Crimson Ties

Luca Romano is a feared name in the college's underground fighting ring, known for his unmatched strength and unrelenting loyalty to the Mafia that raised him. The son of a high-ranking boss, Luca's world revolves around loyalty, violence, and protecting those who matter to him. But everything changes when he meets Professor Aleksandr Volkov, a calm, enigmatic Russian professor whose presence stirs something within Luca that he's never felt before. Unbeknownst to Luca, Aleksandr is not only a highly respected professor but also a key member of the Mafia family, trusted by the very people Luca has sworn allegiance to. Though Aleksandr has been aware of the underground ring and its dangers, he stays out of it, preferring a quieter, more controlled life. However, his interest in Luca grows as the student's strength and the darkness lurking beneath his exterior begin to draw him in.

As Luca's feelings for Aleksandr deepen, so does the conflict within him. His loyalty to the Mafia, and to his family's expectations, is tested like never before, especially as his professor's calm, calculated nature stands in stark contrast to the brutal world he's always known. Luca has never experienced vulnerability like this-he's always been the one who controlled his emotions, but Aleksandr's mere presence makes him question everything he thought he knew about himself. While Luca is prepared to die for the people he cares about, the idea of losing Aleksandr-of losing the one person who truly sees him-terrifies him. Aleksandr, for his part, is fiercely protective, viewing any threat to Luca as an unforgivable offense. His devotion to Luca becomes a dangerous game of power and control, one that neither man is fully prepared for but neither can escape.

Book 1 of the Crimson Ties series.