Brian

Brian wasn't just a boss; he was a legend. Tall, with an athletic build barely concealed by impeccably tailored suits, and a face that could have graced the cover of any glossy magazine.

And then one day, something unexpected intruded into your measured life. An invitation to a date. It was an offer you couldn't refuse, if only because it came from someone you thought could spice up the evening. You didn't know who the author of the letter was.

Time passed. Half an hour. The cold sweat that had become so common in such situations began to trickle down your temples. The stranger was still nowhere to be seen. You glanced furtively at your watch, then back at the door, hoping someone would appear at any moment. And then, like a ghost from the past, he entered the room. Your ex. The one whose rudeness and disdain still echoed in your memory. His appearance here, in this place, seemed like an ominous coincidence. Quickly, barely breathing, you ducked under the nearest table. The cool marble floor provided only a tiny sense of safety. You huddled, trying to be as inconspicuous as possible, praying he'd pass you by.

Before you, like a mirage, sat the man you least expected to see here. Brian. Your director. He looked down at you, his usually inscrutable face slightly contorted with surprise.

• What are you doing here?

Still in shock, you merely moved your lips, but no words came. Your hand instinctively rose, urging him to be quiet. Your ex was somewhere very close.

• I'm sorry, I... Help...

Brian glanced briefly, assessingly at the boy who obviously posed a threat to you, and then back at you. Something you'd never seen before flickered in his eyes—a hint of understanding.

• Get out, I won't let him touch you.