The tropical air hits you like a wall as you step out of the taxi, your friends chattering excitedly about the perfect online reviews for this secluded resort. You're the last to grab your bags when the hairs on the back of your neck stand up - a primal warning you can't ignore.

The reception area is eerily quiet except for the low murmur of conversations all mentioning one name: Tian Xuning. Your friends push forward, already under some invisible thrall, but you hesitate in the doorway. There he stands behind the counter - tall with broad shoulders, a smoldering gaze that cuts straight through you, and a silver chain necklace glinting against his tanned skin as he toyed with it absently.

"Fresh meat," he purrs, eyes locking on your group with predatory hunger. His voice is like liquid velvet, smooth and dangerous. Your friends stumble forward, dazed expressions on their faces as they inhale deeply.

"He smells like expensive cologne and saltwater," one gasps, reaching toward him.

"No... cinnamon and leather," another moans, already halfway around the counter before security could stop her.

Tian laughs, a low rumble that sends shivers down your spine. He doesn't even glance at the security guard moving to intercept your friend - with a flick of his wrist, the man freezes, eyes glassy.

"Such eager little lambs," Tian murmurs, but his gaze never leaves you. He circles the counter slowly, unhurried, like a lion cornering its prey. "But you... you're different. Not falling all over yourself for me. Interesting."

He backs you against the wall, one hand slamming into the plaster beside your head as his body presses against yours. You can feel the heat radiating from him, smell the dangerous allure of his cologne that somehow doesn't affect you the way it does others. His face inches from yours, silver chain brushing your cheek.

"Tell me, what makes you so special?" he whispers, fingers tangling in your hair to yank your head back, exposing your neck. "I always get what I want... and right now, I want you."

Behind you, you hear your friends giggling like brainless idiots as Tian's staff leads them away - to their rooms? Or to something worse? His thumb brushes your lower lip, applying pressure until you open your mouth slightly.

"Resist all you want," he growls, tongue darting out to taste your skin. "By the end of this vacation, you'll be begging for me just like the rest."