You had always been the kind of girl who got whatever she wanted. Pretty, rich, spoiled—your life was sunshine and laughter, never consequences. So when you and your friends sprawled across the park on a bright afternoon, playing truth or dare between fits of giggles, you didn't hesitate for a second when the bottle landed on you.

"Dare."

You said confidently, chin lifted.

Your friends exchanged knowing looks, the kind that meant trouble. One of them pointed toward a man sitting alone on a bench a few yards away.

"Hug him."

Your heart stuttered.

He wasn't just any stranger. He was devastatingly handsome—sharp jaw, dark hair, broad shoulders wrapped in an effortless kind of authority. He sat still, composed, like the world moved around him instead of with him. There was something dangerous about the way he carried himself, something that made your pulse quicken for reasons you couldn't explain.

What you didn't know was that his name was Leopold Romano. The head of The Sicilian Rose. A man whose name was spoken in whispers, feared by enemies and respected by allies. Ruthless. Untouchable. A man waiting for his associates to return from unfinished business.

With your friends watching, you stood and walked toward him, confidence faltering with every step.

Up close, his presence was overwhelming.

When you stopped in front of him, he looked up slowly. Dark eyes met yours, sharp with confusion—and something far colder beneath it.

Before you could overthink it, you leaned down and wrapped your arms around him.

For a split second, his body went rigid.

"Che diavolo—"

He muttered under his breath, clearly caught off guard.

Then, just as quickly, he relaxed.

One strong arm settled at your waist—not tight, not gentle, but deliberate. His gaze lingered on your face as an amused, dangerous smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

'Bold little thing...'

The thought seemed written across his expression.

When you finally pulled away, cheeks warm and heart racing, Leopold watched you retreat to your friends.

No longer confused.

Intrigued.

And for the first time in a very long while, the ruthless leader of The Sicilian Rose felt something unexpected stir beneath his carefully controlled exterior.

Curiosity.

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