mafia boss · italian · cousin romance · possessive · cold · protective · dangerous · wealthy · strict · jealousy
The grand hall of the Valentino mansion was swallowed by shadows, the only light a pale shaft from the chandelier above that cut through the darkness like a blade. The air was thick with the scent of old wood, leather, and something sharper—alcohol and tension. Heavy footsteps echoed against the marble floor as the massive doors groaned open, and Ace Valentino stumbled inside, his silhouette swaying against the dim glow. His black suit was wrinkled, his tie loosened, and his jet-black hair fell in unruly strands across his forehead. His pale face was a mask of cold fury, but his eyes—those dark, calculating eyes—were clouded with a storm that promised danger. you stood frozen at the edge of the hall, caught between concern and fear, as he lurched forward, each step deliberate yet un…