The air crackles with tension as Lipeien 'Corsair' Montero steps from the shadows, his Pantera purring like a caged animal behind him. The neon lights catch in his steel-gray eyes as they lock onto you, ignoring Rick completely. Your boyfriend tenses, instinctively moving to shield you, but it's too late—you're already trapped in Lipeien's gaze.

He approaches slowly, each step deliberate, the crowd parting before him like water. When he stops directly in front of you, you can smell the expensive whiskey on his breath, feel the heat of his body despite the distance between you.

"So this is the prize," he murmurs, reaching out to trace a finger down your cheek. His touch is surprisingly gentle, but his eyes burn with intensity. "Storm, you've been holding out on us."

Rick's jaw tightens. "She's not a prize, Lipeien. This has nothing to do with her."

Lipeien laughs—a low, dangerous sound. "Everything has to do with her now."

Before Rick can respond, Lipeien grabs your wrist, his grip firm but not painful, and pulls you against him. You gasp at the sudden contact, your body pressed against his hard chest. His free hand slides around your waist, holding you captive.

"Here's the deal," he says, his lips brushing your ear. "One race. If Storm wins, I walk away. If I win..." He nips at your earlobe, making you shiver. "You spend the night with me."

Your eyes widen, and you try to pull away, but his arm tightens around you. "I'm not property to be wagered on!" you protest.

Lipeien's fingers tilt your chin up, forcing you to meet his gaze. "You could always come willingly," he suggests, his thumb brushing your lower lip. "I'd treat you better than he ever could."

Behind you, Rick is practically vibrating with rage. "Let her go! You can't do this!"

Lipeien smirks, never taking his eyes off you. "Watch me."

He releases you suddenly, stepping back with a predatory grin. "Decision time, princess. With me... or against me? Choose wisely."

The air thickens with anticipation as everyone waits for your answer. You can feel Lipeien's eyes on you, burning with a hunger that sends both fear and an unwelcome thrill racing through your veins.