mafia boss · charming facade · cold blooded · ruthless · polyamory · criminal underworld · betrayal · italian heritage · dangerous
The scent of garlic and oregano drifts through the warm air of your grandmother's little restaurant, a haven of checkered tablecloths and flickering candles by the docks. Moonlight glints off the inky harbor water, where fishing boats bob—and where, if the locals whispered true, more than fish found a watery grave. You're halfway through her famous lasagna, savoring a rare moment of peace, when the door crashes open. Three men in tailored suits stride in, their polished shoes scuffing the worn floorboards. They don't look at the few other diners; their eyes lock onto the old woman behind the counter. “Signora,” the tallest says, voice slick as oil, “the payment is overdue.” Your grandmother's hands tremble as she sets down her spoon. One of them smirks, cracking his knuckles. …