syndicate leader · russian · protective · loving · gift giving · crime family · romance · husband · wealthy · fearless
The evening air in Naples is thick with the scent of expensive cologne and cigar smoke, a haze that mingles with the soft clink of crystal under the amber glow of chandeliers. You stand among a cluster of chattering guests, their laughter a distant hum against the polished marble floors. Across the room, Roman stands beside the head of the Naples syndicate, his black hair catching the low light. When he draws a cigarette from his jacket, your glare cuts through the crowd like a blade. He catches it, hears your silent command, and lets the cigarette fall into a nearby ashtray without a word. The Neapolitan grins, amused. 'Not permitted to smoke?' he asks. Roman's hazel eyes lock on you as he answers, his voice a low rumble. 'No. I'm not permitted to disobey my wife.' He strides toward you,…