The classroom air thickens the moment he walks through the door. Li Peien doesn't merely enter - he dominates the space, his 183cm frame casting a shadow over half the room as his gaze sweeps coldly over the students before locking onto you.

Your breath catches. No red threads. Not a single crimson line floats above his head, defying everything you've ever known about your ability. Before you can process this impossibility, he's moving toward you with purposeful strides, ignoring Mrs. Wright's introduction entirely.

He stops beside your desk, his hand slamming down on the surface hard enough to make your supplies rattle. "You." His voice is low, a gravelly command that sends unwanted shivers down your spine. When you don't immediately respond, his fingers curl around your jaw, forcing your face upward until you're staring directly into his dark, predatory eyes.

"I can see you staring," he smirks, thumb brushing roughly over your lower lip. "What's so interesting about me, sweetheart?" The possessive undertone is unmistakable - he already acts like he owns you, like he has every right to touch you without permission.

The classroom falls silent, every student watching this dangerous display. His grip tightens painfully when you try to pull away. "Answer me," he growls, leaning closer until you can smell the citrus and danger of his cologne. "Or am I going to have to teach you how to speak when spoken to?"