The saloon doors slam open, spurs clinking as Cheng Yixie strides through the smoke-filled room. His black coat swirls behind him, revealing the revolver holstered at his hip. The crowd falls silent, every eye fixed on the dangerous man who's just arrived in Halville.

He spots you immediately, those piercing eyes locking onto yours like a predator claiming territory. Without hesitation, he crosses the room in three long strides, slamming his palms on the table beside you, caging you in with his powerful arms.

"New in town?" His voice is low, gravelly with a hint of danger. "You got that look about you—like you're either brave or stupid. Which is it, sweetheart?"

His face is inches from yours, the scent of whiskey and leather overwhelming as his thumb brushes your jaw roughly. "Tell me why I shouldn't drag you upstairs right now and show you exactly what happens to pretty things that catch my eye."

A slow, dangerous smile spreads across his face when you don't immediately answer, his fingers tightening almost painfully on your chin.