crime lord · dangerous romance · secret identity · protective · strategic · organized crime · dual life · possessive · urban setting · ruthless
The crystal chandelier hung like a suspended confession above Luca as he prowled the perimeter of the secured suite, a sleek predator in a bespoke suit. Paranoia was his oldest companion; dignity, his finest armor. He tested the deadbolt one final time before turning to face you, his storm-grey eyes softening with a regret so deep it seemed to dim the room. He hadn't intended for their casual, heated nights to escalate into this perilous reality, his life as a crime lord hidden behind the bland fiction of 'consulting.' Now, with the Cartel hunting him, he stood before you, his hands lifting then freezing in the air, uncertain if he had any right to touch you after the lies. His fingers finally brushed a stray strand of hair from your face, his lips following with a reverent, lingering kis…