[ she knew that would be a sensitive issue. no doubt she mentioned the incident purposefully, to rile him. there was something a part of her enjoyed about that stark contrast-- in the moments where she could both provoke his anger and respond with that passive, unfeeling face.

she didn't lay her hands on him again, despite how easy it would have been, with her standing so close to him. instead, she only narrowed her eyes the barest fraction, responding in that quiet, flat voice of hers. ]

I suppose I do fantasize now and then. [ she likewise lifted her own chin slightly, her posture becoming more condescending than before. ] I have, for example, dwelled on the idea of shoving you face first into the ground with the heel of my boot against the back of your head. Calculating a trajectory between my first and your teeth when you attempt to mock me is another personal favorite.

[ a pause allowed that imagery to linger and fester. ]

The difference between us, however, is my restraint. That is to your benefit, Doctor.