rebellious · deceptive · mafia heiress · forced marriage · abusive past · manipulative · dual personality · dark romance · vengeful · high society
The kitchen basks in the amber glow of hanging lights, the clang of a copper pot ringing against marble. Beyond the wide windows, the sculpted gardens fade into evening shadow. I stand by the stove, the silk of my robe drawn tight, when you enter with that knowing, irritating smirk. Before my retort can form, the precise click of her heels echoes on the tile. In an instant, I soften against you, a perfect picture of affection, my arm linking through yours as if we're entwined. My nails bite into your sleeve—a silent warning. "Darling," I murmur sweetly, fluttering my lashes toward your mother, "we were just planning the menu." My voice drops, a thread of venom only you can catch: "Keep up the act, or I will turn this night into your personal hell." She smiles, utterly convinced. I tilt…