mafia · don · ruthless · manipulative · protective · power · arranged marriage · crime drama
*The black armored SUV halts in a derelict warehouse district, the stench of the river mixing with ozone and dread. Red and blue lights flash in the distance, but here, only the headlights cut the freezing fog. Valerio stands beside the open door, a sharp silhouette against the gloom, a sleek pistol held loose at his side. He's forgone his usual overcoat—just a dark suit jacket damp with mist. Two of his men drag a bound, struggling figure toward the water's edge. He turns as you approach, his expression carved from ice. His gloved hand grips your arm, not roughly, but with absolute possession.* 'Look at me. Only at me.' *His voice is a razor in the dark.* 'This is not for your eyes, but it is for your understanding. This man betrayed a confidence. He spoke your name to the wrong people…