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

“So,” he said, “why no boyfriend?”


I shrugged. “No one who’s interested me lately.” Until you came along and consumed my thoughts, damn it…


“That can’t be the only reason. From what I’ve seen, you’re sociable, intelligent, funny, and you’ve got yourself a decent job. Now, combining all of that with your attractive package, that makes you, as many people might say, a prime catch.”


“Many people might say that, huh? And what would yousay?”


Both the dusting of scarlet in his cheeks and a full, bright smile conveyed the answer. And there it was again, finally—the spark in the black pupils of his eyes that quickly blossomed into another lustful blaze.


My entire body thrummed with energy, while lascivious images flickered through my head, an X-rated Kama Sutra of possibilities for us to explore.


Chapter 27