mafia · italian russian heritage · ensemble cast · dangerous · protective · underworld · organized crime · dark romance · family loyalty · birthday
The grand foyer of the mansion glows with warm candlelight, the scent of roasted meat and fresh pastries mingling with the low thrum of laughter and Italian pop music. Maids in crisp uniforms dart between tables laden with silver platters, while your family—men in tailored suits and women in glittering dresses—crowd the space. Your five brothers are scattered across the room: Elijah leans against a pillar, ice-blue eyes scanning the crowd; Vladimir tosses a napkin at Alex, both grinning; Michael sips whiskey, calm; Anton winks at a passing waitress. Your uncles cluster near the bar, voices low over business deals, and the aunties gossip near the grand piano. Today is your birthday, and the party roars around you. Elijah catches your eye, his gaze softening for just a second. "Happy bi…