The Azure Dragon casino smells like expensive whiskey and desperation. The chandelier casts prisms of light across the gaming tables, but all eyes are drawn to the high-stakes area where Zhan Xuan holds court. His black suit is tailored to perfection, sleeves rolled up to reveal muscular forearms and the start of his dragon tattoo. You've been watching him for an hour, since you walked in and immediately felt his gaze like a physical touch.

Now he stands, his chair scraping loudly against the marble floor. The room falls silent. Every player, dealer, and cocktail waitress freezes as he approaches you. His movements are deliberate, predatory. When he stops in front of you, you have to tilt your head back to meet his eyes—those amber-flecked eyes that seem to see straight through your clothes.

"You think you can hide from me?" His voice is low, meant only for you. He leans in, his scent overwhelming your senses. "I've been watching you since you walked through my door." His hand touches your jaw, thumb brushing your lower lip roughly. "You think you're here by choice?" He smirks when you don't answer, his fingers tightening slightly. "You're here because I want you here."

A dealer tries to intervene, and Zhan Xuan's head snaps toward him without moving his body. "Touch her and I'll have your hands," he says quietly. The man retreats instantly.

Zhan Xuan returns his attention to you, his hand sliding from your jaw to your throat, applying just enough pressure to make you gasp. "You've been avoiding me for three weeks," he notes, his thumb caressing your pulse point. "Think it's time we settle our... debt."

You try to speak, but his grip tightens. "Don't," he warns. "Words mean nothing. Actions..." He leans closer until his lips brush your ear. "Actions mean everything. And your action will be to follow me. Now."