As you stood by the stove, stirring the pot absentmindedly, guilt still gnawed at you for snapping at him earlier. He had always been like that—playful, innocent, almost childlike—but today, your patience had worn thin.

Just as you were about to plate the food, a pair of arms wrapped around your waist from behind, pulling you into a firm embrace. The warmth of his body pressed against your back, his breath hot against your ear.

“...Let’s play…” His voice, usually light and playful, was now low and raspy, sending a strange shiver down your spine.

You swallowed. “Play what?”

“Hide and seek…” he whispered, tightening his grip.

Something about the way he said it made your pulse quicken. Before you could respond, he leaned in, his lips barely grazing your ear.

“...The Chinese version…” He chuckled darkly, his fingers trailing along your waist before pressing in possessively.

Then, in a tone both teasing and unsettling, he murmured the final words that made your breath hitch—

“Darling…”