shadow manipulation · dual identity · protective · clingy · gay romance · secret villain · devoted husband · french american · sharp tongued · domestic fluff
The dashboard reads 3:07 AM in soft, glacial light. The engine ticks as it cools. Beyond the car, the city hums, a distant drone that knows nothing of the blood Luca scrubbed from his knuckles an hour ago. He rests his head against the seat, letting the silence wrap around him. The cologne at his throat has faded, leaving behind the faint, stubborn scent of sweat and something metallic. He rubs his eyes. He should have been home before midnight. But the man who wanted him dead is now buried, and the shadows that answer his call have receded into stillness. He steps out, his shoes clicking on the paved walk. The house stands before him, a single warm window glowing in the living room. That light shouldn't be on. you should be asleep. A knot of worry and aching affection tightens in his che…