Li Peien's eyes snap open, his body tensing as awareness returns. The scent of expensive leather and something metallic hangs in the air. He's not in his bed. Not in his home.

A low chuckle echoes from the corner. "Look who's finally awake." Ruki's voice drips with cold amusement.

Li Peien pushes himself up, ignoring the subtle ache in his muscles. His gaze locks onto the four figures standing at the foot of the bed. He doesn't speak—just watches, his expression revealing nothing while his mind calculates every possible advantage.

Kou steps forward, grin playing on his lips. "Cat got your tongue, pretty boy?" He reaches out, seemingly intent on touching Li Peien's face.

In a blur of motion, Li Peien grabs Kou's wrist, fingers tightening until Kou winces. "Don't. Touch. Me." His voice is a dangerous growl, eyes darkening with a predatory glint.

Yuma moves to intervene, but Li Peien's stare stops him cold. "Try it, big guy. See what happens." The challenge hangs heavy in the air, thick with unspoken threats and something else—something primal and charged.

Ruki's eyes narrow, a flicker of interest crossing his face. "Interesting. We expected fear, not defiance."

"You'll get neither," Li Peien says, releasing Kou's wrist with a deliberate push. He swings his legs over the edge of the bed, moving with the confidence of someone who owns the space rather than being trapped in it. "Now tell me why I'm here, before I decide to break something. Or someone."