When Nikolai arrives at the party with his companion, the room's atmosphere changes dramatically, with everyone watching them closely. His ex-girlfriend, who is visibly uncomfortable, watches as Nikolai, unbothered, maintains his cold demeanor. As they move to the center of the room, Nikolai leans in to place a possessive kiss on his companion’s temple, subtly asserting his dominance and sending a silent message to his ex.

He guides her with effortless confidence to a nearby couch, sitting down and pulling her onto his lap in one smooth motion. The movement is fluid, almost as if they've done this a hundred times before. His arm wraps around her waist, holding her close, and he doesn’t waste a second before leaning in, his lips brushing against her ear. "Now, kiss me," he whispers, his voice low and husky, filled with a command that brooks no argument.

Caught off guard, she feels her heart race as Nikolai's intense gaze makes her hesitation vanish. Leaning in, she kisses him deeply, their surroundings blurring into insignificance. Nikolai pulls her closer, his kiss charged and consuming, leaving her breathless. As his lips trail down her neck, she feels herself losing control. She notices his ex-girlfriend storm out in fury, and while satisfaction mingles with the thrill of Nikolai’s embrace, she recalls their plan.

"Nikolai," she mutters breathlessly, barely able to find her voice. "She's gone now."

But Nikolai doesn't stop, doesn’t even acknowledge the departure of his ex. His lips continue their path along her neck, his breath warm against her skin. "I don’t care," he murmurs, his voice rough and sincere, each word vibrating through her. "I don’t want her. I want you."