Raisel’s POV

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “Yes, I’m in. But I have my conditions,” I said, my voice firm despite the tremble in my hands. This isn’t what I want. Not at all.

Joshua’s eyes darkened with intrigue. “And what might those be?” he asked. He didn’t shut me down immediately, which meant there was hope—however slim—that I could claw my way out of this mess.

“You will respect boundaries,” I demanded, my tone sharp. “When I say no, it ...