Project Director Zane Caldwell has a major problem -- a charming, go-getter hotshot from Chicago named Ford Trionni, recently hired at Widdley Finch Inc., a Connecticut-based marketing research company. The man, whom the secretarial pool nicknamed "The Italian Stallion" based on his stunning good looks and sexual aura, has also gained the reputation of a superstar in the industry due to his innovative analytical techniques. The trouble is, the man wears his accolades like a badge on his lapel, strutting around the office like a peacock.<br><br>Ford's self-centered, lofty attitude drives Zane to utter distraction. Even worse, the man seems to know it, intentionally using his sizzling sex appeal to tie Zane's patience and libido into knots while giving off mixed messages of mutual attraction. But from what Zane can tell, Ford's already involved in an intense relationship with someone else, and the last thing Zane wants is to fall for a guy who not only treats him like a peon instead of an equal, but intends to make him a side dish to his current love affair.<br><br>Yet as he works with Ford on an important account, Zane begins to realize there's more to Ford than the man lets on, and all may not be what it seems. As the heat between them builds into an inferno despite their contrary work relationship, Zane vows to get to the bottom of Ford's confusing behavior once and for all. Is the man playing games with Zane's job and his heart, or is there a chance they might actually discover they're the perfect partners?

And the Survey Says

Yes, I liked this new view of him. I liked it one hell of a lot. So much so that I half-heartedly wondered if Mallory’s “Zord” power-couple fantasy could eventually become a reality. 10


After we wrapped up the serious topic regarding his brother, Ford seemed shockingly relieved, as if spilling his guts about his personal troubles, voicing aloud his mounting frustrations, had been a foreign concept and only until this moment did he comprehend its therapeutic value. He appeared more at ease, yet also more animated and outgoing, than I had ever seen him. Before long, he removed his tie altogether, rolling it up and slipping it into a coat pocket. I took special interest when he also unfastened another two buttons on his shirt, which provided me with a benevolent view of his solid pecs and curly chest hair. Not long afterward, I followed his example with my own tie and shirt. It thrilled me to see him checking me out as well, and doing nothing to hide the fact, either.


Chapter 26