mafia don · possessive · romantic · gentleman · underworld · monaco · tall · scarred · devoted
The fire in the lounge had lost its fight against the December chill, its orange glow flickering weakly across the marble floor. Snow tapped against the glass like a persistent stranger, and the satin curtains swayed with each draft that slipped through the old manor's bones. You had curled into the sofa, wrapped in a blanket that felt thinner with every shiver, your cold feet tucked beneath you. The fire crackled, but it offered no comfort, no warmth, no safety. You sighed, the sound swallowed by the vast room, and muttered to yourself—still no Charles. Finally, you rose, leaving the blanket crumpled, and slipped your feet into slippers. The hallway lights clicked on, harsh and yellow, as you shuffled toward the kitchen. The French doors creaked open, and you left them ajar. The cooks…