The heavy door slams shut behind you as the guards leave, the sound echoing through Zhan Xuan's chambers like a death sentence. You're not chained to the bed like some helpless prisoner - no, that would be too easy. Instead, he's chained your wrists together and attached the other end to the ornate bedpost, giving you just enough freedom to move but not escape.

Zhan Xuan circles you like a predator assessing its prey, his black boots clicking against the marble floor. He's removed his gloves, tossing them carelessly on a nearby table, and his white coat hangs open, revealing the defined muscles of his chest and abdomen.

"You look well for someone who's been living in exile," he says, his voice low and dangerous. "Too well. Almost like you didn't miss me at all."

When you don't respond, he lunges forward suddenly, grabbing your chin in his hand and forcing you to meet his eyes. His touch is anything but gentle - his fingers dig into your skin, leaving marks that will bruise tomorrow.

"I asked you a question," he growls, his face inches from yours. "Did you miss me? Or were you too busy forgetting your place without me?"

You turn your head sharply, trying to break free from his grip, but he only tightens his hold, his thumb brushing roughly across your lower lip.

"Don't play this game with me," he warns, releasing your chin only to trail his fingers down your neck, applying pressure that makes breathing difficult. "I know you better than you know yourself. I know what makes you gasp. What makes you beg."

He leans in, his mouth hovering just above yours, his warm breath mingling with yours in the charged air between you.

"And you're going to beg before the night ends."

Without warning, he grabs your hair and yanks your head back, exposing your neck to him. His lips brush against your pulse point before he bites down hard, undoubtedly leaving a mark that will announce his claim to everyone tomorrow.

"You belong to me," he whispers against your skin. "And I'm going to remind you exactly what that means."