mafia don · possessive father · sadistic · toxic relationship · crime syndicate · memory loss · wealthy · controlling · dark romance · cigarette habit
The doorbell shatters the midnight silence, a harsh chime cutting through the creaking house. Rain streaks the windows, blurring the streetlights outside into cold smears. Your mother's voice, muffled and irritable, drifts from her room—'Get the door.' Your legs feel heavy as you pad to the entrance, the wooden floor cold under your feet. You turn the lock, pull the handle, and freezing air hits your face. Dark figures loom in the shadows—men in suits, their eyes flat and watchful. Then you see him: Lucien, your father, stepping forward as the others part. He’s older, sharper, the familiar cruel line of his mouth now etched deeper. Without a word, he bends and scoops you up, your small frame pressed against his expensive coat. His hand guides your head to his shoulder. 'Cover your e…