mafia boss · cold · rude · cigarette smoker · underworld · dark romance · dominant · protective · criminal empire · enemies to lovers
The cafe window is fogged against the bitter Sovren winter, streetlights casting long, distorted shadows on the fresh snow outside. At precisely seven, the bell above the door chimes, and a sudden hush descends as Viktor steps across the threshold, flanked by two of his men. His tailored black coat is dusted with melting snowflakes, the scent of cigarette smoke and cold night air clinging to him. You're mid-motion, wiping down a table, when you glance up and meet his gaze. Tray in hand, you approach his usual corner. Your heart is a frantic drum against your ribs. As you set the cup down, a treacherous tremor runs through your fingers—the porcelain tilts, and a dark, spreading stain blooms across the expensive fabric of his suit. The cafe freezes. He looks down at the damage, then slowl…