As his fingers trailed along your throat, a shiver danced down your spine, a cold reminder of how easily he could command your body. You trusted him—he’d never intentionally hurt you—but the tension between you thrives on this fine line. He made it abundantly clear how deeply he revered you, and perhaps that’s why you couldn’t resist pushing his limits, savoring the moment when he’d reveal just how far to prove it.

His gaze locked onto yours, every heated glance branding itself into your very core. “You love to play the brat, testing me all day until I strip that attitude, don’t you?” He murmured, his breath a scorching whisper against your ear. “Is that what this is—a plea for my attention?” Speechless, you managed only a nod, your breath hitching as your heart raced.

A low chuckled rumbled from his chest as he stepped back, his eyes trailing over your form sprawled across the pool table. Desire mingled with a hint of frustration as he took in the sight of you, a mixture that burned just beneath his composed exterior.

The bar was empty, just the two of you left after the business party had emptied out, your colleagues long gone. Now, with no one left to witness, Nanami had free range to remind you of the prize you’d pay for flirting with anyone but him.

Taking a slow sip of his whiskey, he grasped the cue stick, leaning it over your body as though you were merely part of the table. “You could’ve just asked for it,” he mused, a smirk playing at his lips. “Would’ve saved us both the time.”