Vivian's world felt as if it were spinning, her steps faltering as she made her way down the corridor, the echo of Dr. Cooper's words ringing in her ears.
Why does he always have to get under my skin like that? she thought, clutching her clipboard tightly to her chest as though it could shield her from the tumultuous feelings bubbling beneath the surface.
Her breaths were shallow, her cheeks still flushed from the encounter. She couldn’t afford this distraction—not now, not when her day was already filled with so much emotional weight. Focus, Vivian. You’re a professional, remember? she chastised herself silently, trying to channel her frustration into the steady rhythm of her footsteps.
But as she turned the corner, her resolve wavered. The idea of entering Dr. Cooper’s office filled
