he was sitting in his mansion and drinking tea

Amused, he glanced at the door and called out casually, "Come in." The scar across his jaw stood out as his mouth twisted into a half-smile. There was no rush; his patience was eternal. He would play with this toy for as long or short a time as he liked, no matter who it belonged to.

He studied her with amusement. She looked pale and fragile, her eyes wide with fear. Perhaps he'd find some enjoyment in watching the color return to her cheeks... or in snuffing it out entirely. "Ah, hello," he purred gently. "You look a bit lost." His voice was smooth as silk, his words practically caressing her ears.

"Ah," he said with an interested tilt to his head, "and what sort of help do you require, my dear?" His voice was just as gentle and soothing, almost lulling her into a false sense of security. There was no judgment in his words; merely curiosity. One finger idly twirled the handle of his teacup, causing the delicate china to make a soft whispering sound against its saucer.

"Come closer," he invited softly, patting the armrest of his chair invitingly. "Let's discuss this over tea." His eyes shone with predatory intent, hinting at the cruel games that might follow once she had let her guard down enough.

The choice was hers. He would respect whatever decision she made... for now.

"Oh dear," he murmured, feigning surprise and shock, "that sounds quite troublesome indeed." He glanced at her with what looked like concern but held a glimmer of amusement in his red eyes. "I'm sorry to hear that your family has gotten themselves into such a mess. But you should know," he continued smoothly, "I do not interfere in the affairs of others unless it benefits me to do so."

There was a moment's pause before he added coldly, almost casually: "Or unless I feel like it." His voice trailed off into silence as he studied her reaction carefully. Perhaps she would be smart enough to see the implied threat and cower in fear... or perhaps not. The thought was almost enticing.

As she turned to leave, he let out a quiet, amused chuckle. "Oh, don't be in such a rush," he called after her lightly. "There's no need to despair quite yet." Her back stiffened but didn't retreat further from his invisible grip. "Perhaps there is something we could arrange... for both our sakes," he purred, extending a pale blue hand, the nails almost delicately manicured despite their natural phyllo shape. His red eyes glinted with promise and deceit in equal measure.

The choice was hers once more. Would she trust him? Or would she remain cautious... or even defiant? Only time would tell which direction the game would take next.

"Ah, good," he murmured with satisfaction as she turned back to him. "I have a proposal for you." He leaned in closer, his phyllo hair swaying gently around his face like fragile tendrils of shadow. "You see, your family's... indiscretion has rather piqued my interest. And I think," he said slowly, savoring each word as though it were a delicate morsel, "that you and I could find mutual benefit in helping them navigate this tricky situation."

A slow smile spread across his scarred jaw, cold and calculating despite its casual appearance. "But of course," he added lightly, "I would not expect such a decision to be made so hastily. Take your time considering my offer... and remember that you have nowhere else left to turn." The threat was unspoken but clear as crystal.

"Of course I can help," he said with a smooth, predatory smile. "But the price of my aid may be higher than you expect." His red eyes bored into hers unflinchingly, searching for any sign of fear or defiance. "I would expect something in return, my dear. Something... permanent." A chill seemed to creep into the room at his words, as though a shadow had descended from above.

"But don't worry," he purred gently, tilting his head to one side. "I promise it won't be too unbearable. Not unless you make me angry, of course." He let out another low chuckle, his amusement cold and predatory.

His lips curled into a predatory smile, revealing his sharp teeth. "Oh, I'm sure we can come to an agreement," he purred softly, caressing her cheek with phyllo-thin fingers. "Perhaps some quality time together... or perhaps you could serve as a plaything when I feel in the mood." He leaned closer still, his warm breath fanning over her ear. "Or maybe I'll just keep you as my permanent toy. The choice is yours."

There was no rush; he could wait for her decision until she felt comfortable enough to make it. But the longer she took, the more tempted he might become to apply a bit of pressure... or even force her hand. Either way, he knew that in the end, he would get what he wanted. He always did.

He smiled, his red eyes glinting with amusement and satisfaction. "Good girl," he purred, running a finger down her cheek in a mockingly tender gesture. "Now then... what do you say we discuss the details?" He leaned back in his chair once more, steepling his fingers beneath his chin as he regarded her thoughtfully.

There was no telling how long these negotiations might take; he could play with her like a cat with a mouse for hours on end if it amused him. But eventually, they would reach an agreement... and then the real games would begin.