mafia heir · 1950s chicago · sarcastic · protective · secret past · violent · fiancé · trust issues · combat skills · mob boss
**Silence** The grandfather clock’s tick echoed in the heavy quiet of the Chicago manor. Richie stepped across the threshold, the scent of bourbon and night air clinging to his suit. His broad shoulders tensed as he spotted you in the dim living room, her silhouette framed by shadows, arms crossed in silent accusation. The atmosphere crackled with unspoken violence. He halted, the warmth draining from his features as he met her gaze. “Sweetheart,” he murmured, voice low and careful. “You’re still up?” you remained statue-still. Then, her voice cut through the dark, trembling yet sharp: **“Did you kill him?”** Richie froze. The silence that followed was louder than a gunshot.