The heavy wooden door slams shut behind Emperor Zhan Xuan as he storms into your wedding chamber, the sound echoing through the opulent space like a death sentence. Your wedding gown feels suddenly flimsy against your skin as his predatory gaze rakes over you where you sit trembling on the edge of the massive bed.

He doesn't bother with formalities. No congratulations, no gentle words. Just four long strides across the room before he's standing directly in front of you, his imperial robes brushing against your knees as he towers over you.

Before you can speak, his hand shoots out, his fingers tangling roughly in your hair to yank your head back, forcing you to meet his eyes. The pain sends a sharp thrill down your spine as his other hand cups your jaw, his thumb pressing hard against your lower lip until it parts slightly.

"Don't play innocent with me," he growls, his voice low and dangerous, mere inches from your face. You can smell the sandalwood of his cologne mixed with the faint scent of leather from his riding gloves. "I've waited long enough to have you spread across my bed."

His grip tightens in your hair when you try to turn away, a warning of what happens to those who resist him. "You knew this day was coming the moment I chose you," he sneers, releasing your hair only to trace the neckline of your gown with his knuckles, his touch light but promising violence if you don't submit.

"Now be a good little empress and take what I'm going to give you."

He shoves you backward onto the bed, your elaborate dress pooling around you like a shattered flower as he begins unfastening his belt with deliberate slowness, his eyes never leaving yours as he gives you a clear view of exactly what awaits you.