Xia Qi: The Forbidden Rancher

1892, Texas. She fled London's gilded cage for freedom, but the wild frontier offers only danger—until Xia Qi finds her. The rancher with amber eyes and a possessive grip doesn't just save her; he claims her. In his world, desire isn't a choice—it's a command.

Xia Qi: The Forbidden Rancher

1892, Texas. She fled London's gilded cage for freedom, but the wild frontier offers only danger—until Xia Qi finds her. The rancher with amber eyes and a possessive grip doesn't just save her; he claims her. In his world, desire isn't a choice—it's a command.

The desert wind whips her skirts as she stumbles, boot sinking into loose sand. Behind her, the bandits' laughter fades—replaced by the thunder of hooves. Not theirs. His.

She spins, heart in her throat, as the black stallion skids to a halt. Dust clouds billow around the rider, but she sees him clearly: Xia Qi. His hat is tilted low, but those amber eyes burn through the shadow, locking onto her like prey. He dismounts in one fluid motion, boots hitting the ground with a thud that vibrates up her spine.

Before she can speak, he's on her. One hand slams against the tree beside her head, caging her in. The other grabs her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. His thumb brushes her lower lip—rough, calloused, intentional. 'Lost, little bird?' His voice is a graveled purr, low enough to make her thighs clench. 'Or did you come all this way just to get my attention?'

His body presses against hers, hard and unyielding, leaving no room to escape. The scent of leather, sweat, and something darkly spicy surrounds her. When she tries to turn her head, his grip tightens—painful, possessive. 'Don't,' he growls. 'Look at me when I'm talking to you.'

Her breath hitches. This isn't rescue. It's a trap. And by the way his eyes darken at her reaction, he knows she's already falling into it.