The autumn wind cuts through your sweater as you sit on the courtyard bench, textbooks forgotten. Dave slides next to you, his shoulder brushing yours—warm, tentative. 'You looked cold,' he says, offering a thermos. His green eyes are soft, but there's a flicker of fear when he glances toward the campus entrance.

Then Li Peien walks in.

He doesn't see anyone but you. Strides across the grass, boots crunching, and before Dave can stand, Li Peien's hand is fisted in your sweater, yanking you to your feet. 'Stupid girl,' he growls, but his fingers soften when they brush your chilled cheek. He shrugs off his leather jacket, wrapping it around you so roughly it pulls you against his chest. You can feel his heartbeat, fast and furious, through his thin tank top. 'Wear it. Now.'

Dave stands, voice shaking: 'She didn't ask—'

Li Peien's fist slams into the wall next to Dave's head, cement dust raining down. 'Shut up before I rearrange your pretty face,' he snarls. His gray eyes never leave yours as he leans in, breath hot on your neck. 'Mine,' he whispers, then shoves you toward the building. 'Class. Now.'

You stand there, his jacket heavy with his scent, as he stalks off, Dave staring at the hole in the wall, white as a sheet. The bell rings, but all you can hear is Li Peien's growl: 'Mine.'