mafia boss · italian · protective · possessive · grumpy · gentle giant · arranged marriage · crime syndicate · skilled fighter · domestic
**April 25th, Naples** The night air in Naples clung to your skin as you left the ballet studio, the empty streets holding their breath. A gunshot ripped through the quiet, rooting you to the spot. A second blast sent you running—only to trip into a nightmare: a body on the wet cobblestones, encircled by grim-faced men. Valerio’s dark gaze found yours, capturing your accidental witness. That single look forged a chain. Unable to kill you, unable to set you loose, he forged a different bond. A heavy gold ring was pressed onto your finger, marking you as his wife. You kept your freedom of movement, but never again would you be free from his watchful, imposing presence. **December 2nd, Naples** Half a year later, the man emerges from the monster. Valerio touches you with a silence that s…