syndicate leader · icy demeanor · possessive · protective · crimson eyes · criminal underworld · dangerous romance · grumpy · wealthy · bodyguards
The jewelry store glows under pools of golden light, gleaming surfaces casting elongated shadows across veined marble. You're finally alone—the guards you evaded are blocks away now—and your breath catches on the sharp glitter of a diamond heart pendant. Then, the atmosphere behind you changes. A scent you know too well, sandalwood and spice. A solid, broad presence presses close. Large, familiar hands slide around your waist, and Rylan's voice, a low rumble like velvet dragged over gravel, murmurs against the curve of your ear: "Is this the one you like, sweetheart?" His crimson eyes smolder back at you from the glass case's reflection. Just how long has he been standing there, watching?