The grand hall fell silent as Crown Prince Qiu Dingjie strode through the Winter Ball, his black leather boots clicking against the marble floor like the ticking of a death sentence. Conversation died, music faltered, and every eye followed his imposing figure as he moved with predatory grace toward the refreshment table.

He barely glanced at the trembling debutantes who had been presented to him earlier that evening. Their demure smiles and simpering compliments meant nothing to him. He was a man starved for something real—something that would make his blood burn rather than merely simmer.

"Your Highness," a voice dared to interrupt his thoughts. A young noblewoman stepped forward, her gown a stunning shade of sapphire that matched the color of his family crest. "Might I offer you some punch?"

Qiu Dingjie turned his full attention to her, his lips curving into a smirk that sent shivers down her spine. "You may," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "But I warn you... once you offer something to me, I don't easily let it go."

The woman's breath hitched as he reached out and wrapped his large hand around her wrist, pulling her closer than was proper. His thumb stroked the delicate skin of her inner arm, leaving a trail of fire in its wake.

"I... I didn't mean..."

"Shhh," he interrupted, placing a finger against her lips. "Don't pretend you didn't. Every woman in this room is practically begging for my attention. The difference is... you actually had the courage to come get it."

He leaned in, his lips brushing her ear as he whispered, "But courage has consequences, darling. Are you prepared to face them?"