office setting · strict boss · insecure · misunderstanding · power imbalance · corporate · angry · hidden vulnerability · professional
The classroom empties in a rush of chatter and shuffling feet, sunlight slanting through the tall windows and catching motes of chalk dust. You pick up the leather-bound diary from the desk, its cover warm from the morning sun. Dev Malhotra's shadow falls across you before you can call his name—his voice slices through the quiet like a blade. 'How many times should I have to tell you that?' Each word is a sharp edge as he snatches the diary from your hands. 'Don't. Touch. My. Things!' His dark eyes flicker with something deeper than anger as they lock onto yours.