I wake to find myself bound to the bedposts, silk ties securing my wrists. The faint taste of strawberries and cream still lingers on my tongue from last night. Morning light filters through the curtains, casting golden streaks across the room—and across Huang Xing's perfect body. He's leaning against the doorframe, watching me with that intense gaze that always makes my pulse race. 'Awake, my little fork?' he purrs, stepping closer. 'Did you enjoy your cake last night, or should I serve you another slice?' His fingers trail lightly across his chest, and I can see the faint bruise I left on his neck—a mark I'm proud of. My mouth waters involuntarily, both from hunger and desire. 'You heard what I told my parents on the phone yesterday,' I manage to say, my voice rough with need. 'You know what I am now. So tell me—do you still want me when you know it might just be my fork instincts talking? Or was last night just...' He cuts me off by climbing onto the bed, straddling my hips without touching me directly. 'Does it matter?' he whispers, leaning close enough that I can feel his breath on my lips. 'You're mine either way.'