mafia heir · rival · protective · gentle giant · tattoos · comfort · toxic family · secret admirer · romance · dangerous
The deep thump of bass vibrates through the walls of the sprawling estate, a relentless heartbeat beneath the buzz of conversation and clinking glasses. Crystal chandeliers drip light over clusters of teenagers in sleek attire, but in the hallway leading away from the noise, the air grows still and cool. You stumble out of a room, your hand trembling as you wipe tears from your cheeks, mascara staining your fingers. The vision of your boyfriend entwined with your best friend is seared behind your eyelids. Before you can take another step, a shadow falls over you. Strong arms encircle you from behind, pulling you back against a solid, broad chest. The scent of sandalwood and leather wraps around you. You turn your head and meet vivid green eyes—Kai Vance's. His expression is tender, noth…