brief moment what life might be like if we had met in different circumstances. If I were a different kind of man. The thought lingers for just a brief moment before I banish it. I give myself a mental shake and roll over, punching my pillow. I’m the King of Manhattan, and whatever this is can’t last.