Meanwhile, Roman remained in his office, the glow of the city lights reflecting off the sleek surfaces. He couldn't focus on Henri's designs—his mind was preoccupied with the memory of Alyzs touch. He found himself staring at the space where she had sat, her scent lingering faintly in the air. On a whim, he walked over to her desk, noticing the scarf she had left behind. It was a soft, silky fabric in a feminine yellow color, a stark contrast to the black-and-white color scheme of his office. He picked it up and held it to his nose, inhaling her sweet, faint perfume. The fabric felt warm, as if it still held the heat of her body.

He knew he had crossed a line, not just with his words. The way he touched her, the electricity that had arced between them—it was undeniable. He felt a twinge of guilt, knowing that he had taken advantage of the situation, but it was quickly overshadowed by the desire that had been building for months. He hadn't expected the evening to unfold this way, but now that it had, he couldn't ignore it.

Roman tucked the scarf into his coat pocket, feeling the softness against his hand. He knew he had to see her again, but somewhere private, to explore this connection that had been simmering beneath the surface. But he was also aware of the risks. A relationship with his assistant could be disastrous for both of them—not to mention their careers. Yet, as he sat there, surrounded by the cold emptiness of his office, the warmth of her scarf seemed to be the only thing keeping him company.

The following day, Alyzs walked into the office dressed impeccably. Roman quirked an eyebrow.

Her outfit was a stark departure from her usual professional attire—a bold red dress that hugged her curves and abstract printed Guissepe open-toe heels that clicked confidently across the floor. She had spent an hour agonizing over her look, hoping it would convey the right message without being too obvious. She had even let her jet black hair down, almost a foot wide off her scalp, styled in a shiny afro, nearly covering her eyes. Her full lips were adorned with crimson matte lipstick. Henri shrilled and snapped, "YASS BAYBEE!" as she walked past him and did an entire spin, letting her silk scarf flutter in the wind behind her, never breaking her stride; she was flawless.

Roman noticed immediately. As she moved around the office, his eyes followed her, a silent storm of emotion brewing within him. He felt a stab of jealousy, wondering if she had come from a tryst or perhaps had plans for later that night. But he said nothing, not wanting to betray the tumultuous thoughts racing through his mind.

He watched as she settled into her chair, her posture straight and poised, her eyes focused on her computer screen. He clenched his fists, feeling a sudden possessiveness that surprised him. He had never been the type to get jealous over a woman that wasn't his, but Alyzs was different. She had been a part of his life's backdrop for the past two and a half years. Now, he wants her to be front and center, a vibrant color in his monochrome world.

Alyzs's pulse quickened as she saw the time on her computer screen. It was almost 2 PM, and she had a meeting to remind Roman about. She took a deep breath and knocked on his office door, her heart racing. "Mr. Dubois," she said, "you have a call with Aliyah in five minutes."

Roman looked up from his paperwork, his expression unreadable. "Ah, yes. Thank you, Alyzs," he said, gesturing for her to come in. "Why don't you join us?"

Surprise flickered across her face, but she quickly composed herself. "If it's all right with you," she said, her voice a little shaky.

As they waited for the call to connect, Alyzs felt the weight of his gaze on her. She couldn't help but think about how his hand had felt on hers the previous night. The room was tense, charged with the unspoken tension brewing between them. When Aliyah's cheerful face popped up on the screen, it was like a breath of fresh air.

Hi, Daddy!" she exclaimed, her voice excitedly.

Roman's face lit up, the tension dissipating like fog in the sun. "Hey, sweetie," he said, his voice warm. "How's your first week of university?"

Aliyah chattered away about her classes, friends, and the fashion club she had joined. Alyzs couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia for her college days, the excitement of new beginnings, and the promise of the future.

"And how's Alyzs?" Aliyah asked, her eyes sparkling. "I miss her so much!"

Roman looked at Alyzs, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Alyzs is right here," he said, gesturing to the chair beside him. "Why don't you say hello?"

Alyzs leaned into the camera, her smile genuine. "Hi, Aliyah," she said. "How's Howard treating you?"

"It's amazing!" Aliyah gushed. "It's just like you said it would be. I wish you were here with me."

The conversation flowed easily, with Alyzs sharing stories of her college experience and offering advice to the eager freshman. Roman watched them, a strange warmth spreading through him. He had never felt this way about a woman before, but something about Alyzs made him want to protect her and to know her more deeply.

As the call ended, Aliyah's smile grew mischievous. "You guys look like you're getting along well," she said, her eyes darting between her father and Alyzs. I hope you're taking good care of him, Alyzs."

Alyzs blushed, unsure of how to respond. Roman chuckled. "Don't worry, Aliyah. Alyzs keeps me in line."

After they said their goodbyes, the silence in the office was deafening. Alyzs felt Roman's gaze on her again. She knew they couldn't ignore what had almost happened the night before, but she didn't know what to say.

Roman broke the silence. "Thank you for joining us," he said, his voice low. "It meant a lot to me."

Alyzs nodded, her eyes locked on his. "Of course," she murmured. "It was my pleasure."

The silence that followed was filled with unspoken words, the air thick with the promise of something more. Roman leaned back in his chair, his gaze traveling over her, taking in every detail of her outfit. "Alyzs," he began, his voice deep and fierce, "you look... exceptional today."

Her heart skipped a beat. She had hoped her attire would make an impact, but hearing the words from Roman's lips was more than she had dared to imagine. She felt a blush creep up her neck. "Thank you, Mr. Dubois," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I just felt like... mixing things up a bit."

He leaned forward, his elbows on the desk, his eyes searching hers. "Is there a special occasion?" he asked, his tone curious. "Or is this for someone in particular?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with meaning. With a sly grin, she said, "It's just... I wanted to feel ...good today. "I can feel good... can't I, Mr Dubois?"

Roman studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable. "Oh, you can," he said, steepling his fingers. You look absolutely stunning."

The compliment hung between them, a connection thread that neither wanted to break. Alyzs felt a warmth spread through her, a glow that seemed to brighten the room. She had never seen this side of Roman, which was gentle and vulnerable. It was intoxicating, and she leaned towards him, drawn in by his words.

"But why the change?" he pressed, his eyes never leaving hers. "There has got to be a reason."

Her mind raced, trying to find the right words. Should she admit her feelings? Would it be professional? Would it ruin everything? But as she looked into his eyes, she knew she couldn't lie. "I just... felt bold this morning. I woke up happy," she said, biting her bottom lip lightly and gazing into Roman's eyes; and to show you a side of me you rarely get to see," she smirked.

Roman's expression softened, and he reached out, touching her arm. "Alyzs, baby, I see you," he said, his voice low and earnest. "But did you disobey me? Miss 'I woke up happy,'" he said teasingly but seriously at the same time.

Alyzs felt a shiver run through her body as she looked up at him. She could feel the heat rising in her cheeks as she bit her lip harder. "No, I didn't," she replied, her voice a mix of innocence and challenge. "But I was so tempted. So, so tempted."

The tension in the room grew thick as if the air itself had become a physical presence, pressing down on them. Roman's eyes searched hers, looking for any sign of a lie. But all he saw was the truth, the raw desire simmering beneath the surface.

He leaned in closer, his breath hot against her neck. "good girl," he murmured, his hand sliding up to the back of her neck. He gently pulled her closer, their bodies almost touching.

The touch sent a jolt through her body, and she knew she had made the right choice. "Thank you," she whispered, her eyes never leaving his.

Romans' movements were quick and decisive without warning. "Come with me," he said, taking her by the hand. Let me make you dinner at my place."

Alyzs's heart leaped into her throat. She had never been to his home before or even seen a glimpse of his personal life. But the way he looked at her, the intensity in his gaze, told her that this was a significant moment. She nodded, unable to form coherent words.

They walked out of the office together, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the city streets. Roman's hand was warm in hers, his grip firm and reassuring. They didn't speak as they made their way to his penthouse apartment, the luxurious building that housed the fashion world's elite.

Inside, the apartment was a stark contrast to the chaotic office. It was sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking view of the city. The kitchen was a chef's dream, with gleaming stainless steel appliances and a marble countertop that gleamed under the soft lighting.

Roman released her hand and moved around the kitchen, quickly pulling ingredients from the fridge. "I hope you like Italian," he said over his shoulder. It's my specialty."

Alyzs nodded, watching him work. His muscles rippled beneath his tailored shirt, his movements precise and economical. She had never seen him like this, so at ease, so... human.

"Make yourself at home," Roman said, his back to her as he chopped vegetables. "Take a look around if you'd like. Just don't go snooping where you're not allowed," he added with a teasing smile.

Alyzs took the opportunity to explore the penthouse, her heels clicking against the gleaming hardwood floors. She peeked into the living room, the walls adorned with modern art and the furniture arranged with an eye for elegance. A grand piano sat in the corner, a silent sentinel to Roman's sophisticated tastes. But his bedroom drew her attention, the door slightly ajar. She hesitated, her hand hovering over the knob, feeling the thrill of curiosity mingling with a hint of fear.

With a deep breath, she pushed the door open and stepped inside. The room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn against the evening glow. The king-sized bed was made with crisp white sheets, and a single black-and-white photograph of a model adorned the wall above it. A faint scent of his cologne lingered in the air, a scent she had come to associate with power and authority.

Her heart raced as she tiptoed across the plush carpet, trying not to disturb the room's perfection. She couldn't help but feel like an intruder, as if peering into a strictly off-limits part of Roman's life. But as she reached the closet, she found herself lingering in the doorway, her eyes drawn to the rumpled bed.

Roman appeared behind her, his presence warming her back. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice a gentle rumble.

Alyzs was startled, spinning around to face him. "I... I'm not sure if I should be in here," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.

He chuckled, the sound rumbling through her. "You're not scared, are you?" He stepped closer, his hand brushing against her arm. "Does my big bad bedroom make you nervous?" he said seductively.

Her cheeks flushed, and she stepped back, her eyes darting around the room. "I... I don't want to overstep," she stuttered.

Roman's smile softened, and he took her hand in his. "You could never overstep with me, Alyzs," he said, his voice low and reassuring. "This is just the beginning."

He led her back to the kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled the air. The tension between them was palpable, a live wire stretching tight. They talked about their lives, dreams, and fears as he cooked. Alyzs felt herself opening up to him, sharing things she had never shared with anyone before. It was as if the walls she had built around herself were crumbling brick by brick, revealing the woman beneath.

The dinner was a delicious blend of flavors, a symphony of Roman's Italian heritage. They sat at the dining table, the candles flickering between them, and shared stories that grew more personal with each glass of wine. Alyzs found herself laughing more than she had in months, the weight of her daily worries slipping away as she lost herself in the warmth of his company.

As the night grew late, the conversation turned to the unspoken tension that had been simmering between them. Roman set his fork down, his gaze intense. "Alyzs," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I don't want to hide this from you anymore."

Her eyes searched his, her heart racing. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely audible.

He reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "I want you," he murmured. "I've wanted you for a long time."

The confession hung in the air, a declaration of desire that seemed to resonate throughout her. Alyzs felt a rush of emotion—excitement, fear, and a sudden, overwhelming need. She didn't know what the future held, but she knew that she couldn't ignore the pull she felt towards him.

"I want you too," she admitted, her voice shaking. "But we have to be careful."

Roman nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "We will be," he promised. "But tonight, let's just be us."

He stood up, pulling her to her feet. His arms wrapped around her, and she melted into his embrace. As their lips met, the world outside the penthouse faded, leaving only the heat of their passion and the promise of what would come.

Roman led her to the living room and sat her on the couch, his hand tracing a path up her leg. He knelt before her, his eyes lingering on her feet. Alyzs felt a shiver run down her spine, his gaze burning a trail from her toes to her knees. He leaned in, his breath hot against her skin. "Your feet," he murmured, "are absolutely exquisite."

Before she could react, he gently unbuckled her heels, sliding them off with a practiced ease. He took her left foot in his hands, his thumbs rubbing slow circles into the arch. Alyzs gasped, the sensation unexpectedly pleasurable. "Is this okay?" he asked, his voice thick with want.

"Y-yes," she managed to say, her eyes fluttering closed. Outside of her weekly pedicures, she had never had a foot rub before, but the way he looked at her and the way his hands felt on her skin was intoxicating.

Roman's hands moved up to her calf, his grip firm and sure. He kneaded the muscles, his touch moving higher and higher until she could feel his thumbs just below her knee. She didn't realize she had been holding her breath until she let it out in a sigh of relief.

"You're so tense," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "Let me take care of you."

The tension in the room was unbearable, a heady mix of desire and anticipation. Roman's hands moved back to her feet, his thumbs pressing into the soft flesh of her soles. Alyzs felt a jolt of pleasure shoot up her leg, making her toes curl.

Without a word, he began to kiss her foot, his lips moving along the arch and up to her ankle. Alyzs's breath hitched in her throat, her eyes flying open. She had never felt anything like this before, the sensation of his mouth on her skin sending shockwaves through her body.

"Roman," she whispered, her voice trembling. "What are you doing?"

He looked up at her, his eyes dark with passion. "You said you wanted to feel good," he replied, his voice low and husky. "And I'm going to make sure you do."

Her heart raced as he continued to kiss and lick her foot, his tongue tracing the outline of each toe. She had heard of foot fetishes before but never experienced it firsthand. The sensation was strange yet incredibly erotic.

He moved to her other foot, his hands massaging her calves as his mouth worshipped her toes. Alyzs felt herself getting lost in the sensation, the tension in her body unraveling like a tightly wound coil.

Roman's eyes never left hers, his gaze burning with an intensity that made her stomach flip. He knew he had her, that she was his to explore and adore. The power dynamic had shifted, and Alyzs found she didn't mind one bit.

But she wasn't about to let him have it all his way. "Mr. Dubois," she said, her voice teasing, "you're making me feel like a dessert you can't resist." "Call me Roman."

He chuckled, the sound low and sensual. "And what's wrong with that?"

Alyzs leaned back into the couch, stretching her legs out before her. "I don't want to come off as too easy," she said, using air quotes, a smirk playing on her lips. "I've got to keep some mystery, after all."

Roman's smile grew, his eyes never leaving hers. "Ah, the elusive Alyzs," he murmured. "Always keeping me guessing."

"I've got to keep you on your toes," she said, a hint of challenge in her voice. "Besides, I should be heading home soon."

His grip on her foot tightened briefly before he released it. "You're right," he said, his voice a bit strained. "We've both had a long day."

The last of the tension dissipated as he helped her to her feet. Alyzs felt a pang of regret—she had wanted to stay, to let him continue his ministrations—but she knew she had to keep the upper hand. She didn't want to be just another conquest in the long line of women who had likely been in this very apartment.

They returned to the kitchen, their footsteps echoing in the quiet space. Roman poured them a final glass of wine, and they sat at the marble counter, the candles casting a soft glow on their faces.

"So, tell me," he said, his voice a gentle caress, "what does Alyzs do when she's not running the world?"

Alyzs took a sip of her wine, her mind racing. "Well," she began, "I like to read, write, design, and... I've been thinking about taking up painting."

"Painting?" Roman's eyebrows shot up. "I had no idea you had an artistic side."

"There's a lot you don't know about me," she said, her eyes sparkling. "But maybe I'll show you if you're good."

He leaned in, his breath warm against her neck. "I'd like that," he murmured, his hand brushing against her hip.

The conversation flowed easily, the air between them charged with unspoken desires. Alyzs knew she had to leave to give them time to process what was happening. But as she stood up, her legs a bit unsteady from the wine and the intensity of their exchange, she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what the future might hold.

"I'll call you a car," Roman said, his voice a bit rough.

"That's not necessary," Alyzs protested. "I can just grab a taxi."

"Nonsense," he replied, pulling out his phone. I'll have my driver take you home." "Alyzs...this will be the only time you leave me wanting, like a lost puppy," he quirked an eyebrow before leaning in and cupping her cheek. "It's not sexual love; I crave your presence; I want you around, okay?" he gently kissed her lips. "Okay, Roman," she whispered into his kisses.

The ride back to her apartment was a blur, her thoughts racing. She had never felt so alive, so seen by someone. As she exited the car, she couldn't help but look back at the sleek building, wondering what tomorrow would bring.