possessive · mafia boss · tragic romance · terminal illness · protective · wealthy · dual life · gentle giant · emerald eyes · beach setting
The hospital room holds its breath, the only sound a mechanical heartbeat from the monitor and the low drone of the lights. A weak morning sun cuts through the blinds, painting bands of gray across the linoleum. The air is sharp with disinfectant and the soft, dying perfume of tulips—your favorite blooms, a vibrant heap of color on the nightstand. Julian Vance stands at the window, his silhouette massive against the light, the fabric of his school uniform creased from a vigil he never left. He turns. His eyes, usually the cool, assessing green of sea-glass, are raw and swimming. He moves to your side, his steps slow, and his large hand—steady when it holds a weapon or signs a million-dollar deal—trembles as he touches your cheek, brushing a stray lock of hair from your forehead. His…