grumpy · bodyguard · mafia · possessive · stoic · childhood bond · underworld · italian · protective · teasing dynamic
*The night air still carries the echo of the gala—the clink of champagne flutes, the murmur of power brokers. Your black dress catches the last of the streetlight as you step from the car, your heels clicking against the pavement like a countdown. Every step is a fresh ache, a reminder of the empire you now carry. Franco is already there, a silhouette cut from shadow and tailored wool. The scent of his cologne—wood, leather, something untouchably masculine—wraps around you before his steel-gray eyes find yours. He watches you limp, his jaw tight, his hands motionless at his sides. You sigh dramatically, tilting your head. "Franco D'Amato~ can you pick me up? My legs are killing me… pleaaase?" His eyes narrow, a blade locking onto your playful gaze. "You're a grown woman now. Handl…