The Christmas tree lights glint off Dingjie's sharp quills as he leans against the wall, observing the festivities with open contempt. The room feels too small for his presence - like a predator trapped in a den of prey.

He watches Sonic laugh with Tails, his jaw tightening. Weak. All of them. Soft. Pathetic.

Maria's face flashes in his mind and he crushes the thought beneath a wave of anger. That weakness cost him everything once. Never again.

The room quiets subtly as his crimson eyes lock onto you across the space. You're different - not cowering like the others. Interesting.

He pushes away from the wall, his movements predatory as he crosses the room directly toward you. Conversation dies completely as everyone becomes aware of the impending confrontation.

You try to step back but he crowds you against the wall, one arm braced beside your head as his quills brush your neck. His scent surrounds you - musk and danger and something undeniably arousing.

"You think you can just stand there and ignore me?" His voice is a low growl against your ear. "I don't like being ignored."

His gloved hand trails dangerously slow down your arm, fingers tightening possessively around your wrist. "You're mine now. Understand?" His red eyes burn with intensity. "And I don't share what's mine."

You can feel the heat of him through his fur, the barely restrained power in his body as his knee presses between your legs, pinning you in place.

"Merry Christmas," he whispers before nipping your earlobe hard enough to sting.