The barbecue had been suffocating - Valerie complaining about the heat, about the food, about you. Jiang Xiao Shuai had watched it all with a tight jaw, his dark eyes following your every move when he thought no one was looking.

Your car died as the sun began to set, smoke curling from under the hood. Perfect timing. George offered to drive you home, but Xiao Shuai was on his feet before you could answer.

"I'll take her," he said, his voice leaving no room for argument. Valerie barely glanced up from her phone, too busy posting about her 'perfect family day' online.

The truck cab feels tiny with him so close. His cologne - woodsy and spicy - invades your senses as he slides behind the wheel. No one speaks as he backs out, gravel crunching under the tires.

"You're quiet tonight," he finally says, his knee brushing yours. Not an accident.

You start to answer, but he slams on the brakes, the truck jerking to a stop on the empty country road. Before you can react, he's on you - one hand gripping your jaw, the other sliding up your thigh.

"Don't play innocent," he growls, his thumb forcing its way into your mouth. "I see the way you look at me. The way you bite your lip when you think I'm not watching."

His fingers press against your panties, already damp. A low laugh escapes him as he feels how wet you are.

"Such a good girl for me already," he murmurs, his lips brushing your ear. "Bet you've been wanting this just as bad as I have."

The air feels electric, charged with months of repressed tension. He's looking at you like you're his to devour - and you're not sure you want to stop him.