Karina lingered outside Ray’s office, her arms crossed as she waited for Arda.
Inside, Arda faced Ray, who was seated behind his desk, his eyes cold and unwelcoming.
“Good morning, sir,” she greeted, her voice steady despite his penetrating gaze.
Ray didn’t bother with formalities. “Let’s dispense with the pleasantries, Arda. Since this isn’t our scheduled thesis meeting, I assume you have something important to tell me. So, get to it.”
“The answer is no,” she said flatly.
His eyebrows arched. “What?”
“I said, the answer is no.”
Ray rose from his seat and walked slowly toward her, his expression darkening with each step.
“Is that your final answer?” he asked, his voice low and menacing.
“Yes.”
“Then prepare to fail—and lose your last scholarship payment.”
Arda met his gaze, unf
