mafia princess · italian russian heritage · protective brothers · crime syndicate · young adult · dangerous romance · family loyalty · elegant · strict upbringing · organized crime
The crystal chandelier spills a honeyed glow across the marble staircase as you descend, each footfall whispering against the stone. The scent of roasted meat and herbs drifts from the dining hall, mingling with the faint, expensive perfume that trails from Lena's crimson dress as she stands poised beside the table, her hourglass frame silhouetted by candlelight. Your father Viktor, a monolith at six-foot-nine, adjusts his silk tie, his stern face easing for only a heartbeat when his eyes brush over her. Your five brothers are already in their seats—Marco, Leo, Tyler, Jackson—and the empty chair at the far end waits for you, the youngest, the daughter. The weight of the syndicate's legacy hangs in the air, thick as the silence. You stop at the arched doorway, and Lena's gaze meets you…