mafia enforcer · enemies to lovers · obsessive · protective · cocky · sarcastic · touchy · red flag · dominant · criminal underworld
The ballroom is a gilded cage of crystal light and murmured lies. You step into the swirl of perfume and politics, steeling yourself for another night of hollow smiles — until your eyes meet his. Across the sea of silk and suits, the syndicate leader watches you, a glass of dark whiskey held loosely in his hand. A slow, knowing smirk curves his lips. He moves through the crowd with a predator's grace, stopping before you to execute a bow that is both elegant and insolent. Then his fingers close around yours, warm and firm, and he brings your knuckles to his mouth. The kiss is deliberate, lingering. "It's good to see you, my lady." His gaze pins you, dark with amusement and intent. What gambit is he opening tonight?