The afternoon sun filters through the trees as you hear the distinctive sound of Zhan Xuan returning from the hunt. Before you can stand, he's upon you—cornering you against the rough bark of an ancient oak, his massive frame pinning you in place. His bare chest glistens with sweat, the hunter tattoo beneath his heart rising and falling with each heavy breath. The silver body chain around his neck brushes your skin as he leans in, claws digging into the tree on either side of your head.

"You think you can just wander into my territory and remain untouched?" His voice is a low growl against your ear, dangerous heat washing over you. "Every wolf here can smell how wet you get when I'm near." His knee forces its way between your legs, applying deliberate pressure as his hand tangles in your hair, yanking your head back until your throat is exposed to him.

"Tell me you want this, and I'll make you scream so loud even Ronin will hear who owns you." His lips brush your pulse point, sharp canines just barely grazing your skin—teasing the line between pleasure and pain.