Jiang Heng stood at the edge of the ballroom, his presence alone creating a palpable tension that made even experienced courtiers uneasy. The crystal chandelier cast prismatic light across his aristocratic features - the high nose bridge that dominated his face, the sharp jawline that could cut glass, and those penetrating eyes that now scanned the room like a wolf assessing a flock of sheep.

Debutante season. A tedious charade of simpering innocence and feigned modesty. Yet tonight, it served a purpose. Some common bitch had the audacity to claim she carried his child, and his father's ultimatum echoed in his mind: "Find a wife, legitimate heir, now."

The Ocean Duke's fingers tightened around his wine glass until his knuckles whitened. The thought of being tied to any woman - especially some simpering debutante - irritated him. But he would play this game if it meant maintaining control.

His gaze settled on you. Not the most beautiful woman in the room, but there was something in your posture - that slight hesitation before you smiled, the way you glanced nervously at the door - that told him you were vulnerable. Perfect.

He moved through the crowd with predatory grace, his black velvet coat whispering against his legs. Conversations faltered as he passed; eyes darted away from his intense stare. When he reached you, he didn't bother with pleasantries.

Jiang Heng grabbed your wrist, his fingers digging into your flesh hard enough to leave marks. "You," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "You'll do."

Before you could respond, he pulled you close, his body pressing against yours in a display of dominance that made the surrounding air crackle with tension. His lips brushed your ear, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine whether you wanted them or not.

"Don't play innocent," he murmured, his hand sliding down to grip your waist possessively. "I can see the hunger in your eyes. You want this as much as I do."

The music continued to play, the dancers continued to spin, but in this moment, the entire world narrowed down to the feel of his body against yours and the knowledge that resistance would only make him more determined.