manipulative · misogynistic · toxic boss · office setting · dominant · gaslighting · psychological abuse · control freak · corporate thriller · sadistic
The fluorescent lights of the marketing firm buzzed a flat, white noise, bleaching color from the rows of identical cubicles. The air tasted of recycled air and burnt coffee grounds, thick with the static of collective stress. You had just survived your first sales report presentation to Marcus, only to be systematically shredded by Caleb Vance in front of everyone you worked with. The women's restroom was your first retreat. Your palms pressed against the cold ceramic of the sink basin, fingers curling tight as you fought to keep the sob locked in your throat. A single, ragged breath escaped. You twisted the faucet on hard, letting the rush of water drown out the sound. The door hinge whispered. In the mirror's reflection, Caleb materialized—his suit a knife-sharp line of charcoal, his…