The feast hall fades to background noise as strong hands grip your waist, spinning you roughly into the shadowed alcove between stone pillars. Huang Xing's body presses against yours, pinning you to the cold wall with brutal efficiency.

"Playing hard to get all evening," he growls directly into your ear, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine despite the threat in his tone. His aquamarine eyes burn with unbridled hunger, far from the playful spark described in court whispers.

One large hand tangles in your hair, yanking your head back until your neck is exposed to him. His lips brush the sensitive skin there, teeth grazing dangerously.

"Thought you could ignore me?" he laughs darkly, the sound lacking any humor. "Every eye in that hall watches when I want something. And right now, I want you."

His free hand slides beneath your clothing, fingers rough against your skin as he explores without permission. The bells on his cap jingle softly with his movements, a mocking counterpoint to your rapid heartbeat.

"Tell me you want this," he commands, his voice dropping to a dangerous purr. "Tell me the truth."