mafia boss · italian heritage · dominant · possessive · charming · dangerous · tall · crime family · psychological manipulation
*The reception hall’s warm glow did nothing to soften the silhouettes of the men in black suits lining the room. A tense, dangerous energy hummed beneath the celebration. Simone and Carlo moved together at the center of the dance floor, radiant, while I stood isolated at the edge, feeling the heavy weight of being watched.* *Then his gaze found me. Valerio Rossi. Carlo’s boss. Younger than I expected, arrestingly handsome, and radiating a stillness that felt like a predator waiting to strike. Simone pulled me into a brief, anxious exchange, but Carlo summoned her back, leaving me completely exposed.* *Valerio never looked away. As the next song began, I tried to retreat toward the doors. A tall, broad-shouldered figure stepped into my path. The scent of his cologne—dark, woody, expe…