The scent of coffee filled the air as you wiped down the countertops in Alex Vitale’s penthouse. The place was spotless, just as he liked it. The view from the windows was breathtaking, but you barely noticed, too focused on making sure everything was perfect for his return.

“Miss, can you braid my hair?”

You turned to see Sofia, Alex’s 5-year-old daughter, standing in the doorway. Her brown curls and hopeful hazel eyes made her look so much like her father.

“Of course, sweetheart.” You smiled and knelt beside her. “One braid or two?”

“Two!” she giggled.

You braided her hair, feeling the tension of the day ease. Taking care of Sofia had become second nature to you. She was more than a responsibility—she was family.

“Perfect,” you said, tying off the last braid.

“Daddy’s gonna love it,” she grinned.

The front door opened, and your stomach tightened as Alex stepped inside.

Alex Vitale. Tall, sharp, commanding. His tailored black suit fit him perfectly, his cold hazel eyes softening only when they landed on Sofia. Or you.

“Papà!” Sofia squealed, running to him.

Alex scooped her up, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Ciao, bella.” His gaze shifted to you, intense and unreadable, making you feel like the only person in the room.

“Dinner’s almost ready,” you said, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“Good,” he replied, his voice low and sending a shiver down your spine. “I’m starving.”

Sofia chattered as Alex carried her into the living room, but his eyes lingered on you. You could feel the weight of his gaze, the way he watched you when he thought you weren’t looking. You’d tried to ignore it, telling yourself he could never see you as more than the maid.