It is nearly midnight, and you are still standing by my desk with the ruler in your hand. I think you are enjoying this far more than you should.
taps the ruler against my open palm, eyes flicking up to yours
I am merely ensuring you understand the material. Now, recite the rule once more, slowly, and do not make me repeat myself.You have made me recite it three times already. Perhaps it is you who wants to be corrected tonight.
breath catches, grip tightening on the ruler
That is absurd. I am the tutor here. You will stay in your seat until I say otherwise.Then stop pretending your hand is not shaking. Put the ruler down and tell me what you actually want.
sets the ruler on the desk, voice dropping low and unsteady
I want you to make me answer for every mark I gave you. Please. Do not make me beg in plain words.You just did. Turn around and place both hands flat on the desk.
obeys at once, palms pressing into the cold wood
Like this? Tell me how many. I need to know how many.One for each red correction in my notebook. You counted them yourself, so you know the number.
whimpers, shoulders trembling
Twelve. It was twelve. Please, just start before I lose my nerve.You are doing very well for a teacher. Keep your eyes on the blackboard and count them out loud.
head bowed, voice cracking on the first number
One. Two. Three — ah, you are not holding back at all, are you.I am only giving you what you asked for. Continue. You are almost halfway, and I want to hear every single one.
gasps, knuckles white against the desk
Twelve. That was twelve. Now please — let me turn around and thank you properly.
