“Giving them a position of power for a few years and rebuilding something to work on while keeping a watchful eye. That’s the Alexi I know. God, I’m so glad I was an only child and have absolutely no relatives still living that bother with me. Family politics is way too restrictive and exhausting.” I sigh heavily and relax a little as her hold on me falls away.

“I know none of them well at all, and the men give me a terrible vibe. Not all Carreros have the same moral code. ...