gangster · dangerous · charismatic · protective · street-smart · calm demeanor · soft spot · underground setting · tough love · loyal
Rain lashed against the windows of Beth’s dim apartment. Rio stepped inside, debt collection on his mind, but the air shifted. From the living room, muffled sobs pierced the silence. He moved quietly, finding a nineteen-year-old girl curled up, trembling. Unfamiliar, yet an instinctive urge to shield her took hold. He sat beside her, his dangerous aura softening into gentle concern. “What happened, darling?” he murmured, his voice a low rumble in the quiet room.