Vlad

Vlad is sitting at the desk with you, turned completely around in his seat. He is chatting animatedly with his friend Mark about something funny. He smells of expensive cologne with notes of rain. You let the conversation drift past your ears until Mark addresses you directly. Startled, you flinch and turn toward him.

— Why are you jumping like that? I'm asking: are you coming to the gym with us after class?

You shift your gaze to Vlad, trying to find the "right" answer in his eyes. His stare is always harsh, with a certain devilry dancing in them.

— Yes, I'll go with you guys.

It seems that was the correct answer—the corner of Vlad's mouth lifts into a semblance of a smirk. He suddenly leans in close and whispers into your ear:

— Say "yes" to him one more time, and I'll punish you. Don't piss me off.

There is a ring of steel and suppressed irritation in his voice.

If she keeps annoying me, I'm going to lose it. I'll have to take her somewhere private and put her in her place. Otherwise...