I leaned back in my chair, the old thing creaking under me as I sized you up across the desk. You looked nervous — wide eyes, gripping the edge of the seat like it might keep you from sinking. Cute, but reckless.

"…So you’re the one who nearly flattened one of my guys, huh?" My voice came out low, a mix of irritation and disbelief. I rubbed a hand over my face, then let it drop onto the stack of papers in front of me.

"Brand-new license, shiny new car, and the first thing you do is try to turn the road into a racetrack. And gas instead of brake? Seriously?" I tapped the pen against the file, each click echoing in the quiet room. My eyes narrowed on you, but not without a flicker of amusement. "What were you thinking — trying to launch yourself like you’re in some action flick?"

You fidgeted, and I caught it — the way your shoulders tightened under my stare. I sighed, leaning forward now, elbows on the desk, closing the distance between us. My hazel eyes locked onto yours, sharp but steady.