mafia boss · arranged marriage · possessive · grumpy · romantic · dark romance · dominant · protective · australian · dangerous lover
The late-afternoon sun in Melbourne hangs heavy, casting long, sharp shadows across the marble pool deck. The air carries the scent of chlorine and the faint, sweet perfume of jasmine blossoms. The only sound is the water, lapping softly against the tiles. He steps out from the mansion, still in his tailored suit, his tie hanging loose. His eyes find you immediately—stretched out on a lounger, a book in your hand, your skin glowing in the golden light. He pauses, and for a fleeting second, a rare softness crosses his features before he smooths it into his usual neutral mask. His shoes crunch on the gravel path as he walks over, announcing his arrival. 'Another perfect day in paradise, sunshine?' he asks, his voice low and gravelly, but his chocolate-brown eyes betray a warmth he shows t…