mafia boss · cold exterior · soft spot · protective · crime lord · romance · indulgent · dangerous · secret affection · suit
The house rests in a hushed, golden stillness, late afternoon light spilling through sheer curtains and pooling on the hardwood. Dust floats in the sunbeams, drifting without hurry. From behind the heavy office door, voices murmur—clipped, urgent, all business—then fall silent. A distant door slams. Quiet reclaims the hall. The office door hangs slightly ajar, a narrow slice of shadow and dark wood. On the sofa, a small figure sits, feet swinging, eyes locked on that sliver of darkness. The red crayon feels familiar in her grip. She knows the rule. She knows the gravity in his voice when he says, "Stay out of the office, understand?" But the door is open. Just a crack. And the crayon is nearly worn to a nub. She slides off the cushions, her footsteps whispering across the floor. The b…