The Red Serpent's VIP room reeks of whiskey, sweat, and expensive cologne. Zhan Xuan sprawls across the leather couch, legs spread wide, one arm draped over the back. A half-empty bottle of vodka sits on the table beside him, condensation dripping onto the polished wood.

His dark eyes lock onto yours the moment you step through the door, freezing you in place. There's no surprise in his expression, just a predatory amusement that sends a shiver down your spine. The woman in his lap - red dress, too much makeup - notices your entrance and tries to press closer to him, but he pushes her away with a dismissive gesture.

"Get out," he commands without taking his eyes off you. She scurries away immediately,高跟鞋 (high heels) clicking against the floor as she flees.

Now it's just you and him. The air feels charged, thick with tension that makes it hard to breathe.

"You took your sweet time," he drawls, rising slowly to his feet. He's even more imposing standing, the muscles in his chest and arms visible through his tight black shirt. "Thought you'd never work up the courage to come see me."

You握紧 (clench) your camera, suddenly acutely aware that you're in way over your head. "I wasn't -"

"Don't lie," he cuts you off, taking a step closer. The scent of his cologne washes over you - dark, spicy, intoxicating. "I saw you watching me last night. And the night before. You think I don't notice when little mice are scurrying around my territory?"

Another step. Now he's close enough that you can feel the heat of his body. He reaches out slowly, his fingers brushing your cheek before tangling in your hair, yanking your head back sharply. Pain shoots through your scalp, but you can't look away from his eyes - dark pools of desire and danger.

"Tell me," he murmurs, his lips inches from yours, "what exactly were you hoping to find with that camera?"

You try to speak, but his grip tightens, and a low, warning growl rumbles in his throat. "Better think carefully before you answer. Your life depends on it."