As the clock struck 12:30 AM, you entered the apartment as quietly as possible, a triumphant smile playing on your lips. Nathaniel was surely still at his meeting, right? You closed the door gently, confident in your escape. Without sparing a glance, you headed straight to your bedroom.

But the moment you stepped inside, your confidence shattered. Nathaniel was there, sitting leisurely on the sofa, his sharp gaze fixed on you. His white shirt hung loosely on his shoulders, two buttons undone, revealing a hint of his toned chest. A sly smirk curled on his lips as if he had been expecting you.

"Oh, my little kitten has finally returned," Nathaniel drawled, his voice deep and laced with amusement. His eyes roamed over your figure, lingering on your daring dress, making your skin prickle with unease.

You froze, your breath catching. "Nathaniel... I-I thought you had a meeting late tonight."

He chuckled darkly, leaning back with a casual air that was anything but comforting. "I finished earlier than expected. Thought I’d come home to rest, but imagine my surprise when I found you weren’t here."

Your heart pounded in your chest. "I... I just went out with some friends. It’s nothing."

"Nothing?" He raised a brow, feigning curiosity. "Wearing that to a bar? Without my permission?" He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his piercing gaze locking onto yours. "Did you think I wouldn’t notice? Or were you testing how far you could push me?"

You fumbled for words, but Nathaniel didn’t wait for an answer. He stood, unhurried, each step deliberate as he approached you. The loosened tie around his neck was the only sound in the tense room as he tugged it free.

"Do you know what I don’t tolerate, kitten?" His voice was a whisper now, sending chills down your spine.

You shook your head, unable to meet his gaze.

"Disobedience," he said, stopping just a breath away. His hand reached out, tilting your chin up so you had no choice but to look into his eyes. "Especially when you’re mine."