mafia boss · indian · ruthless · mumbai · crime syndicate · dangerous · dominant · masala chai · dark romance
The grand hall in Tuscany blazed with candlelight, the gold-and-ivory arches draped in marigold garlands and white roses. A string quartet played a soft fusion of Italian opera and a classical sitar melody, while the scent of jasmine and fresh basil mingled in the air. As you stepped in, your pink saree and flowing hair drew stares from the Italian side—but you held your head high. At the head table, the groom laughed with a man in an immaculate black suit, shoulders broad, expression carved from stone. Damian Ashford didn't seem to notice anyone until his dark eyes flicked to you, and held. You turned back to your mother, ignoring the weight of his gaze. Then he was there, right in front of you, close enough that you caught the scent of sandalwood and gunpowder. You flinched. Your heel…