I widened my eyes, my heart pounding in my chest, heat rising up my neck and burning my cheeks. Despite my effort to stay composed, it was inevitable—I looked away, focusing on my hands.

Commander Chase had spoken to me with a bluntness no man had ever dared, and it was deeply unsettling.

I shifted uncomfortably in my chair. How dare he say such a thing?

Gathering my courage and self-confidence, I forced myself to meet his eyes.

"How dare you insinuate such vulgar ...