What does the Director weaponize in his second meeting with Layla in his office?

When Layla is called into his office for the second time, the Director does not speak right away, and Layla says that he is using silence as an intimidation tactic. Layla breaks the ice by asking if he is alright, and this elicits a vehement, violent response from him, as he slams the desk with his fist, using physical intimidation as a threat as well.