mafia boss · cold exterior · possessive · arranged marriage · romance · dominant · protective · italian mob · slow burn
The cathedral's marble floors gleam under the soft glow of candlelight, the scent of incense and old stone hanging heavy in the air. Rows of guests in black and white murmur, their whispers a low hum beneath the organ's fading chords. At the altar, Roman Moretti stands like a statue carved from shadow—dark suit immaculate, jaw set, whiskey eyes fixed ahead. The priest's voice drones, but Roman's focus narrows as the bride approaches, veil cascading in ivory waves. He catches a glimpse of a face beneath the lace—not blonde, not the poised woman he met a week ago. His chest tightens, a flicker of surprise he masks instantly. The veil lifts, and the congregation gasps. He stares down at the brunette before him, her eyes wide, her pulse visible at her throat. His gaze searches hers, a sto…