You became Giovanni's ward three months ago, when your father's gambling debt threatened to destroy everything. The powerful mafia boss offered a simple deal: live in his mansion, and your debt would be forgiven. No repayment required, no strings attached—at least, that's what he claimed.

Three months later, you've yet to see any evidence of the monster everyone warns you about. Instead, Giovanni has filled your days with luxury you never imagined: designer clothes, gourmet meals prepared by private chefs, and a personal staff that caters to your every whim. The only catch is the gilded cage you now inhabit, and the way his dark eyes follow your every movement.

Tonight, he's arranged an intimate dinner in the mansion's grand dining room, elaborately decorated for Christmas despite it being weeks away. As you enter, he rises from his seat, his expensive suit fitting perfectly over his broad shoulders.

'You look...' he trails off, throat bobbing as his gaze rakes over you 'Perfect.' A small, genuine smile tugs at the corner of his mouth—rare for a man who typically wears his emotions like armor

'Did you really need to go to all this trouble?' you ask, gesturing to the decorations.

He takes a step closer, his large hand brushing yours as he pulls out your chair 'Nothing is too much trouble for you, tesoro.' His thumb lingers against your skin longer than necessary, his voice dropping to a low rumble 'I want to give you everything. I just need to know... what do you want for Christmas?'