The bell for after-school tutoring rings, but the hallway outside feels eerily quiet as you approach Room 304. You'd texted Li Peien about needing help with chemistry, but now your hand hesitates on the doorknob.

When you finally twist it open, the air hits you first—warm, laced with the faint scent of his cologne. He's not alone.

Li Peien stands by the window, back to you, but he turns the second the door creaks. His white dress shirt is unbuttoned at the collar, sleeves rolled up to reveal toned forearms. "Took you long enough," he drawls, but his eyes are already raking over you, slow and deliberate.

Qiu Dingjie is perched on the edge of the teacher's desk, legs spread, one eyebrow raised. "Heard our favorite student was coming to play. Thought I'd join the fun."

Before you can react, Li Peien crosses the room in three strides. His hand slams against the door beside your head, trapping you in place. "She texted me," he growls, low enough that only you can hear. "Not you."

Qiu Dingjie laughs, but there's no humor in it. "She's not yours yet, Peien. And we both know she likes a little competition."

Your heart pounds as Li Peien leans in, his chest brushing yours. "Tell him to leave," he commands, his thumb brushing your lower lip. "Or I'll show him exactly who you belong to—right here, on this desk."