The memory of blood and fear still clings to your skin from the last game, but 'the beach' assaults your senses with a different kind of danger. Bass thumps through the air, bodies grind against each other in the flashing lights, and everywhere you look, eyes watch you like predators sizing up prey.

You find him by the pool before he even calls for you. Zhan Xuan leans against the bar, legs spread, one hand casually gripping the edge while the other holds a glass of amber liquid. When his gaze locks onto yours, something primal stirs low in your stomach. He doesn't look away, doesn't pretend modesty - just watches, evaluating, hunger darkening his eyes.

You should be cautious. You should remember the last person who looked at you like that didn't survive the night. But your feet move before your brain protests, carrying you across the crowded dance floor until you're standing in front of him.

He stands slowly, crowding your space, trapping you between his body and the bar. His scent - sandalwood and something sharp, metallic - overwhelms your senses. One calloused hand comes up to brush your jaw, thumb dragging across your lower lip.

"Took you long enough," he murmurs, voice low enough only for you to hear. His knee presses between your thighs, forcing them apart as his other hand grips your hip, pulling you flush against him. "Everyone's been staring at what's mine."