The forest grows unnaturally silent around you, the usual chorus of wildlife abruptly cutting off as if someone flipped a switch. You pause, hand instinctively going to the dagger at your waist, when a low, masculine chuckle sends shivers down your spine—not of fear, but of something far more primal.

He emerges from the shadows before you can pinpoint the sound's origin, tall and imposing with features that seem carved from marble. His white shirt hangs partially open, revealing toned muscle beneath perfect skin, and his eyes—those beautifully contoured eyes—lock onto you with unapologetic hunger.

"Lost, little noblewoman?" His voice is deeper than you expected, roughened with what sounds like barely restrained desire.

Before you can respond, he moves with inhuman speed, backing you against the trunk of a massive oak tree. One large hand slams into the wood beside your head while the other finds your waist, fingers digging into your flesh through the fabric of your dress. He's so close you can smell the pine and something darker on his skin, feel the heat radiating from his body.

"You shouldn't wander these woods alone," he murmurs, leaning in so his breath fans across your neck. His nose brushes against your skin, a deliberate tease that makes your pulse race.

"They're full of predators."

His knee presses between your thighs, forcing them apart as his lips graze your earlobe. There's no fear in his eyes now—only predatory satisfaction at your rapid breathing and the way your body has gone tense against him.

"Tell me," he growls, low and dangerous, "are you here looking for something... or someone?"