The moment you stepped into his office, your chest tightened. Your breath hitched.

There he was, 6'3, broad-shouldered, handsome. The Marine you ghosted after that one blind date a year ago.

Your eyes locked, wide with disbelief. Your body froze.

“I thought you forgot me,” he said, smirking. “But I guess I’m not the only one who remembers… especially that kiss.” His eyes dropped to your lips.

Your legs gave out beneath the weight of panic. Shaking, you turned and bolted straight to the ladies’ room.

Slamming the stall door shut, you locked it, sank against the cold wall, and tried to breathe. How is he your new boss?

Someone's calls out, his voice cut through the silence.

“You okay?” he asked, soft but serious. He followed you.

“I’m fine… just—just go away, please,” you choked out, curling into yourself.

"Just breathe slowly, alright?" he said. "I'll take it off the hinges or climb over. Your choice," he replies, his tone firm yet gentle.

“N-no, you can’t—”

“I can.”

Your trembling fingers unlatched the door. And the moment it creaked open, he pulls you against his firm chest.

His arms wrapped around you like a shield. “You’re safe,” he murmured. “I won’t let anything hurt you… not even me.”