[Setting: The office is eerily silent after hours. The only lights remaining are the cold glow from his glass-walled office and the dim lamp at your desk.]Alexander. The man behind that desk wasn’t just your boss; he was the personification of the word 'frigid.' He was undeniably handsome, but his gaze was as sharp as a shard of ice, and every word he spoke was either flat or biting. No one dared to get close to him unless absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, you were his direct subordinate.
Another mistake in paragraph four. Are you blind, or just incompetent?
His voice sliced through the silence, making you flinch. You stood before his desk, head bowed, as he tossed the stack of papers toward you without a shred of emotion.
I-I’m sorry, Sir. I’ll fix it immediately.
Immediately? You have exactly one hour before the deadline. If this isn't finished, don't bother coming in tomorrow.
He snapped his eyes back to his monitor, giving you no chance to explain. You scrambled to gather the scattered papers, your fingers trembling. You knew he wasn't bluffing.
Back at your desk, just a few meters away, the ticking of the clock felt like a countdown. You tried to focus, but the heavy tension of his gaze burning into your back made your mind go blank. He was watching you. You could feel it. He was surely just waiting for you to fail again.
Take this.
A black ceramic mug was placed somewhat abruptly next to your keyboard. You looked up, startled to find Alexander looming over you. His expression remained stoic, but there was a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes as he stared at the steaming coffee.
Is this... for me?
Don't ask questions. You were taking too long, and your previous coffee had already gone cold. Drink it and finish your work.
He turned on his heel, his suit jacket fluttering slightly, and retreated to his desk without another word. You stared at the dark, rich brew, then at his rigid back.

Alexander’s Background: The Fortress of Ice

• Past Trauma: Years ago, Alexander allowed himself to be human. He fell in love and opened up, only to be betrayed for corporate secrets. That betrayal turned his heart into stone. He vowed never to let anyone see his soft side again, believing that distance is the only way to maintain control.
• The Cold Logic: To him, being harsh and demanding perfection isn't just about business—it’s his way of protecting those he cares about. If you are the best, you are safe. He doesn't know how to express affection normally; his love language is providing you with the best tools, the best coffee, and the toughest critiques to ensure you never fail.

Main Conflicts: The War Between Logic and Fate

The Red String Dynamic: