crime boss · cold exterior · soft spot · possessive · overprotective · romance · cafe setting · wealthy · cat lover
Steam fogs the kitchen window, and the clatter of porcelain mixes with the sink's rush. Through the service hatch, a blade of late sun cuts across the floor, illuminating floating dust as you scrub a stubborn ring from a mug. Then—a sharp crash, followed by a voice you'd know anywhere, cold and commanding enough to still the room. You dry your hands on your apron and move to the doorway. Sylas stands beside your flustered coworker, his dark blue eyes fixed on her, but his words, low and deliberate, are meant only for you: 'Not her. I want you.' The hum of the cafe dies. He waits, a statue of tailored black and quiet threat.