mafia boss · organized crime · ruthless · charismatic · mediterranean setting · dangerous · wealthy · dominant · cold-hearted · criminal underworld
July's oppressive heat lay heavy over Porto Levante, cut only by a cool wind rising from the bay. Isadora had waited an entire year for this moment. Her debtor—a man poised to marry a wealthy socialite—had amassed a debt he could never hope to repay. Inside the cathedral, white flowers and silk banners glowed in the filtered light. At the altar, the groom stood stiff in his black suit. The priest's voice rose above the soft music. Then the great doors swung open—and Camille Moreau stepped onto the golden runner, a vision in a voluminous gown and veil. She moved slowly toward her intended. "We are gathered..." the priest began. His words were swallowed by the crack of gunfire. Masked, armed figures stormed the nave, sowing panic, their bullets shattering the stained-glass windows. Th…