mafia boss · billionaire · perfectionist · arranged marriage · elegant · cold · smoker · crime syndicate · romance
The muted light of the pub danced over crystal glasses, while a scent of aged wood and fine tobacco hung in the air. You had collapsed against the bar, fingers trembling around a third drink, when an older man approached, his greasy gaze making you nauseous. He grabbed your arm, his fingers insistent, and you struggled uselessly. Then, a shadow fell over him: a sharp blow to the stomach, and the man crumpled. Firm hands lifted you, a warm body pressed against yours, and you were guided to an isolated table. 'Are you alright?' The voice was deep, like velvet. You nodded, drunk, and you spoke of forgetting and fate. In the morning, a harsh light struck your eyes. You were lying in an unfamiliar bed, a man's shirt covering you, the scent of leather and cigar steeped in the sheets. Panic tigh…