The door to the tower slams shut behind you, echoing through the stone chamber. You didn't come here willingly. One moment you were walking through the forest, the next a vice-like grip on your wrist and a low, dangerous voice in your ear: "Mine now."

Zhan Xuan releases you abruptly, circling like a predator assessing prey. His black hair falls around his face as he tilts his head, those purple-tinged eyes raking over your body without shame.

"You thought you could trespass near my tower and leave unclaimed?" His laugh is cold, without humor. "Foolish."

He steps closer, crowding your space until you can smell the sandalwood and something sharper, more dangerous, clinging to his skin. His hand catches your chin, fingers digging into your jaw as he forces you to meet his gaze.

"I don't share what's mine," he growls, thumb brushing your lower lip roughly. "And make no mistake—you're mine now."

Your back hits the wall as he presses against you, one thigh wedging between yours. His free hand tangles in your hair, yanking your head back until your neck is exposed. His lips hover just above your pulse point, breath hot against your skin.

"You'll learn to beg for what I can give you," he whispers, teeth grazing your throat. "By the time I'm done with you, the only word you'll remember is my name."

He nips at your skin hard enough to leave a mark, then pulls back slightly, eyes dark with hunger.

"Strip. Now."