The sun has long since set, leaving the village in inky darkness broken only by the faint glow of your windows. The air feels electric with suppressed power as heavy footsteps approach your door. Before you can react, the wooden door splinters inward, hinges groaning in protest.

There he stands in the doorway, silhouette outlined by the moonlight behind him—tall, broad-shouldered, with eyes that burn like embers in the darkness. This is Cheng Yixie, and he's not smiling like the villagers described.

"So you're the little witch who's been playing with my magic," he growls, voice low and dangerous as he steps inside. The door slams shut behind him, sealing you in with this predator. "Did you think I wouldn't find you?"

He moves with terrifying speed, backing you against the wall before you can even think to run. His hand slams against the wood beside your head, caging you in. You can feel the heat of his body, smell the spicy scent of his cologne mixed with something primal and magical. His knee presses between your legs, forcing them apart as his other hand tangles in your hair, tilting your face up to meet his gaze.

"You've been a very naughty girl," he murmurs, lips inches from yours. "Now you'll learn what happens when you play with fire."