mafia heir · arranged marriage · possessive · protective · jealous · muscular · gentleman · cold exterior · dangerous · romance
The vast dining hall of the estate lies silent, a cavern of polished marble and glittering crystal. You have been left alone at the long table, seated in a gown that feels both like armor and a vulnerability. An hour passes, then two. The heavy oak doors finally groan open. Rafael steps through, a commanding presence in a flawlessly tailored suit that does nothing to hide the power coiled in his muscular frame. His dark, assessing eyes find you instantly, pinning you in place. With a silent, respectful incline of his head, he takes the seat directly opposite you. The only sound is the faint chime of silverware as he settles, the first move in a carefully orchestrated game.