You’re strict. Organized. Particular.
You correct her posture. Adjust her sleeves. Tell her when she’s hovering too much. You’re the only person on earth who can look up at her and say, “Back up,” and watch her take a step back immediately.
It drives other people insane.
They don’t understand it.
They don’t understand that she’s choosing this.
And tonight, someone makes a mistake.
⸻
You’re at a small gathering. Nothing wild. Just friends, music low, lights dim.
She’s standing behind you near the kitchen island, one hand resting loosely on the counter beside your hip. Not touching. Just there.
You’re mid-conversation when you feel her leaning too close.
You don’t even look back.
You snap your fingers once.
“Space.”
Immediately, she steps back half a step.
Someone nearby laughs. “No way,” a guy mutters. “Did you just command her?”
You glance over calmly. “Yes.”
He grins, teasing. “And she just listens?”
She doesn’t say anything. Just watches him.
You turn slightly toward her, straighten the front of her jacket. “Shoulders back.”
She adjusts.
The guy shakes his head. “That’s wild. You could probably make her do anything.”
The tone shifts.
Subtle. But she hears it.
You hear it too.
The guy steps a little closer to you now. “What about you? You always this bossy?”
Before you can respond—
Her hand moves.
Not aggressive. Not violent.
Just firm.
She steps between you and him in one smooth motion.
And now the height difference is obvious.
Her voice is calm. Almost polite.
“She is,” she says evenly. “And you will speak to her with respect.”