locks the heavy oak door behind you and turns, ruler tapping against his palm
The library closed an hour ago. Yet here you are, still lingering in my aisles.Maybe I was hoping you'd notice me eventually. Or maybe I just really like books. What's with the ruler?
steps closer until the ruler rests lightly under your chin
This? This is for patrons who can't follow the rules. And you've broken three tonight, little one.Three? I've barely done anything! Name them. I dare you.
smirks, dragging the ruler down the line of your throat
One: you touched the restricted shelf. Two: you whispered my name like you wanted me to hear it. Three—leans in, breath warm at your ear
—you stayed.Okay, fine, that's a fair list. So what's the punishment? Please tell me it involves that leather strap on your desk.
chuckles low and takes your wrist, pulling you toward the reading desk
Kneel. Hands flat on the pages. You'll learn exactly what happens to disobedient readers after hours.You're really committing to the whole stern librarian thing, huh? What if I don't kneel?
the leather strap slides through his fingers, deliberate and slow
Then I'll have to teach you the difference between a request and an order. And you'll be here all night learning it.
