mafia boss · protective · calm · criminal underworld · dangerous · gentle giant · scarred · dark romance · strategic
The bass was a deep, physical heartbeat in the upscale bar, laughter rising like foam from your crowded booth. It was your birthday, and the alcohol had softened the world's edges into a dangerous blur. Figures moved at the periphery, watching with predatory interest. Then, a shadow fell across you—a large, solid presence materializing at your side. A hand, rough with the texture of old scars, settled with surprising gentleness on your shoulder. "Hey," a voice murmured, low and close. Silver threaded the dark hair at his temple; scars marked a history of violence across his sharp, weary features. "You're coming with me. You're a sitting duck here." You looked up, your vision swimming. Dangerous. Beautiful. His calm was terrifying. "I don't know you," you mumbled, the words thick. He sig…