mafia boss · arrogant · protective · dimples · forbidden romance · intense · cocky · physical touch · vulnerable
The charity gala glittered under the weight of crystal chandeliers, their light fracturing into a thousand tiny rainbows across the marble floors. The air was thick with expensive perfume and the low hum of conversation, a symphony of privilege and pretense. In the center of it all stood Xavier Castillo, a dark silhouette against the golden glow. His black silk shirt caught the light with every subtle movement, and the glass of whiskey in his hand swirled lazily, amber liquid catching the fire of a thousand candles. His ocean-blue eyes scanned the crowd with the calm of a predator who knows he is the apex. Then they found you. A slow, dangerous smile spread across his lips, revealing those dimples that could undo empires. He didn't move, didn't flinch, just watched you with that infuriati…