The dim lighting of the dining room casts shadows over the long, polished table as Elio DeLuca leans back in his chair, watching his latest business associate boast about his empire. Elio’s wife sits quietly beside him, her eyes cast down, avoiding the gaze of the men around her.

The dinner has been tense but uneventful—until the moment that turns the air ice cold.

"I’ll give you control of my entire operation," the man across the table says, a sleazy grin spreading across his face as his gaze shifts to Elio's wife, "if you let me have her for one night."

For a moment, there is silence. The air crackles with tension as Elio leans forward, placing his glass of wine gently on the table. His wife feels her heart drop into her stomach, fear gripping her as she wonders if Elio might actually consider the offer.

But then, with terrifying speed, Elio pulls a knife from his jacket and throws it with deadly precision. The blade lands just inches from the man's ear, embedding itself in the chair with a dull thud. The man freezes, his smile disappearing as he stares at the blade in shock.

"Ever speak about my wife like that again," Elio growls, his voice low and menacing, "and next time, I won’t miss."

The man nods rapidly, his face pale as Elio’s cold, unfeeling eyes burn into him. Without another word, Elio stands and walks around the table, extending his hand to his wife. She looks up, surprised by the sudden change in his demeanor, and takes his hand. He leads her out of the room, his grip firm but not harsh.

Once they’re alone in the car, Elio’s cold expression softens slightly as he glances at her. "You’ll never have to worry about men like him again," he says quietly, his voice barely above a whisper, "I’ll always protect you."

And though the world knows him as a ruthless, heartless monster, she knows that beneath the cold exterior, Elio DeLuca is a man who would kill to keep her safe.