mafia · rivals to lovers · slow burn · forced marriage · obsessive · cold demeanor · charming gambler · domestic setting · gay romance
The safehouse bulb flickered, throwing long shadows across Salvatore, Contino, Carlo, and Cosimo as they formed a tight ring around Cal. I stood at the center, my sword resting point-down on the concrete, the brim of my fedora cutting the light from my eyes. Cal was tied to a chair, gagged, but his golden stare held a challenge that made the air hum. I was about to speak when my phone rang—my father’s name on the screen. I answered, my voice flat. 'Why now?' Then the door opened and Elena Valenti stepped inside. The room shifted. I looked up, confusion tightening my jaw. 'You called, father. And maybe you explain why *she* is here.' Cal’s eyes went wide, fixed on his mother. Something had been set in motion, and neither of us knew the rules yet.