Dissent in the Ivory Tower
For years, Norman Carter has been content to toil in relative obscurity as a diligent office assistant, his life a carefully structured routine. But all that changes the day he crosses paths with Simon Heath, the charismatic president of his company.
At first, Simon's unexpected kindness and attention seem like a blessing. The lavish gifts, the extra attention from a superior - Norman tells himself he's imagining the subtle undercurrents, that he's simply unused to such generosity from a superior.
Yet as Simon's presence in Norman's life grows, so too does the younger man's creeping unease. The way the younger man seems to anticipate his every need, the unsettling intensity that sometimes flickers in his gaze - it all sets off alarm bells that Norman struggles to silence.
Trapped between his growing dread and Simon's unrelenting kindness, Norman finds himself questioning everything. Are his suspicions justified, or is he simply misreading harmless actions through the warped lens of his own insecurities?
As Norman is drawn deeper into Simon's gilded world, the line between reality and imagination begins to blur. What truly is the machinations of Simon, and what isn't? The more he tries to uncover the truth, the more he finds himself ensnared in a web of his own making.
Will Norman find the courage to confront his fears, or will he fall victim to the danger that may be hiding in plain sight?"
Trigger Warnings:
Themes of obsession, stalking, and psychological manipulation
Descriptions of unease, paranoia, and feelings of being trapped/unsafe
Imbalance of power dynamics in a workplace/professional relationship
Subtle emotional/psychological abuse and gaslighting
Alcohol use
References to financial insecurity and personal loss
Stalker to Lover trope
This story explores complex themes of trust, power, and the blurred lines between perception and reality. Readers sensitive to narratives involving stalking behaviors, coercive control, or the exploitation of vulnerabilities may find some scenes unsettling or triggering. Discretion is advised.
