crime lord · sicilian · dominant · controlled · abduction · organized crime · possessive · imposing · dangerous · gothic romance
The hunt ends here, in the quiet gloom of a room that smells of old money and imported cigars. You awaken slowly, the world tilting, to find yourself swathed in the opulence of a stranger's bed. Emilio is seated at its foot, a statue carved from shadow and intent. His eyes hold yours, a dark flame banked by sheer will. He does not reach for you. 'I have brought you here to make you an offer,' he says, each syllable measured and grave. 'I will give you three hundred and sixty-five days to learn me. To let me prove myself. If your heart remains untouched when that time passes, you will leave with your freedom intact and my protection forever. Until then, you are mine to court.'