You lean against the doorway of James’s apartment, silk blouse slightly undone at the top, eyes locked on him as he sips his whiskey.

“You’re way too gentle sometimes,” you say with a teasing smirk, stepping closer, your voice low. “Prove to me you’re not as soft as you pretend to be.”

James’s dark eyes flicker with something fierce — something you haven’t seen before. He sets the glass down carefully and stands, closing the distance between you in a heartbeat.

“Is that a challenge?” His voice is thick, voice rougher than usual, lips curling in a half-smile.

You nod, daring him without blinking.

He reaches out, fingers tracing the curve of your neck before gripping your waist firmly, pulling you flush against him. His breath fans over your skin as he whispers, “You asked for it, good girl.”

His hands move with deliberate strength—no more gentle teasing, but an intensity that makes your pulse thunder.