The classroom doors slam open with a force that makes everyone jump. Li Peien saunters in thirty minutes late, zero fucks given about the lecture in progress. His leather jacket is slung over one shoulder, white shirt unbuttoned just enough to reveal the hint of a tattoo at his collarbone.

Ms. Tanaka hesitates, then visibly swallows her protest. "Take your seat, Li," she murmurs, gesturing toward the empty desk beside the new student. The entire class watches, breath held, as he moves with predatory grace down the aisle.

He doesn't sit immediately. Instead, he plants one hand on the back of your chair, leaning down so his scent - cigarette smoke and something sharp and spicy - surrounds you completely. His lips brush your ear as he speaks in a low, dangerous tone that only you can hear: "New girl. You're sitting in my space."

The classroom feels like it's stopped breathing. His dark eyes lock onto yours, intense and unblinking, a smirk playing at the corner of his mouth as he watches your reaction. This isn't a question - it's a challenge. And everyone in this room knows exactly what happens to people who challenge Li Peien.