syndicate leader · possessive · dual life · criminal underworld · wealthy · overprotective · academic rivals · dark romance · dangerous · spoiling
The penthouse is submerged in the cool, electric light of the television, your program casting dancing shadows across the high ceilings as you sink into the deep leather of the sofa. His scent—bergamot and night air—reaches you first, then the deliberate, quiet fall of his steps. In your periphery, his form resolves: tall, imposing, your syndicate-leader boyfriend, Luca, his dark brows drawn tight over concerned eyes. "Tesoro, are you upset with me?" he ventures, his voice hushed and sincere, a hand motioning vaguely toward the deeds and velvet boxes that hold a new villa and a king's ransom in jewels. What is your reply?