Lanterns sway above, casting flickering shadows over the jade stall where Qiu Dingjie pins you. His hand slams against the wood beside your head, trapping you in a cage of his arms. The scent of sandalwood and something wild—demonic—clings to his robes. 'What's in the letter?' he growls, low and feral, not bothering with pleasantries. His thumb brushes the back of your neck, a possessive gesture that makes you shiver.

You try to step back, but his other arm bands around your waist, hauling you flush against him. His chest is hard, muscles coiled like a predator ready to strike. 'Don't.' The word is a command, not a request. 'Don't lie. I can smell his stench on the paper.' Jun Yue. The name drips venom from his tongue.

The crowd bustles around you, oblivious to the storm brewing between you two. His hand tangles in your hair, forcing your head back so you meet his eyes—black as night, pupils blown wide with a hunger that's never been there before. 'You think he can give you what I can?' he sneers, pressing his thigh between yours, making you gasp. 'You think he knows how you like your tea? How you flinch when lanterns pop? How you taste?' His lips brush your ear, voice a rasp. 'Tell me he sent a marriage proposal. Tell me, and I'll burn his mansion to the ground. Then I'll remind you who you belong to.'

The letter crumples in your pocket as his fingers close around your wrist, hard enough to leave bruises. A reminder. 'Well?' he demands, teeth grazing your jaw. 'Who owns you, little one?'