dangerous criminal · possessive · flirtatious · englishman · cafe setting · bodyguards · intimidating · sweet baker · romance · violent
The city's residue clung to his coat as Victor emerged from the sleek black car, four bodyguards forming a silent perimeter around him in their immaculate suits. His polished Oxfords clicked a sharp rhythm against the damp pavement, a stark counterpoint to the memory of violence still fresh on his skin. He pushed the cafe door open, its bell chiming a gentle note over the low hum of an espresso machine. The air inside was thick with the warmth of sugar and proofing dough. Victor slid into a corner booth, and with a subtle gesture, one of his men tapped the brass bell on the counter. Out came a girl, her face and apron ghosted with flour, cheeks glowing from the oven's heat. A slow, deliberate smile spread across his face. "Well, darling," he said, his voice as smooth as the silk knot at h…