Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask (by Silver Spoon) novel Chapter 286

Chapter 286: Chapter 70 Belonging to Him

Lila’s POV

I was absolutely thriving in my new position within the Thorne family’s legitimate operations. Working at Dominic’s front company had been educational, but being stationed in Don Caleb’s executive offices took things to an entirely different level. My responsibilities extended far beyond typical clerical work—I handled sensitive communications and managed confidential files that required the highest discretion. Unlike my previous sales role, this position challenged my intellect while keeping me at the heart of the family’s carefully orchestrated business empire.

"Little June, your dedication is remarkable. You grasp the complexities so quickly," Jude commended, handing me a stack of encrypted documents with an approving nod. "You already understand exactly how to handle these sensitive materials."

"Thank you, Jude. I’m genuinely excited to be part of this organization," I replied with enthusiasm—until the executive elevator doors slid open with their distinctive chime.

Detective Adler and Detective Daniel Martinez emerged, their official shields gleaming under the office lights. I hadn’t seen Daniel since he’d left my apartment that weekend evening, his parting words still echoing in my mind. Now here he was, approaching with that devastating smile that made my pulse quicken dangerously. Thank God I was seated because my legs immediately turned to liquid. Standing well over six feet with those powerful shoulders and that irresistibly dangerous face, he embodied everything forbidden that my sheltered upbringing had warned me against. This man completely short-circuited my rational thinking.

"Detectives, good afternoon," Jude hurried forward to greet them, immediately engaging Detective Adler in hushed conversation about recent territorial disturbances.

"Good afternoon, Lila," the gorgeous giant approached my desk, his presence commanding the entire space.

"Good afternoon, Detective Martinez," I managed with forced professionalism, struggling to maintain my composure under his intense gaze.

"Lila, please call me Daniel when we’re not conducting official business," his smile was so devastatingly beautiful it made me want to vault across the desk and claim his mouth. Heat rushed to my cheeks as inappropriate thoughts flooded my mind. "How are you adjusting to your new responsibilities, little one?"

"F-fine. And you?" I stammered as his fingertips deliberately brushed against mine while reaching for a file.

"Excellent. Just finished securing the penthouse apartment I acquired in the safe district. How about having dinner with me tonight and inspecting my new place?" Those brilliant brown eyes were practically hypnotizing me with their intensity.

"N-not tonight," I cursed internally as my nervousness made me either stutter helplessly or go completely mute. "I’m meeting the girls."

"Ah yes, the support network, as Don Caleb calls your group," he tucked a rebellious strand of hair behind my ear, his gentle touch sending electricity down my spine. "But aren’t those gatherings usually scheduled for earlier in the week? Today’s later in the week."

"We rescheduled this week," I managed without sounding completely breathless, proud of my small victory.

"Then join me tomorrow evening. Do you have classes?"

"Yes. And since I’m missing today’s lecture, I absolutely cannot skip tomorrow as well," I tried avoiding his penetrating stare, but he gently tilted my chin upward, forcing me to meet those captivating eyes.

"That presents no complications. I’ll collect you after your classes conclude and we’ll have dinner at my place," his tone brooked no argument. He’d reached his decision and that was final—typical of men in his position of power.

"Ma’am, we need to speak with Don Thorne," Detective Adler approached formally, and I immediately announced their arrival. They disappeared into Caleb’s private office, finally allowing me to breathe normally again.

After their meeting concluded, Detective Adler offered professional farewells while Daniel lingered at my workstation, his presence both thrilling and intimidating.

"I’ll collect you at the university tomorrow, beautiful little one," he leaned down and pressed his lips to my cheek in a gesture that felt far more intimate than professional courtesy before heading toward the executive elevator.

"Hey Lila," Jude teased from his office doorway, having witnessed the entire exchange. I gave him a slightly embarrassed smile before he returned to his duties and I attempted to refocus on work.

Later, during my coffee break, I returned to find a package on my desk. I found it peculiar that someone had left it without requiring my signature, but perhaps security had accepted it on my behalf. Upon closer inspection, the address label clearly read Ivy’s name.

After delivering the package to Ivy’s office, absolute chaos erupted throughout the building. The contents revealed a serious threat against Don Caleb’s wife, and suddenly everyone was mobilizing security protocols I’d never witnessed before. Before I could fully process the rapidly escalating situation, armed guards were being repositioned, communication channels were buzzing with coded messages, and somehow Daniel had determined I would be relocating to his protected residence for several days. I hadn’t even moved into Gemma’s apartment yet.

Arguing with these men proved utterly futile—they’d reached their decisions regarding everyone’s safety, and the situation clearly posed genuine dangers that I couldn’t fully comprehend. I returned home under armed escort provided by Don Caleb’s security detail, hastily packed essential items for an extended stay at Daniel’s place, and then met with my girlfriends for emergency consultation. After listening to their collective wisdom, I decided to embrace complete honesty, as we say back home. I would tell Daniel everything about my inexperience, and if he couldn’t accept it, he could find himself another woman.

Later that night, Daniel arrived to collect me. He approached with that broad smile that made my heart race uncontrollably. He looked devastatingly attractive in black jeans and a black dress shirt with rolled sleeves and three buttons undone, revealing tantalizing glimpses of his chest. I couldn’t tear my gaze away from him.

"Hello, beautiful little one," his lips brushed my cheek with practiced ease. "Shall we go?" I nodded and waved goodbye to my concerned friends.

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