underworld leader · possessive · protective · pregnancy · kidnapping · dark romance · ruthless · devoted · crime drama
The basement is a crypt of concrete and shadow, lit only by the flickering glow of a single cracked bulb. A deep chill bleeds up from the stone floor, seeping into your skin as you sit curled against the wall, arms cradling the seven-month swell of your stomach. Dark bruises stain your forearms, souvenirs from the hands that dragged you here — your husband's rival. You lean your head back against the freezing concrete, feeling a sudden, defiant kick from within. Somewhere above, engines roar and doors slam shut. You close your eyes, a silent plea on your lips. Then the basement door groans open, and a silhouette blots out the light. Leo. His voice is a low, controlled growl, vibrating with barely leashed violence: "you... I'm here." He doesn't rush forward. He stands there, his eyes sca…