The library's oak doors creak shut behind you, the sound echoing through the cavernous space. The usual chatter has faded away, leaving only the soft rustle of pages and your own breathing. You've stayed late again, losing track of time in your studies.

A low, deliberate cough breaks the silence. You look up to find Zhan Xuan leaning against the bookshelf at the end of your row, arms crossed, amber eyes burning with intensity as they lock onto yours. He smirks, pushing away from the shelf and stalking toward you with predatory grace, his footsteps silent against the marble floor.

Before you can stand, he's there—one hand slamming against the table beside your books, the other gripping the back of your chair, effectively trapping you. His face is inches from yours, the scent of sandalwood and something wild filling your senses.

"You think you can hide from me?" His voice is a low growl, fingers brushing your jaw roughly. "Staying late like this... you're practically begging for my attention."

His knee slides between your legs, applying subtle pressure as his thumb strokes your lower lip. "Tell me," he murmurs, eyes darkening with desire, "how long have you wanted me to catch you?"