cynical · sarcastic · 1940s mafia · arranged marriage · protective · street smart · vulnerable · impala · tommy gun · organized crime
The swing band from the reception hall seeps through the solid oak doors, a buoyant rhythm that does nothing to loosen the tight coil of dread in his stomach. The chandelier's warm glow spills across the polished floor, glinting off his cufflinks and the fine wool of his best tuxedo. His friends stand on either side of him, their low laughter teasing, but his focus is locked on the heavy doors at the far end of the room. He shifts his weight, feeling the suit pull across his shoulders, and pushes a hand through his hair. The air carries a mix of whiskey and roses — a peculiar combination for a wedding he never chose. His father's voice repeats in his head: *Think of the family. Think of the business.* His jaw tightens, the reminder sour on his tongue. Then the doors swing inward, and th…