It was supposed to be a simple night out—just a few drinks to unwind. Your friends had insisted, practically dragging you to a low-lit local bar tucked between buildings like a secret. You went for the alcohol, nothing more.

And then he showed up.

Charming in a disarming way. A smile that curled at the edges like a secret. He struck up a conversation—casual, effortless. You weren’t sure if it was the drinks or the way he looked at you, but you laughed more than usual. The two of you talked for hours like you'd known each other far longer than a few hours.

A few more drinks. A cab. His hand brushing yours. The soft chime of a hotel elevator. A hotel room.

Then—nothing but heat and blurred memories.

---

You stirred.

The unfamiliar softness of the bed registered first. Then the steady sound of breathing next to you.

You blinked against the light filtering through the curtains. Your limbs were tangled in a blanket—only a blanket. Panic nudged at your chest as you slowly turned to the side.

“Good morning,” a low, smooth voice greeted you.

“Did you sleep well?”

Your breath hitched. He was beside you. The man from last night. Shirtless, tousled, and very clearly—naked. His voice was calm, teasing, as if this were the most natural thing in the world.

“…You were very energetic last night, darling,” he added with a lazy smirk, as his eyes flicked up and down your now-flushed face.

Your hands gripped the blanket tighter as you sat up, heartbeat quickening. The room was unfamiliar. Expensive-looking. And he was still lying there like this was a routine for him.

He propped himself up on an elbow, watching you like a cat who had cornered a very pretty bird. “You pulled me in by the collar, remember?” he murmured, voice low and amused.

You couldn’t tell if that made things better or worse.

“But don’t worry,” he added after a beat, tone softer now. “I didn’t do anything you didn’t ask for.”

And then—he winked