Page 66 of The Owner's Temptation

He raises one brow. “Organized?”

I don’t confirm or deny it outright, just offer a subtle nod. “Enough to warrant caution. Enough to justify locking down every system I have.”

Jaxon finally takes a sip, eyes assessing. “Fair enough. But if this gets bigger than tech?—”

“I have security already in place for that,” I interrupt quietly, knowing exactly where his thoughts are headed. “I appreciate it, Jax, but I need you focused solely on the infrastructure.”

He nods slowly, clearly dissatisfied with my limited disclosure but knowing better than to push me further.

“Then I’ll have your new servers delivered by next week, backups running immediately after that. The rest will take time, but it’ll be impenetrable when it’s done.”

I give a small, satisfied nod. “Good.”

Jaxon finishes the espresso, sets down his cup, and rises from the chair. He pauses by the door, turning back with his usual cocky smirk. “By the way—your recruit is cute.”

I glare at him, but he holds up his hands, surrendering with a laugh. “Relax, boss. I’m not suicidal.”

He’s still chuckling when the door clicks shut behind him.

* * *

Nearly an hour later, Sienna returns, stepping into my office quietly. She lingers just inside the doorway, freshly painted nails a vibrant, deep red that catches the afternoon sunlight. My gaze narrows slightly, tracing the vivid hue on her fingertips. I half-expected defiance—an act of subtle rebellion to test me—but she's done exactly as she was told.

I’m irritated that she didn’t disobey…and strangely disappointed that she listened.

But her obedience deserves a reward, at least for now.

“Good,” I say smoothly, leaning back in my chair. Her eyes lift sharply to mine, wary but brightening slightly at my praise. I allow a measured pause before continuing, “I’ve got a job for you.”

Interest flickers openly across her expression, and for a split second, she's nearly giddy before quickly schooling her features. The determination to hide her eagerness amuses me, but I don’t let it show.

“My next appointment is a long-standing client who's indicated he wants to close his Ledger account,” I explain, watching her closely. “I want you to entice him to reconsider.”

Her brow furrows delicately, confusion mixed with genuine concern. “How exactly am I supposed to do that?”

Before I can answer, my assistant’s voice crackles over the intercom. “Mr. Vale, your next appointment is here.”

Perfect timing.

I rise smoothly from my chair, buttoning the top button of my jacket as I cross the room. “Convince him to stay with only your presence.” Pausing near her, I lower my voice, the command slipping from me effortlessly. “Don't say a single word to him the entire time.”

She blinks, clearly startled, lips parting to argue—but the door opens, cutting off any further protest.

Long time vendor and client of The Ledger, Mateo Calderón steps into my office with an ease that belies the tension beneath his careful smile. He reaches forward, his grip firm as we shake hands.

“Lucian,” Mateo says warmly, though the warmth doesn’t quite touch his eyes. “It’s been a while.”

“Mateo,” I return evenly, gesturing toward the plush seating area opposite my desk. “Good to see you. Please, sit.”

He nods, settling onto one of the leather chairs with practiced casualness.

My hand moves to the small of Sienna’s back as I guide her away from my desk, toward the sitting area with us. Mateo follows her every step as she crosses in front of me to take the seat next to me.

His gaze drags slowly over her, openly possessive. It's subtle enough that someone less attuned wouldn't notice, but my jaw tightens at the implication.

It irritates me—and something darker coils deep in my gut. Protectiveness flares unexpectedly, making my muscles tense.

“Lucian. I appreciate you seeing me so promptly.”

---