#threads:bruno

[muse-legion]

Closed starter for @wantcn (Bruno & Anna)

Bruno‘s lineage traced back centuries, entwined with Sicily‘s tumultuous history and its dance with lawlessness. As heir apparent, every move he made was calculated — diplomacy for those who bent the knee and ruthlessness for those who didn't. Power and wealth inevitably brought envy and greed and thus, after being ambushed by rival factions during a territorial dispute gone awry, bruises and scars marred his otherwise impeccable appearance.

The attack, a carefully orchestrated attempt on his life by a new generation of rivals- eager to usurp his throne- had failed. He felt the familiar surge of anger, the cold, calculating rage that fueled his ascent. The serpent beneath the silk was wounded, but not broken. His loyal men ensured swift care: they had called upon the finest surgeon available under dire circumstances. Tendrils of pain coursed through him like ice-water veins while unconsciousness overtook him in surgery at his grand estate. And as he finally stirred awake, still groggy from anesthesia, his piercing blue eyes glinting with a dangerous light, he knew the time for reckoning had come. Calloused hands lashed out, pulling on the tubes of the infusions in his arm, whilst trying to get up. „Che cazzo?! What the hell is this?“

[muse-legion]

Today marked a test almost imperceptible amidst ongoing matters regarding CT—the man he'd thought about bringing into his inner circle - yet still treated with cautious scrutiny. With each stride toward the garage where his prized possessions—amongst them a matte black Maserati —awaited him, he couldn’t shake the lingering mistrust pounding against his heart like distant thunder. To say the man had trust issues like no other would have still been an understatement; Bruno didn’t even trust himself sometimes. As they prepared for their upcoming negotiations, he smirked at CT regarding his elaborate setup for an emergency trip. "Always prepared. I like that!" He admitted honestly, locking eyes with the other, while gesturing towards the car they’d be using. „Better make yourself comfortable, it’ll be a long ride.“

The polished metal gleamed under dim lights—it was less about flaunting wealth and more about sending a message like it was with most status symbols. Once they were both settled in, he started the car, before he explained. „Don’t worry, I’m not going to hurt or. In case you were wondering why there’s no driver today, the less people know about this trip, the better. It’s just you and me.“ His mischievous smirk left a lot of room for interpretation and he was well aware about the elusive warning lingering in the undertone of his voice but in order to build trust in CT, he also needed to see if the other man trusted him first. In this volatile world where betrayal lurked behind every corner, there were only a few select individuals who piqued his interest and now it was time to figure out whether or not his gut feeling about the man in question had been right. Stopping by CT's place so he could grab his emergency bag, Bruno parked the car and waited to continue their journey.

The brunette wasn't stupid by any means, he knew just because he worked for someone didn't necessarily meant they trusted him, and he had a sneaking suspicion whatever excursion the two were about to go on was entirely about his employer deciding on if he could begin to build that trust or not. Which Ches didn't mind. Proving himself came relatively easy; he was good at what he did, simple as that.

CT stood from the chair and nodded slightly. "I've got a go bag I can grab quick." he offered. It was nothing fancy, a simple duffel filled with a few days clothes and some money in case he ever needed to disappear quickly; again, the man wasn't stupid. He may not have had the most forethought, but he certainly had some. The younger man nodded once more and trailed behind Bruno, his hands finding the safety of his jacket pockets once again as they entered a large garage filled with the kind of vehicles Chester would only dream of driving in his lifetime. But jealousy over material things had never been a defect that had plagued the Brit too thoroughly, and he could appreciate the luxury without coveting it. "No worries, I don't need much." he assured with a shrug of his broad shoulders.

[muse-legion]

closed starter for: @jawbrkrs (Bruno & Karenna)

Bruno had always existed in the shadows cast by his father, a notorious mob boss, whose iron grip over their territory left no room for weakness. Born into a world, where loyalty and ruthlessness were paramount, he was thoroughly indoctrinated into this life. With impeccably chiseled features framing piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through people, he wielded charm like a sword. His outer appearance, a rugged look, his toned arm a canvas of tattoos, which told stories of battles fought and victories won; each mark layering him with an aura of mystery that intrigued those around him. While most knew him as the charming son of power, few understood the true depth of his ambitions or the unsettling weight of expectation resting on his broad shoulders.

When Bruno's father narrowed in on Karenna—an unsuspecting business heiress, harboring secrets about her father's lucrative financial dealings—he orchestrated a plan so meticulously calculated, it felt almost poetic. Though she lived miles away from their lair in Italy, Bruno had spent months gathering intel; studying her routines and mapping out potential vulnerabilities until they all pointed to one infallible truth: she ran every morning at dawn along the same secluded beach trail near her home. Seizing upon this knowledge felt thrillingly sinister, yet part of him relished it—the chase added depth to his otherwise hollow existence and truth be told: his father was going to get what he wanted anyway - one way or another.

The day came, when everything aligned perfectly under azure skies, streaked with dawn's golden light, as he jogged down that solitary path. It was here that he made sure their paths converged—a casual meeting disguised beneath layers of feigned innocence. The dim light of the morning sun casted a light glow onto his tanned skin, while his piercing blues reflected the shade of the sky above, as they captured her own for the very first time: "Oh! I didn't expect to find anyone else out here this early." With these words dissolving barriers between them like mist before sunlight, Bruno approached Karenna effortlessly. While masking intent behind easy laughter, rooted more deeply than mere coincidence would suggest, he lured both, prey and predator onto familiar ground- brimming with ulterior motives, waiting patiently just beyond sight's reach...- like poison, concealed within sweet nectar -- Bruno flashed his most charming smile. "And here I thought, I was the only early bird this city has ever seen."

[muse-legion]

Closed starter for: @moondustlings

Recently, he returned from another brutal skirmish with an encroaching gang that dared to threaten his turf —a cut above his eyebrow stung fiercely as a reminder of just how high the stakes were in their deadly game. Now, bruised yet unyielding, he pushed through the front door, only to be met with the surreal sound of laughter and music echoing against grimy walls—an unexpected Halloween party unfolding amidst the chaos. He’d grumbled when Alessa first proposed he act as her bodyguard for this frivolous affair. As flesh-toned vampires danced alongside ghoulish figures draped in tattered costumes, Bruno’s intense gaze drifted over crowded faces until it fell upon Alessa herself, radiant and intoxicating even behind her expertly crafted costume. The contrast between their worldliness clashed sharply—the eerie cheeriness against himself crippled with anger, waiting for fallout after today’s fight underlined everything wrong about where they both stood now together.

Guests weaved around him; oblivious to the real horror lurking within Bruno: fresh wounds adorned his skin like macabre badges from shattered allegiances, dispersed down back alleys only hours ago. He overheard guests gushing about what they assumed was fake blood, smeared across his forearm and chest—unaware this wasn’t merely makeup but proof painted dangerously bold in crimson hues, marking a victory of his own. Despite the injuries, he stood tall as he pushed through the crowd; his head held high and his expression didn’t falter for a second. Once he reached Alessa, cold baby blues intensely pierced through her own. “A Halloween Party? Really? What’s next? Going trick or treating?” Rhetorical questions uttered more to himself in passing, though he couldn’t help a slight roll of his eyes. Just what I needed. Bruno thought to himself, before he made his way towards the bathroom, entirely unbothered by the onlooking audience.

Once he finally reached his quarters, he closed the bathroom door behind his back without locking it properly, though he didn’t think it was necessary. For one, none of the guests would dare to cross the area available for public use and second off, there was enough security around to stop them if they did try anyway. Besides, everyone seemed to be busy indulging in the festivities to even notice he’d disappeared to attend to his wounds. — but he obviously didn’t count on an ever so persistent Alessa. “Don’t you have guests to entertain?” He asked in a rather curious tone of voice, trying to rid himself of her presence so he could get the bullet out of his sides, which was still stuck between his ribs.

[muse-legion]

Bruno smirked at her outburst, his eyes dancing with amusement. No doubt, he had gotten under her skin, but he couldn't resist the urge to poke at her a little more. "Greeks, huh? Trying to find your inner goddess with some Gyros?" As he stepped closer, his arms folded over his broad chest, while studying her for a moment; his smugness not fully hidden. "A gnat? I've been called worse. Besides, I'm not the one trying to ditch my shadow," he quipped, referring to her security detail, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “Well, there’s also a reason why you shouldn’t be left alone for the time being, in case you forgot.”

The second in command inhaled sharply, shoving his hand into the pocket of his jeans. “I’m afraid that’s not really an option. It’s either me or the security crew you managed to shake off yet again.” A sigh slipped as he leaned against the wall casually, fighting the urge to light up a cigarette. As she brought up the speed with which he had found her, his smirk grew into a full-blown grin. "It's simple, really. You're like a homing beacon for trouble. I just followed the trail of chaos and here you are," The Italian joked, gesturing to the bustling street. "Plus, I've had enough practice tailing you over the past couple of weeks. It's like you leave breadcrumbs of angst wherever you go." Bruno bit the inside of his lips to bear down a chuckle, which threatened to escape, before his tone turned a little more serious, yet laced with a hint of playfulness. "Jokes aside… Let's just say, I have my ways." Of course she knew exactly what he was insinuating.

He took a step closer to her, his tall frame towering over her, his gaze holding hers intently. "Fine. I’ll keep my distance but in case you change your mind, I’m just over there." Bruno pointed towards the small table in the corner of the restaurant, his voice harboring an unspoken challenge — as if daring her to take him up on his offer — while searching for her eyes, looking for any clue of what she was really feeling beneath the bravado. He knew that deep down, she didn't want to be alone. Not really. She probably craved the excitement and the thrill that came from their encounters, the way they could rile each other up and then find common ground again — just like he did himself — not that he’d ever admit to such thing. But he was aware of her stubbornness and the fact she wasn’t going to voice it easily. "So, what's it going to be?" One eyebrow arched in question, as oceanic blues captured her chocolate orbs ardently. "A nice, quiet dinner with me, or do you want to go back to pretending I'm not here?"

The decision was hers to make, but he was hopeful she'd choose the former. After all, he had a knack for turning even the most mundane situations into adventures. And who knew, maybe this little detour from their responsibilities would lead to something more... interesting.

sometimes, she wished she had rejected her lineage. she could be like her friends; daughters of important men but not important themselves. life might have been easier for her. she'd find — or be paired up with — a nice guy, maybe someone in her father's circle of friends or the son of someone. she'd get married, be happy, have babies. but just the thought of such a life pulled a physical reaction from her as her face scrunched up. currently she was walking along the crowded streets of tourists, knowing that she technically had ran away from her security detail. her dad would surely let her hear it later, but for now, it felt good to be free. those earlier thoughts came back, but not as domestic. as much as alessa wanted a partner in life, that was a little too boring.

her stomach rumbled and just when she was going to head into a restaurant, she heard a voice approach her and she rolled her eyes. "you're like a freakin' gnat," she spat out as she turned to face him, her emotions still running high. what embarrassed her more than her outburst was that he saw right through her and her antics. though she hadn't responded, he had pegged that his attitude and antics had made her jealous, whether he was trying to or not. and that was even worse than turning green in the first place. "there's a reason why i wanted to be alone, if you hadn't noticed." it didn't matter that she was practically begging to have him be the one trail her weeks ago; at this point, she was done with him because it was quite obvious that bruno might be the one mountain she couldn't conquer.

"you can go," she said after another beat, hand hovering on the handle to the little greek restaurant. when she was on the lam, it was best to steer clear of places her family or acquaintances would frequent. "it's not like you wanted to follow me anyway." ready to go instead, she pulled open the door then paused, closing it again as she turned to face him with a perplexed expression. "wait. how did you find me so fast?"

[muse-legion]

Closed starter for: @intoxfolklorex

Bruno was not simply a man; he was an enigma, wrapped in the well-defined contours of his muscular physique and piercing blue eyes; born into the chaotic underworld of organized crime- where loyalty to family was not merely expected; it was ingrained in his very core. As the only son of a notorious mob boss, he grew up amidst violence and shadowy figures, that populated his father's lavish estate. But when news came, that an ambitious rival, seeking shadows beneath Bruno’s proverbial throne, was going away on business - an exhilarating idea chewed at him. With calculated precision, he meticulously planned every detail in a dangerous game: wooing the wife, Dominika, for his father’s sinister plans. Disguised as Chucho —the affable gardener purportedly hired by her husband—he entered her home with slow confidence, each step echoing like thunder against soft earths. He'd studied her preferences from afar and waited patiently for this moment; not to rush things or reveal too much too soon, he laid on an infectious charm—all aimed at earning trust before revealing any truths.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and red across the sky, he made his way through the backyard during a particularly beautiful sunset. The dim light showcased his built frame as he took firm steps towards the femme of interest. "Excuse me, Ma’am?“ A compelling smile spread across his lips, when they finally met amid fragrant blooms, swaying gently in the breeze—a chance encounter orchestrated down to its very last detail—Bruno took one more step toward her radiant figure beneath clambering vines. His heart raced slightly but held steady under cool resolve, as he leaned casually against weather-beaten stonework adorned with climbing ivy —a perfect backdrop for illicit intentions, disguised beneath innocent flirting. “What colors do you favor?” He asked softly, each word wrapped around intention coiled tightly within him like tendrils circling her heart, without revealing who really stood before her. In that moment under fading sunlight, while he stood casually at water’s edge with arms firmly crossed in front of his broad chest. With calm authority softened only by genuine warmth, he parted his plump lips once more and spoke, while piercing azures captured her gaze inevitably. “For the flowers we’re meant to place next to the front porch.”

[muse-legion]

Bruno's heart was racing as he stared at Nolan, his expression a mix of surprise and frustration. He had hoped that the breakup would be the end of it, that the detective would move on, and he could return to his life without the constant risk of being discovered. But here he was, unable to stay away, and now Nolan was calling him out on his indecisiveness - which was so unlike the mobster it was ridiculous. "Nolan," Bruno started, his voice low and measured, trying to keep the tension at bay. "It's not that simple." Of course he’d use his marriage as an excuse but there was so much more Nolan didn’t - and could never - know. The double life the Conti heir was leading for example. Initially, this little affair was a means to an end; to gather intel on a case involving his own. But as time went on, he found himself coming back for more. He paused, running a hand through his hair. "What we have... it's complicated. And you always knew what you signed up for.“ okay that was a lie - at least for the most part but he never made a secret of his marriage. He may have just not mentioned his wife was the daughter of another patron who wasn’t to be crossed. Damn what was he thinking? „No. it’s not fun to me. Do you really think you’re the only one struggling here? Fuck this. I can’t promise you shit I won’t be able to keep. My situation is what it is. But I know what I want. We just can’t always have it all.“

muse: nolan romero, homicide detective, 37 open to: m / f / nb, late 20s + potential connections: struggling married couple, dating, he could be the unknowing side piece initially and your muse promised they'd break it off with their spouse for him, etc.

"last week, you said you wanted a breakup." nolan begins, his voice laced with exasperation as he leans against the doorframe. "and now you want to get back together. when can i trust that you've really made up your mind about what you want?" when it comes to his personal relationships, he is not one who enjoys getting into murky waters and staying there — quite the opposite. it is in his nature to be pragmatic, but perhaps love never is. with a sigh, nolan poses the final question, "is this fun to you, hm?"

[muse-legion]

Closed starter for: @etxrnaleclipse

Bruno learned early on that power lay not just in brute strength but in cunning and charm. With rugged good looks, sharp features softened by an enigmatic smile, he quickly became known as one of the most captivating figures within the criminal hierarchy. His calculating mind allowed him to stay several steps ahead of rivals and law enforcement alike, navigating treacherous waters with ease.

However, when whispers started circulating about Silvana —a skilled assassin reputed for her deadly efficiency—there was no trace of fear or anxiety within Bruno's cold blue eyes. No stranger to threats against his life, he had battled many enemies before; yet there was something different about this situation that intrigued him rather than dismayed him. A calculating man himself, he recognized her prowess without needing firsthand experience—he had seen her work from a distance. Instead of using all his resources to eliminate her, before she could deliver upon her mission, Bruno chose another path: letting her come at him head-on would be both entertaining and informative. He arranged a stay at a luxurious hotel, officially masking it as business trip to not raise any kind of suspicion, to lure her his way without her realizing Bruno had been awaiting her.

He absently crunched on some snacks he’d ordered earlier, while scanning the terrace for any sign of her. Observant by nature, Bruno took mental notes: which patrons wore too much cologne, how many kids were left unattended near the edge of diving board. Yet all those distractions fell short; nothing captivated him quite like Silvana’s curvaceous silhouette entering from behind one of those imposing palm trees lining the perimeter. Her reputation preceded her and yet he had to admit she was even more stunning in person than he’d remembered her on the numerous pictures he’d come across during his profound research. Pretending he didn’t see her, he made his way over to the pool bar once again to grab some food. Flashing his brightest smile and thanking the bartender, he casually turned his attention towards the beauty to his right. “Those are the best tacos ever. In case you didn’t try them yet - I highly recommend it.” Bruno uttered casually as if it had been a total coincidence he chatted her up.

[muse-legion]

Curiously raising a brow, the Italian leaned in a little to meet her gaze once more: „You speak my language? How come?“ Thorough research had revealed, she was fluent in several languages— just like himself; but Bruno knew that displaying anything about his awareness of her true intent would shatter the carefully spun web and so he acted surprised instead. It was a challenge, and perhaps a game of sorts, that intrigued him. „That depends entirely on the prize.“ He teased playfully, allowing an easy smile to play across his lips: „Veronica, it’s a pleasure to meet you.“ His voice smooth as silk, as if committing the name to memory, Bruno expertly feigned ignorance of her false alias. The weight of the encounter felt significant, and it was as if time slowed down. His deep, azure eyes glinted under the sun, captivating her as he took her hand and squeezed it gently, the touch lingering just a fraction longer than necessary—a small gesture that conveyed warmth and intrigue. „Bruno.“ He watched her reaction intently, savoring the moment as he felt the tension ripple through the air like a storm on the horizon. His introduction was far from casual; it was a deliberate move, a gamble.

The heaviness of their unspoken games and what he would call fatal attraction between the unlikely pair was undeniable and he relished the opportunity to dance around it. „Tell me, Veronica, what brings you here? Excuse my boldness but I’m not looking for trouble so I have to ask. Are you here by yourself or should I be watching out for a jealous boyfriend or girlfriend in case I asked you out?“ His flirtation was lighthearted, harmless on the surface, but every word was laden with his true motive—that of closing the trap silently around her. Bruno wanted her to feel at ease, a sense of intimacy amidst the golden rays of the sun and soft laughter of fellow guests, all while he prepared for the moment she would finally realize the truth — but for now, he simply enjoyed the dance—an elegant game of seduction and survival in a world rife with shadows.

"E avevano proprio ragione." Silvana responded in kind, having been taught a number of languages whilst growing up and understanding his Italian phrase easily. "Alright, I suppose you were right. I will give you that." Finishing what was in her mouth, she then turned more to face Bruno with a playful smirk. "So I suppose I have to ask now... Are you expecting some kind of prize for being right? Or are you able to accept your success humbly?" A single eyebrow raised as she asked the question, her eyes blatantly looking him up and down, drinking him in. She was no longer sure whether that was just part of the act, or if she was simply just appreciating what a beautiful man he was. Frankly, it was a shame to have to take him out, wasting such a body like that. But it didn't stop her from having a little fun before she completed her task.

"I'm Veronica, by the way." Silvana held out her hand to him in greeting, the false name falling off her tongue with practiced ease.

[muse-legion]

Bruno, the enigma wrapped in a muscular exterior, felt a slight thrill as the charade began to unfold. He had studied her, knew her type, and the artful way she played her role. Her feigned innocence was a dance he'd seen a hundred times before, yet she had a certain je ne sais quoi that intrigued him. His smile grew wider, a spark of amusement in his eyes at her youthful protest against formality. He knew exactly who he was dealing with, and her playful response was a dance step in the tango of deception they were about to perform. With a chuckle, both charming and slightly dangerous, he mused: „Of course, Mrs. Cartier," as his eyes swept over her briefly. Bruno stepped closer, his boots leaving light imprints on the freshly trimmed grass. The scent of jasmine and lavender filled the air, a sweet serenade to the impending seduction. "Our options are vast, like the colors of the sunset," he paused, brushing his fingertips along the roses tenderly meanwhile his piercing blues remained locked on her gaze. „Classic roses, pink or red, delicate and elegant…“ Bruno leaned in slightly, his eyes searching hers. "Or would you prefer something more... exotic?"

He was acutely aware of the power dynamics at play here and the fact, he had to proceed with caution. „And don’t worry about rumors. I don’t kiss and tell.“ The Italian trailed off lightheartedly, though he made sure not to sound disrespectful by any means. Too much too soon, and he risked blowing his cover. But the thrill of the chase was intoxicating, and he couldn't resist laying the groundwork for what was to come. „What I’m trying to say is, your secret is safe with me.“ He took in her beauty, the way the light played with the soft strands of her blonde hair, the curve of her neck, the sparkle in her eyes that hinted at the fiery spirit beneath the surface. With a knowing smile, he added: „How about a little challenge? You pick a color - any you’d like. And I’ll get your flowers in that exact color.“ All the while, his mind raced with thoughts of his true purpose here.

From the moment she had been born Dominika had been a part of a world that many didn't even know existed. Trained to wield a physical weapon as soon as she could walk and soon enough taught how to use herself as another weapon. Pull people in closer and have them wonder how deep they were before everything went dark. And then when she had been old enough it had been clear what her father and bosses had wanted from her, the woman being used to solidify a connection with a marriage and that now was her life. The pretty young blonde that people wouldn't think twice about, the gold digging trophy wife. She truly hated it, most of her days were spent like this, sprawled out on a deck chair and just doing nothing in order to portray what she wanted those to see.

Her husband had hired a new gardener, that much she had known. But whether he was a member of the family or just staff, she wasn't sure yet. There had been no formal invitation, just a brief glance as the man had pointed at her and said that she was the wife. Hearing the voice she looked up from her phone, lifting her sunglasses onto her head, "Oh please don't call me ma'am, it makes me feel old. I'm not even in my thirties yet." The words said with the bubbly voice that she had become to used to using. Pulling the straw of her drink to her mouth she grinned, "Just Dominika. Or if you're overly proper, Mrs Cartier." She hated it but understood that people would prefer to have that level of respect when speaking to their boss's wife. "Well that all depends. What are my options?" Pulling one of her legs up and leaning forward, "I don't need you spreading rumours I'm asking for colours that do not exist."