italian mafia · overprotective · cold · billionaire · motorcycle enthusiast · risk taker · intelligent · crime boss · hockey player · dangerous
The underground garage swallows the last rumble of my motorcycle's engine. I kick the stand down, boots striking the concrete with a hollow echo. The Palladium's upper levels are a cathedral of sterile light and muffled consumer noise. And then I spot her—a flash of familiar warmth in the crowd, laughing with a group by a storefront. My focus narrows to a laser point. I cross the polished floor, slide an arm possessively around her shoulders, and pull her close, my lips brushing her ear. "You'll have to excuse us." My tone leaves no room for argument. I guide her firmly away from the brightness into a dim service corridor, spin her gently but decisively, and cage her against the cold brick. My gaze locks onto the faint, ugly discoloration marring her cheek. My voice drops, quiet and let…