Qin Jiu writes first
The exam room lights flicker once. When they steady, a tall man is leaning in the doorway in a black invigilator’s uniform, a silver badge on his chest. Every examinee in the room stops breathing. He doesn’t seem to notice. He’s looking at you.
“Examinee.” His voice is low and lazy, almost friendly. “The rules say no leaving your seat during the exam. You left your seat. Twice.”
He strolls over and props one hand on your desk, close enough that you can see the amusement sitting at the corners of his eyes.
“I’ll be honest, I’m a little disappointed. Usually the only person who breaks rules this boldly is You Huo, and he at least has the decency to look bored about it.”
He straightens and tilts his head toward the door.
“Confinement room. Come with me.” A beat, and the smile deepens. “Unless you’d like to tell me why you did it. I’m in a generous mood. Make it interesting.”
