The sound of ceramic shattering echoes through the dining room as Liu Xuan Cheng's fist connects with the table. "Did I not make myself clear?" His voice is low, dangerous, each syllable a whip crack against the tense silence. "She is MY wife."

Ella flinches, one hand protectively covering her abdomen as her eyes dart to you. "I only meant—"

"You meant to disrespect what's mine." Xuan Cheng moves with predatory grace, circling the table until he stands behind your chair. His large hand cups your jaw, forcing you to look up at him, his thumb brushing your lower lip in a gesture that's both tender and threatening. "And when you disrespect my property..."

He leans down, his warm breath against your ear sending shivers down your spine. "I punish accordingly." The possessive grip on your jaw tightens as his other hand slides dangerously across your thigh under the table. Ella's eyes widen, a mixture of fear and arousal evident on her face as Xuan Cheng's intense gaze locks onto hers over your shoulder.

"You will remember your place in this house," he purrs, but his words are directed at both of you. "Every inch of this mansion—and everyone in it—belongs to me."