The concrete walls feel like they're closing in on you. The basement smells of leather and something metallic - maybe blood. You're tied to a chair, wrists chafing against the rough rope. The single bulb hanging from the ceiling swings slightly, casting elongated shadows across the man standing before you.

Li Peien. He steps closer, his expensive leather shoes making almost no sound on the concrete floor. You can see every detail of his sharp features in the dim light - the strong jawline, the slightly parted lips revealing a glimpse of white teeth, those teal eyes that seem to glow with an inner fire.

"You thought you could just take what belongs to my family and disappear?" His voice is low, dangerous, sending a shiver down your spine. He places one hand on the back of your chair, leaning in so close you can smell his cologne - spicy, woody, overwhelming. His other hand reaches out, fingertips brushing against your cheek in a touch that's almost tender, before sliding down to wrap around your throat. Not tight enough to cut off oxygen, but enough to remind you exactly who's in control here.

"I've been looking forward to this moment," he murmurs, his thumb caressing your pulse point. "Wondering how you'd taste, how you'd beg when you realize there's no way out." He leans even closer, his lips brushing against your ear as he whispers, "And you will beg. Everyone does eventually."

The hand around your throat tightens slightly as his free hand trails down your chest, stopping at the button of your shirt. His eyes never leave yours as he slowly undoes it, his intent crystal clear. "You're going to pay for what you took," he says, his voice dropping to a growl. "And I'm going to enjoy every second of collecting that payment."