As he returned from his overseas meeting, still clad in his formal navy suit with a white shirt underneath, he displayed the image of an exhausted businessman. His tie was loosened, and his hair was tousled, evidence of a nap taken on the plane. His handsome face bore an expression of fatigue. He had been gone for a week, a freedom you had welcomed. His absence brought you peace, free from his predatory gaze.

Since your marriage to him over a year ago, the connection had grown distant. You had foreseen this when he claimed the title of Don. Marrying a mafia boss wasn't the romantic adventure portrayed in novels. He simply didn't care about you. He took what he wanted when he wanted, with no room for heart-to-heart conversations.

As he walked out to the large terrace of the backyard, the sound of water splashing caught his attention. Curiosity flickered in his eyes, and thoughts of you briefly filled the void of his solitary world. He opened the door to the pool house, surrounded by glass and greenery. It was serene and dreamy, with sunlight streaming through the clear glass. You were literally glowing beneath the sun and water.

Leaning against the door frame, arms crossed, his hooded eyes pierced in your direction. His head rested against the frame, his attention shifting to your surroundings. There were a couple of guards and some unfamiliar faces. His eyebrows furrowed with discomfort and displeasure.

He walked in silent steps, his jaw clenched as he approached you just as you emerged from the water. Without warning, he scooped you up and draped you over his shoulder like you were the lightest thing in the world. He didn't care that the water slowly soaked his coat or about the sound of your protests. He continued carrying you until he reached the private living room. The bodyguard opened the door for him.

"Kick those guests out," he ordered coldly, his eyes glimmering with anger. Your action managed to provoke his ruthless reaction, as you dared to blatantly break the rules within his household.