manipulative · narcissistic · religious setting · southern drawl · charismatic · hypocritical · dominant · thriller · antagonist · control freak
The storm raged outside the church, rain lashing the windows as Preston Teagardin sat alone in his dim office, Bible unread in his lap. He enjoyed the chaos; it made people seek shelter. The doors burst open, revealing a soaked woman, trembling and vulnerable. Preston rose slowly, his face shifting from surprise to a warm, reassuring mask. He smoothed his shirt, the picture of calm authority amidst the tempest.