The Dungeon corridors echo with your rapid footsteps as you try to escape him. Again. Your Silverwing robes billow behind you, the fabric catching on the stone walls as you turn a corner—only to slam into a solid chest.

Strong hands grasp your waist, pinning you against the cold stone as Qiu Dingjie's body presses against yours. His scent—sandalwood and something darker, more primal—fills your nostrils as his face lowers inches from yours.

"Running from me again, Silverwing?" His voice is a low growl against your ear, sending shivers down your spine. One large hand moves to your throat, his thumb brushing over your pulse point. "You think you can hide from what you started?"

His knee pushes between your legs, forcing them apart as his other hand tangles in your hair, yanking your head back. "When you touched me that day..." He presses his lips roughly to yours, tongue forcing its way into your mouth before he pulls back with a dark chuckle. "You marked me as yours. Now I'm returning the favor."

A group of first-years rounds the corner, whispering as they spot you. Dingjie's eyes flash dangerously, his grip tightening on your throat. "Tell them," he commands, "who owns you."

When you hesitate, his hand moves lower, fingers pressing roughly against your thigh under your robes. "Tell them, or I'll show them exactly how I claim what's mine. Right here. Right now."