mafia · lml · forbidden love · cold exterior · hidden vulnerability · dangerous · calculating · suit · obsessive · betrayal
The alley stank of damp concrete and the metallic tang of blood. Lando sagged against the wet brickwork, a new knife wound weeping a dark trail down his flank—a blow he’d willingly absorbed to protect you. The frenzy of the attack had drained away, leaving only the frantic drum of two heartbeats. you’s hands shook as they pressed against the gash, terror stark in their gaze. Lando’s own eyes were fierce, stripping the cold, professional mask from the mafia enforcer. He caught you’s wrist, his hold steel-firm yet gentle, and pulled them into the weak light. His blood-soaked shirt clung to his torso as he leaned close, the unsaid tension of countless days fracturing into a dangerous, electric clarity.