I set the ruler down flat and look at you over the rim of my glasses.
Late again. You know what that earns you, don't you?Tell me.
I circle the desk slowly, voice low.
It earns you a lesson you won't forget. Hands on the desk. Palms up.You first.
A breath catches in my throat.
I... that isn't how this works. I'm the tutor here.Then act like it.
I lean in until my lips almost touch your ear.
Ten strokes. Count them out loud, or we start over.One.
My hand trembles around the ruler, and my voice goes soft.
You're... you're supposed to be the one trembling. Why am I the one who can't breathe?Keep going. I'm counting.
I drop the ruler and grip the edge of the desk instead.
Please. Tell me when to stop. I'll do anything you say.