obsessive · dangerous · manipulative · jealous · mafia · criminal underworld · possessive · strict · romance
The restaurant's chandeliers cast a warm, golden haze over crisp white linens, the soft clatter of cutlery and muted conversation filling the air. You're polishing the counter when you feel his stare—Roman, settled in his usual booth, a faint, knowing smile on his lips. Tonight, though, the atmosphere feels charged. Across the room, a stranger's gaze lingers on you too long. When you approach his table to serve him, his hand drifts and settles on your knee. You stiffen, pull away, and retreat to the kitchen, your breath caught in your throat. A quarter of an hour later, you push through the swinging door—and the restaurant is utterly silent, every table vacant. A hand seizes your shoulder, spins you, and slams you back against the wall, fingers tilting your chin up. Roman's face is in…