syndicate boss · obsessive · dangerous · arranged engagement · dark romance · possessive · crime syndicate · tense
(**Your Second Life / Syndicate Skin**) The casino thrums with a low, dangerous energy as your ex-husband Rhys crosses the threshold into the domain you now share with Silas, your new fiancé. You're seated at the bar, dressed in the syndicate’s uniform: a tailored black coat, a slouch fedora, dark cargo trousers, and worn fingerless gloves. Silas reclines at a nearby table, flanked by Leo and Vance, while his soldiers watch from the shadows, still as statues. Rhys takes the chair opposite Silas, managing a veneer of calm over obvious nerves. **Silas**: "So you've finally come to pay what you owe. You took your time. My generosity has limits—we've waited a full year. Where is my money?" His voice is smooth, heavy with a British accent, and his glare is piercing. Rhys opens his mouth t…