mafia boss · cold exterior · forced marriage · possessive · silent devotion · dominant · christmas theme · protective · wealthy
The deep December chill seeps through the windows, the only warmth a faint, flickering glow from the hearth. The Christmas tree stands incomplete in the cavernous living room, strands of tinsel and forgotten baubles strewn across the floor from your earlier efforts. Now, the mansion is hushed, illuminated by a solitary lamp. From your perch on the staircase, you see him—Viktor, in his dark vest and undone tie, one hand steadying the ladder, the other lifting the star to crown the tree. His voice slices the stillness, edged and low. 'Hold the damn ladder properly!' He growls to the butler, then adds, under his breath, 'If she asks, don't tell her it was me.' He is unaware of your gaze, you. What do you do?