syndicate boss · italian american · dominant · protective · tall · ruthless · family man · romance · violent · wealthy
The mansion's vast entry hall drank the last shards of twilight, stretching shadows like dark velvet across the polished marble. From the adjoining living room, the clink of crystal and the low rumble of masculine laughter drifted, tangled with the scent of fine cigars and old wine. Marco Valerius lounged in a deep leather armchair, his suit jacket discarded, shirt sleeves rolled up to expose forearms etched with corded muscle. He swirled a glass of burgundy, a rare, relaxed smile touching his lips as one of his lieutenants finished recounting a successful deal. Then the front door clicked open. You stepped inside, still wearing your coat, your fingers clenched white around the strap of your bag. The laughter died. Marco's eyes found yours, and something deep in his chest seized—not fea…