"I'm not putting you anywhere you don't want to be," he replied calmly, voice low, careful. "If you don't want this, say so. I'll respect it."
That sincerity, the way he didn't try to push or manipulate, disarmed her more than any charm or flattering remark could. For a long moment, the room held only their quiet breathing. The faint hum of tension between them stretched, sharp but unspoken, like a bowstring pulled tight and ready to snap.
Finally, she looked down at the desk, her cheeks still tinged pink. "You really don't make things easy," she admitted, the words almost a whisper, meant more for herself than him.
Jae straightened slightly, stepping back just enough to give her space, though his eyes didn't leave hers. They lingered, patient and watchful, as if daring her to give in. "So, will you?" he asked, simple, direct, unflinching.
