Bento: MM Boss/Employee Romance

by T.O. Smith

It's unprofessional to want him, but I can't help myself...

Bento

Niran Chun is the quietest man I've ever known. He rarely says anything, and he's strictly business.

When Rico brought me in off the streets and gave me a job as a member on his security team, Niran was the one to train me.

I thought my crush on Niran would go away over time. I thought I'd grow up, mature, and be able to forget about him.

But my feelings have only grown.

Revealing anything for Niran goes against my own code. I owe Rico my life, and getting involved with his personal guard / the head of his security is too much of a risk.

Besides, Niran feels nothing for me. He's a soldier. That's it.

At least, that's what I believe until the day my entire world flips upside down.

~*~*~

Niran

Rico made me the head of his security and his personal bodyguard for a reason. I'm cold, calculating, and I can flip my emotions off like there's a mere switch in my brain.

Until him. Bento Perez is the one thing I can't turn off, no matter how much I want to.

I'm good at keeping what I feel for him hidden. I'm excellent at keeping my mask in place and treating him as an employee and coworker.

Until he risks his life to save Rico's husband. Until he's taken from me.

I'll rip this world to pieces to find him again. And when I do...

I hope everyone who touches him knows what's coming for them.

Because I'll burn everything to the ground to save him.

Characters in this book are featured in the Ghost Born MC series by T.O. Smith and Layne Daniels. Bento and Niran are introduced in Rico by T.O. Smith.

**Please read the author's note at the beginning of the book before deciding to read. Thank you.

**Previously published as Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons. This is the exact same book, just retitled.

180 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2025

About the author

T.O. Smith believes in one thing - a happily ever after.

Her books are fast-paced and dive straight into the romance and the action. She doesn't do extensively drawn out plots. Normally, within the first chapter, she's got you - hook, line, and sinker.

As a writer of various different genres of romance, a reader is almost guaranteed to find some kind of romance novel they'll enjoy on her page.

T.O. Smith can be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now even TikTok! She loves interacting with all of her readers, so follow her!

Reviews

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me in an absolute chokehold. 😮‍💨🔥

Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons is everything I want in a dark MM mafia romance — age gap, boss/employee tension, forbidden love, and that perfect “touch him and die” energy that makes your heart race. From the first chapter, I was all in.

Bento stole my heart immediately. He starts as a hungry street kid caught trying to pickpocket the mafia boss, Rico — but instead of punishment, he’s given a home and purpose. Over the years, he’s trained under Niran, the cold, silent head of security who hides a storm of emotion under his control. Their slow-burn attraction simmers for years until everything explodes — Bento is kidnapped after risking his life to protect Rico’s husband, and Niran goes feral. Watching him tear the world apart to bring Bento back was pure perfection.

This story has grit, loyalty, found family, and the kind of protective, possessive love that makes you ache. Niran and Bento are complete opposites — one hardened by discipline, the other soft at his core — and together they just fit. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and the payoff is everything.

If you love hurt/comfort, forbidden mafia romance, and a hero who would burn the world for his man, this one’s a must-read. T.O. Smith knows how to mix violence and devotion like no one else. ❤️‍🔥.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashley Carrillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bento was found as a baby by the dumpsters and taken in and raised by a group and homeless people who raised him. All his life all he's known is the streets and stealing to get food until one day he tries to steal from the wrong man and is caught. But instead of ending him Rico gives him food, a place to stay and a purpose as one of his guards and is assigned to be trained by his head guard Niran. From the day they meet Bento knows he's going to crush on Niran and 10 years later that's still true. Except Niran is ice cold and doesn't show anything so obviously he doesn't see Bento that way. What he doesn't know is that Niran has been hiding his feelings for Bento for just as long as Bento has had feelings for him but his go a little darker which Bento loves. I loved these two morally grey men and the unhinged way they show their love and affection as well as their obsession for each other that came out when people dared to take Bento away from Niran. The only things is that I wanted more. I'd have loved some flashbacks maybe of their feelings progressing and getting to the point of Niran owning Bento and him readily agreeing but other than that I loved this book and am looking for more from this world.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons is an MM mafia romance that had me hooked from page one. It’s got all the tropes I love—age gap, boss/employee dynamic, and that glorious “touch him and die” energy.

Bento starts as an orphan street rat, caught trying to pickpocket Rico, the head of a mafia family. Instead of punishment, he’s brought into the fold, and over the years, his bond with Niran—Rico’s head of security and bodyguard—grows into something deeper. Their slow-burn attraction simmers for ten years until danger strikes. When Bento is kidnapped after protecting Rico’s husband, Niran will stop at nothing—literally tearing the world apart—to get him back.

This story has grit, danger, and all the high stakes you want in a mafia romance, but it also delivers the payoff with a strong HEA that makes your heart full. The mix of loyalty, found family, and unconditional love gave this book so much depth alongside the steamy, possessive romance.

If you love protective heroes, slow-burn intensity, and mafia romance with real heart, this one is a must-read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons is the kind of MM mafia romance that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. From the gritty streets to the gilded halls of power, this story pulses with danger, devotion, and a love that’s been simmering for a decade. At the heart of it all is Bento—a former street rat turned fiercely loyal protector—and Niran, the stoic, lethal head of security whose quiet intensity hides a heart that beats only for Bento. Their relationship is a masterclass in slow-burn tension, built on years of shared glances, unspoken promises, and the kind of bond that can only be forged in fire. When Bento is kidnapped after risking everything to protect Rico’s husband, Niran unleashes hell to bring him home. This isn’t just a mafia romance—it’s a story about survival, loyalty, and the kind of love that refuses to be silenced. If you crave intensity, devotion, and characters who fight for each other with everything they’ve got, Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons is your next obsession.

[Emma Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons grabbed me from the first page and never let go. Bento’s quiet, desperate crush on Niran feels so painfully real—he owes his life to Rico, so the rules are simple: don’t get involved. Of course, nothing about desire ever plays by the rules. Niran is the perfect, silent stone wall of a protector—cold, controlled, utterly lethal—until Bento cracks him open.

The tension here is delicious: forbidden boss/employee dynamics, loyalty vs. longing, and that slow burn of two men who only show their true selves when the world is on the line. The action amps up the stakes beautifully (the rescue beats are tense and well-earned), and Niran’s single-minded, possessive protectiveness is written with an intoxicating blend of danger and tenderness. If you like your romance fierce, slightly dark, and packed with protect-and-possess vibes, this one’s a delicious read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dogmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niran has been obsessed with Bento since his boss brought him home when he tried to pick pocket him. Niran does not think he good enough for him. Bento fell in love with him as soon as he made him some sandwiches because the was the whole reason he was trying to steal from his boss anyways to get money to eat. Years go by and neither one acts on their feelings until Bento is kidnapped while protecting the boss' husband. Niran comes in guns blazing to protect him at all costs. Bento gets shot and Niran has never been so angry in his life and Bento is very close to death. Those who hurt Bento have no idea what is coming for them but it is gonna be bad.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read several books by T.O. Smith and this one fits right in with the intense, emotional style I’ve come to expect. Bento is a slow-burn bodyguard romance packed with unspoken feelings, loyalty, and some seriously dramatic moments.

I really liked the dynamic between Niran and Bento — all that simmering tension built up over years makes the payoff so satisfying. The action is sharp, and the emotions run deep, especially once things take a darker turn.

It’s a solid read for me: gripping, heartfelt, and full of heat, though a few pacing moments kept it from being a full five. Still, if you're into protective tough guys with soft spots and high-stakes romance, this one's definitely worth picking up.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review

[Dankinia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This MM romance novella about two mafia soldiers finally admitting their attraction gets⭐⭐⭐out of 5 from me based on the following criteria: Enjoyment 3; Characters 3; Plot 3.5, Logic 4; Atmosphere 3; Immersion 2.5; and Writing 3.5. Overall, I enjoyed this story, but I know I won't re-read it.

What worked for me:
- no 3rd act breakup
- Niran's actions during a dramatic event

What didn't work for me:
- There were a few too many characters to keep track of considering the length of the story

I'd recommend this if you are a fan of short, MM mafia romances.

Finished Reading
10/16/2025

[Jenifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story of Niran and Bento and their long time pining for one another. A horrible day on the job finally brings that longing to the surface and it's fun to watch these two take their relationship to the next level.

The story was strong on the relationship front, but weak on the bad guys and having to unalive them front. It was very anticlimactic when it got to the torture scene in the basement. But that was a minor part of this relationship and at the end of the day these two men getting together was the main focus and was done quite well.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Curvy Girl Book Nerd (Jen S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

SLAY TRICKSTERS AND SILENT SKELETONS is a steamy, age-gap, MM, mutual-pining, guy wants his boss romance. It takes place in the Ghost Born MC world. Bento is a member of Rico's security team. Niran is the head of Security. The two have been pining for each other but Bento feels guilty because Rico saved him. Niran is concerned because he is his employee and has denied his feelings. When Bento is in danger though after putting himself on the line for Rico's husband, Niran is done denying his feelings. OMG, this was another hot read with danger, drama, hot chemistry and finally a happy ending, but what a roller-coaster ride. I love this whole Ghost Born MC so much!

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

'I was going to find Bento, and I was going to bring him home. And then, I was going to torture the mother fuckers who took him from me before forcing them to die a slow, painful death.
No one got to take my man from me and live to tell the fucking tale.'

I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. This story quickly turned fast-paced and dangerous, suspenseful and heart-pounding. I was completely hooked. I loved both Bento and Niran. The chemistry between them was scorching and I was so happy that they both got what they'd been wanting for ten years- each other. The dynamic between them was delicious. I also loved the supporting characters. 5 stars

[Merilu Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bento and Niran have been circling their respective desires for way too long! The attraction is intense and when danger hits too close, Niran can’t wait any longer to state his claim. I love this series and these men are so expressive with their one! TO Smith’s stories are emotional, spicy, and gripping: I love the interconnection between series because it���s more like family! Love is universal: no lines, no colors, no prejudices, just acceptance which makes me happy for them!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bento grew up the street, never knowing where he came from. He is caught trying to pick the pocket of mafia head, Rico. Rico must of been feeling generous that day, instead of punishing him, he brings him to his house and has him train as a guard with Niran.

Both find the other attractive but do not act on it until ten years later when Bento is kidnapped and beaten, protecting Rico's husband. Niran is ready to go scorched earth to find his man. This is a high heat with plenty of action romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer D · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have only read a few of this series and unfortunately didn’t start at the beginning, I did read RICO, the book prior to this one and I would recommend doing that so it will make more sense. I really liked Niran and Bento together. A tiny bit on the darker side of things. Sort of unrequited move but it’s more talked about and we (the readers) don’t have to live through ten years of pining (thank god😳😬🤗). There’s some good action, some feels and some good sex. It’s a great found family situation too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niran and Bento have secretly/silently been obsessed with each other for years but have never acted on their feelings until Bento is kidnapped while saving his boss Rico's husband. Niran realizes that he has to save the man he loves and can't live without and anyone who had a hand in it or stands in his way is going to pay with their life.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Spice Fan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

I was looking forward to Niran’s and Bento’s story and this did not disappoint.

As per other books in the series, the prologue sets the scene for one character - this time Bento - and is a little heartbreaking. Also as per the other books, this is straight into it and fast moving, a book you just dive into and before you know it the epilogue is here and you’re dying for the next instalment.

I loved Niran’s protective side and control and Bento’s mouthy brattishness. There’s the super hot spice we’re used to as well as glimpses of uncharacteristic sweetness. Another T.O. Smith book that I knew I’d love, and just sat back and enjoyed the ride.

Looking forward to Alfonzo’s story next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is oat of the Ghost Burn MC series it is best to have read at least Rico before this book. The characters were dark, complex and perfect together. World building continues to excel and impress. The plot drove the storyline and was meticulously thought out and drawn. Great story! I highly recommend the series. Cannot wait for more from T.O. Smith.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bento was left as a baby in an alley and raised by street people. He survived by picking pockets until he tried to pick the wrong pocket. Rico saved him and turned him over to be trained in security by Niran. Now ten years later he's the personal bodyguard for Rico's husband Anurak. Then he's ambushed and beaten up saving Anurak. Niran saves him and claims him. Loved their story. Received a free copy.

[Rowena · Rating 4 out of 5]

The next book in the Ghost Born MC series gives its readers a quick MM romance story. Niran and Bento has been hiding their feelings for each other until a situation brings the monster in Niran. Will he be able to find Bento? One click to find out in this fast paced addition to the series that doesn’t disappoint. I enjoyed how the characters finally confronts their feeling for each other while danger is happening around them that ends with a HEA.

[booking _with_romancegirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was Alot of tension I loved it

The passion is so raw in this and they fight each other so hard like I mean wow that they tried to stay apart and to keep their feelings hidden was amazing but the way they are for each other is like they push each other's buttons I loved the banter and I loved how they didn't take each other's crap it was so good and the dynamic between all the side characters as well just made it even better.

[Eve R. Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was fast-moving and I loved it. Perfect little taste of a Halloween treat.
Not a very long read, but with the way the author set up the beginning, it wasn't insta love. Bento and Niran have been doing this dance for ten years. It all comes to a head when one of them gets into a dangerous situation. Then that's it. All holding back for the sake of the job snaps and these two have claimed each other forever.

[lf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simmering passion just waiting for the fuse to be lit

Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons by T.O. Smith is part of the multi-author 31 Days of Trick or Treat: Biker & Mobster series. This is a MM romance which takes place in the author's Ghost Born MC series. The story is about Bento Perez and Niran Chun with a lot of feels and simmering attraction which neither picks up on from the other. Once the spark ignites these two are out of the gates with a fire on their heels.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bentos life changed when he pick pocket Rico, he was goven a life lina to be trained in security for the mafia and Niran was his trainer, now 10 uesrs on they kept their feelings at bay but when Bentos taken Niran will rip the world apart to get him back. Well written engaging steamy desires drama action spicy MM romance

[Sherry Hays · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book but it was so very good.

The characters had very romantic chemistry and moments between the couple.

There is loads of action and intrigue for readers.

I would recommend this book to others.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann L · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is about a quiet, stoic bodyguard and the one person he can’t ignore. Forbidden feelings ignite, and when that person is taken, nothing will stop him from tearing the world apart to get them back.

From the start I loved Bento and Niran and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab me by the feels and squeeze! Yes, this book did that. So damn hot and wild.The characters were so well written and the plot was mesmerizing.
When Niran and Bento were finally able to release ... smoking!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amanda Grange · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took roughly 5 sentences for me to be hooked on Bento. When Niran was introduced, I fell in love. The way he cared about and took care of Bento gave me heart eyes. My heart hurt for Bento as he was describing how he felt he was perceived by Rico. He had such a low self worth. That wasn't ever really resolved which is my only complaint.

[Jenn H · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts with a rather poignant prelude and just gets better from there! The characters have depth and the flipping between their points of view gives great insight into their personal angst. When things gets dicey man oh man does Niran rise to the occasion and then some for Bento!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Story!!
I really enjoyed reading Slay Tricksters and Silent Skeletons. This was a quick read for me once I started reading it. Bento and Niran’s story was beautifully done. I can’t wait for Alfonzo’s story!!

[Kurtins R · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story has grit, danger, and all the high stakes you want in a mafia romance, but it also delivers a strong HEA. An intense mix of loyalty, found family, and unconditional love is an intrinsic part of this book alongside the steamy, possessive romance.