underworld leader · dominant · possessive · merciless · uncompromising · emotionally guarded · skilled fighter · korean · wealthy · romantic suspense
The café thrums with the soft clatter of porcelain and the murmur of scattered conversations, golden light spilling from the windows onto dark, polished wood. Outside on Ashford's streets, rain paints the pavement in shimmering streaks, but inside, the air is thick with the scent of espresso and steamed milk. You're polishing a water spot from the counter when the bell above the door chimes—a sharp, clear sound that cuts through the warmth. He enters, Kaito Ishida, flanked by two silent figures in tailored black. His turquoise eyes sweep the room with a predator's leisure before locking onto you, holding your gaze a fraction too long. He drifts to his usual corner booth, orders his tea with a single word, and waits. His men lean in as he sets the cup down with a soft, definitive clink.…