The noose tightens the longer the pause drags out.
“However,” he says at last, “perception matters in educational leadership roles. Especially for faculty and adjacent members who stand out.”
“Stand out,” I repeat, the words flat.
“Your size alone draws attention,” Carson confirms, a thread of concern failing to touch his cold eyes. “Combine that with your work with Quinn, your committee seats, your substitute teaching… You stand in a very particular spotlight.”
A spotlight he forced me into.
He straightens from the desk, moving to circle behind me. My muscles clench with the effort not to turn, not to track him as he passes beyond my peripheral vision. His footsteps stop behind me, and he bends closer.
“When an Omega in your position acts with restraint, it reflects well on everyone,” he murmurs, his breath stirring the hair at the nape of my neck. “When an Omega in your position displays…promiscuity…questions arise.”
The room tilts around me, and only years of training keep me from showing how his words affect me.
Carson moves back into view. “The winter break begins soon. Have you considered how you’ll be spending it?”
My fingers curl into my palms, nails biting half-moons into the flesh. “The Wright Pack has invited me to join them at the Homestead.”
I don’t mention Emily and Jared’s invitation to spend a quieter holiday at the cottage.
“You’re quite close with the Wrights.” Carson turns to study me. “Have you told them what happened at Westbrook?”
The implication settles between us. With the right phrasing, he could recast me as violent. Or promiscuous.
Would it matter that Emily is their friend? Or would it damn me in their view? If we were courting…
But I had avoided the formality because Carson would find out and retaliate against Quinn, as he’s alluded to in the past and again tonight.
“I’m sure the Wrights called Westbrook to check my referrals before hiring me,” I say, forcing the words past the lump in my throat.
Carson hums noncommittally before he steps forward without warning. His hand rises to my shoulder, fingers brushing down my sleeve to smooth an imaginary wrinkle. The gesture appears helpful to anyone who might peek through the office window. To me, it burns with possession, with the message that my body exists within his reach whenever he chooses.
“Your coat is collecting lint.” His fingers linger on my cuff. “Navy blue shows everything, doesn’t it?”
I remain stone still under his touch, not pulling away, not acknowledging the boundary violation. Years of experience have taught me that hewantsmy discomfort, my resistance, and any crack in my professional veneer gives him purchase.
“An Omega’s composure reflects on the institution they represent,” Carson continues, stepping back. “In these smaller communities, personal choices become public knowledge so much faster than in big cities. When those boundaries blur, questions arise.”
The wall clock reads eight fifty-two. Almost an hour and a half since Carson stopped me in the hallway. More than an hour of my life spent in this psychological chess match while Emily waits, dinner growing cold, her messages unanswered.
“I’ve always maintained professional boundaries,” I say, the words coming out stiffer than intended.
Carson’s lips curve in what might pass for a smile on someone capable of warmth. “Of course you have. Your discretion at Westbrook was admirable, even under…difficult circumstances.”
I keep my mouth shut. Nothing I say will help my current situation.
“Which is why I value these conversations,” Carson continues. “Your insight into the accommodation policies has been instrumental. Your attention to detail is remarkable.” He taps his fingers on the desk.One, two, three.“I wouldn’t want anything to distract from the good work you’re doing here.”
“I understand,” I grit out.
“That’s good. You’ve always been quick to pick up on corrective behavior.” Carson looks at the clock. “Oh, my. Time has gotten away from us.”
“Yes,” I manage to say through stiff lips. “It’s quite late.”
He stands, smoothing his pressed slacks. “Thank you for your time, Leif. Your dedication to Pinecrest Academy continues to impress.”
As I collect my bag with numb fingers and turn toward the door, a thought forms with crystal clarity. The more I build with Emily, the more I open my life to Carson’s interference.