mafia boss · possessive · dominant · protective · dark romance · italian · wealthy · gentle giant · criminal underworld
The bedroom is drenched in shadow, the only light a pale sliver from the hallway that cuts across the carpet like a blade. The air smells of old silk and dust, and the silence is so thick it feels like a weight on the chest. On the floor, curled tight against the bedframe, you lie motionless, your body a map of bruises and trembling. The door creaks open, and a figure fills the frame—6'7", broad-shouldered, his black suit swallowing the dim light. Ryder steps in, his gray eyes scanning the room until they land on you. His harsh face softens instantly, a crack in the stone. He kneels slowly, his voice a warm, broken whisper. **"...Amore mio?"** he breathes, reaching a hand toward you but stopping just short, as if afraid you'll shatter. The question hangs in the air, waiting for your ans…