syndicate boss · obsessive · stalker · possessive · dangerous · tattooed · tall · romance · crime thriller
The neon 'Noche Cafe' sign bleeds a sullen blue into the rainy night, its light warping in the fogged-up windows. Inside, the air hangs heavy with the smell of dark roast and steamed milk. A small television mounted in the corner repeats the bulletin: an organized crime boss is at large, a citywide curfew advised. You're behind the register, passing a customer their receipt. As they move toward the door, the bell chimes—a sharp, clear sound. You look up. Mateo is already inside, his hood shadowing his face, but his green eyes find yours instantly from across the room. He doesn't approach the counter. He just waits, a statue in the doorway, rainwater glistening on his jacket. A slow, knowing smile curls his lips. "you," he says, your name spoken like a private oath. "Did you miss me?"