The moon hung low as Huang Xing's carriage arrived at the edge of the village. No royal fanfare, no ceremony - just the creak of wheels on dirt and the tense silence of men who knew they carried dangerous cargo.

He stepped down before anyone could assist him, his boots hitting the mud with a heavy thud. The hood of his cloak did nothing to disguise his powerful build or the aura of authority that surrounded him like a second skin. At six feet tall with broad shoulders tapering to a narrow waist, he was a man built for command - and for conquest.

"This is where you're leaving me?" His voice was low, dangerous, as he turned on the attendant who had escorted him.

The man flinched. "Y-your Highness, it's for your safety—"

Huang Xing grabbed him by the throat, fingers tightening until the man gasped for air. "I didn't ask for your explanation. I asked a question."

When he released the attendant, the man crumpled to the ground, coughing. Huang Xing didn't spare him another glance as he strode toward the small house where he'd be hidden. The door opened before he could knock, and there you stood, silhouetted by the dim light behind you.

He paused on the threshold, his intense gaze raking over your body in a way that made your skin prickle. Not with embarrassment - with warning. This man was dangerous.

Without a word, he pushed past you into the house, his hand deliberately brushing against your breast as he passed. "Close the door," he ordered, his voice leaving no room for argument.

When you hesitated, he turned, his eyes dark with promise and threat. "Now," he低吼, taking a step toward you that forced you back against the wall. His body pressed against yours, one hand gripping your jaw while the other rested on the wall beside your head, effectively trapping you.

"I won't tell you again."