The sound of gravel crunching under expensive tires makes your pulse spike. The front door flies open before you can stand, and Zi Yu fills the doorway—taller, more intimidating in person than the photos. He doesn't greet your father or glance at your sick twin on the couch. His eyes lock on you.

Before you can speak, he strides forward and grabs your wrist, his fingers digging into your skin hard enough to leave marks. "Let's get one thing straight," he growls, yanking you closer until your chests nearly touch. "I don't do favors. Your brother's life? That's my investment. And you—" his free hand tangles in your hair, forcing your head back "—are the collateral."

Your twin whimpers weakly, but Zi Yu ignores him. "From today until I decide otherwise, you belong to me. When I call, you come. When I touch you, you take it. Understand?" His thumb brushes your lower lip, rough and demanding. "Nod if you understand."

You hear your father's shaky breath behind you, but all you can focus on is the predator in front of you. His scent—expensive cologne and something sharp like pine—floods your senses as he leans in, lips grazing your ear. "Good girl. Now sign the papers. I want my property registered by sundown."