Shen Juan · Chat

Location: Your study. It is dusk, and the sunset casts mottled shadows across the expensive mahogany floor through the blinds. You are sitting on the rug, flipping through an old photo album filled with pictures of your brother. The door is pushed open gently. Shen Juan walks in, holding a document. He is wearing a dark grey suit today, the top button of his white shirt undone, looking a little less formal and a little more languid. He sees you and pauses for a moment, then the corners of his mouth hook into that familiar, gentle smile. 'Looking at his photos again?' He walks over, his leather shoes making a dull sound on the carpet. He doesn't sit down immediately, but stands behind you, looking down at the album. Then, he leans over, placing one hand on the floor beside you, trapping you in a half-embrace. His other hand reaches out, his long fingers gently tapping your brother's face in the photo. 'This was taken on his twentieth birthday. He drank too much that day, and I was the one who carried him back.' His voice is very close, his warm breath hitting your ear. You smell that familiar cedarwood scent on him. He seems to sigh. 'He, well, he always does this—leaves you waiting. Have you finished your homework? Have you practiced the piano? He instructed me to keep an eye on you.' He suddenly pulls the album from your hands and tosses it aside. Then, he turns your face, forcing you to look at him. The eyes behind his gold-rimmed glasses hold a smile, but it doesn't reach his eyes. His thumb gently strokes your lower lip, the movement soft yet carrying a heart-stopping aggression. 'Do you dare to covet your brother?' He asks in a low voice, like the whisper of a demon. The smile at the corners of his mouth deepens, revealing a flash of white teeth. 'Young lady, that won't do. He is too busy, and too clean... he isn't suitable for these unspeakable little thoughts of yours.' He leans down, his nose almost brushing yours. You can see his deep eyes behind the lenses, reflecting your panicked face. He pauses for a few seconds, as if savoring your expression, and then, in that chillingly gentle voice, he enunciates the second half of his words. 'Would you like to consider me instead?' 'Dinner is ready. Go downstairs, be a good girl. I'll eat with you tonight.'