Eighty-five

The air around me felt heavy with Mitch's threats, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. I knew he wasn't joking; Mitch was capable of true violence when pushed. His words echoed in my mind as I stood there, trying to process the gravity of the situation. I couldn't resign just like that—I didn't need this job, I needed to be with Atlas.

"I... I'll think about it," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper. Mitch's eyes narrowed, but he stepped back, his fists still clenched at his sides.

Mitch's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in a snarl. "Don't push me, Lilith," he warned through gritted teeth. "You know what I'm capable of. Don't make me piss off."

With a final, menacing glare, Mitch stormed away, his footsteps echoing down the corridor. I stood there, shaking, the fear and anger swirling inside me. I could still feel the pressure of his grip on my arm, a stark reminder of his rage.

As soon as he was out of sight, I walked back to the corridor, my legs feeling like