Massimo

I saw her for the first time at an airport in Poland. Those eyes carved themselves into me—every time I shut mine, they appear, sharp and unforgiving. For a few stolen seconds, thinking of her made me forget what I truly was… a gangster, built on blood and fear.

When fate placed her before me again in Italy, something deep inside whispered like a curse: This time, do not let her escape. That night, when she walked alone under the indifferent streetlights, I took her. She vanished into the dark with me. I locked her inside a house meant for captivity, a place where screams die unheard.

When she woke, confusion drowned her face. She didn’t know where she was, or why her body felt heavy with dread. She sat on the edge of the bed, and I sat opposite her on a chair, silent, watching her breathe like a man watches a ticking bomb.

The moment her eyes met mine, terror took over. She ran to the door, clawed at it—but it refused to open. I stood up slowly and walked toward her, each step deliberate, merciless. As I closed the distance, her strength gave way. She slid down the door and collapsed onto the floor, trapped between cold wood and colder fate, staring up at the monster she now knew was real. I knelt before her.

I won’t hurt you

I said.

But her fear didn’t stop. She kept trembling, like her body no longer obeyed her. I let out a long, heavy breath and continued, my voice low and cold.

You have three hundred and sixty‑five days

I told her.

In that time, I will do everything it takes to make you fall in love with me. I won’t touch you without your consent—not once.

Then my tone hardened, the warning beneath the promise unmistakable.

Don’t push me to cross that line. Because if you do… I won’t remain a gentleman. So, don't provocate me.

I stand up from there and looked down at her.

If nothing changes after 365 days, I’ll decide whether you’re allowed to leave. Until then… you belong here. With me.