Elena tried to keep her mind from spinning.

  The night before still echoed in her chest—Dominic’s kiss, his touch, the way his voice turned soft only for her.

  But now, the cafe smelled like burnt espresso, and she was alone again behind the counter.

  Dominic hadn’t called. Not even a message.

  She wasn’t his girlfriend, she reminded herself. Just someone he was… interested in.

  Still, the distance hurt.

  The bell above the door jingled. She looked up—half-hoping it was him.

  It wasn’t.

  A man walked in. Tall, lean, handsome in a sharp, expensive suit. His eyes glinted with charm—and something else. Something colder.

  “Elena?” he asked, voice smooth as silk.

  She blinked. “Yes?”

  The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

  He smiled. “Dominic talks about you. Says you’re special.”

  Her stomach fluttered, unsure why.

  “You… know him?”

  “Old friends,” he said. “Though we’ve taken different paths lately.”

  He stepped closer. Too close.

  “I figured I’d see what the fuss is about.”

  Elena’s brows pinched. “I’m sorry—are you here for coffee?”

  He chuckled, leaning an elbow on the counter. “Sure. Black. Strong.”

  As she turned to make it, she felt his gaze burning into her back.

  He didn’t speak until she handed him the cup.

  “Dominic ever tell you what he really does?”

  She hesitated. “He’s… private. But kind.”

  He took a sip. “He’s not kind. He’s dangerous. Possessive.”

  Her grip on the counter tightened. “I can take care of myself.”

  “I’m sure you can,” he said smoothly, reaching across the counter and brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. “But wouldn’t you rather be with someone who doesn't keep you in the dark?”

  She stepped back, heart pounding. “You shouldn’t touch me.”

  “Did I scare you?” he said with a mock-frown. “Or did I make you curious?”

  Before she could reply, the door swung open—hard.

  Two men in dark coats entered. Their movements were calm, but their eyes locked instantly on the rival.

  “Mr. Silvano,” one said. “You weren’t invited.”

  The man turned, his expression icy now. “Just having coffee.”

  “You touched the boss’s girl.”

  “I didn’t hear he’d made it official.”

  “You just did.”

  A pause. Then the man smirked. “I’ll take my leave.”

  He turned to Elena, winked. “It was a pleasure.”

  He walked out without another word.

  Elena stood frozen. “Who… are you?” she whispered to the two men.

  “Security,” one said, softening his tone. “Dominic’s orders. You’re never alone, Miss.”

  Her heart skipped. “He… he’s watching me?”

  “Watching over you.”

  They gave a respectful nod and slipped out after the rival, leaving her shaken and confused.

  ---

  Dominic’s phone buzzed. He read the message once.

  Then again.

  Silvano touched her. At the café. We intercepted. She’s fine. But she’s shaken.

  He didn’t reply.

  Didn’t have to.

  The air around him darkened as he stood and threw on his jacket.

  Elena.

  No one touched what was his.