Luca was in the office by 8:15. A bit earlier than his normal routine, but since there were two book launches on the calendar next week and marketing plans to update, a lot of work had to be done. He just needed an extra dose of caffeine to help him deal with work and the stubborn Mr. Duran.

He walked down the hallway toward the kitchen when he suddenly overheard Mac talking. He couldn’t make out all the words, but he heard enough.

“Luca … smart-mouthed, irritating pain in the…”

He’d show him smart-mouthed and irritating. So Luca decided to mouth off, confirming Mac’s opinion. Then he heard another person’s deep laughter and wondered who it belonged to. It was all so clear when he set foot inside the newly improved office space.

“Luca, you remember my grandfather, George, from the wedding,” Mac said as he gave him an icy glare.

“Good to see you again, Luca. I love the changes you made in Mac’s office. It will ensure he is more productive from here on out,” George said as he offered a brief smile and shook his hand.

“Thank you, Mr. Duran, it’s nice that someone appreciates my efforts,” he said and smiled at the older gentleman in return. George was a kinder, greyer version of Mac. With thick silver hair and the same green eyes, handsome ran in the family. George was dressed casually like Luca, in jeans and a navy V-neck sweater.

“No Mr. please. It’s George.” He paused. “Thank you for helping my grandson. He’s prone to stubbornness and overworking, and I worry about him.”

“And where do you think I got that from, hmmm?” Mac joked and got up from his chair to walk around the desk, leaning back on it and crossing his arms and legs.

“Brat,” George said teasingly, and Luca couldn’t help but notice the look of love and respect the two had for each other. “Anyway, I best be off. I have to drop by my accountant’s, then off to yoga class at ten and lunch with my agent.”

“Is there a yoga studio nearby you can recommend?” Luca asked. “Someplace that takes drop-ins? I’m an avid practitioner, and I love to try new classes.” Given how stressful he felt around Mac lately, he needed a class ASAP.

George nodded and pulled out his phone. “Give me your number and I’ll text you the details.”

“Thanks, George. Maybe we can take a class together while I’m here. I don’t know anyone, and it would be a great way to socialize,” he said, then noticed Mac’s scowl deepen.

“Sounds great. I look forward to it,” George said to Luca before he leaned over to hug Mac. “Take care, son. Don’t work too late.” He winked and waved as he headed down the hallway.

“Is there anyone you can’t charm?” Mac asked as he stared at him with those pale green eyes, clear and calm and much more rested than yesterday.

“You, apparently,” Luca rebutted and quickly left the room to head to the kitchen. He smelled rather than heard Mac behind him. Luca carefully prepared an espresso but refused to turn around. Between Mac’s warm, edible scent and the brewing coffee, Luca wanted to let out a loud moan of pleasure but kept himself in check.

“I’ve decided to leave my office as is. You were right. Again,” Mac murmured as he moved in closer. Luca held his breath. He turned slowly to find those stunning green eyes perusing his face, and suddenly, his ears felt warm. He took a big gulp of his espresso to distract himself and winced at the heat.

“Let that cool a bit. After all, you don’t want to burn that sharp tongue of yours,” Mac said with a smirk.

“True. I wouldn’t want to deprive New York’s hottest men of its talent.” He stuck out said tongue and sauntered around Mac. Jesus, he’s got me acting like I’m twelve.

“Very mature.”

“Do you have any other comments about my behavior, or can we get back to work?” Luca said as he placed one hand on his hip. Bring it on, Big Mac. I can argue all day long.