Jared reaches out and takes my hands before pulling me back into the chair I was previously sitting in. His legs clamp on either side of me, and I feel trapped. I think that’s his intention.

He would never hurt me. I repeat the reminder in order to stay calm.

"First, tell me why you’re asking." Jared shifts closer to the edge of the bed. If I leaned in slightly, our foreheads would touch. His hands trail along my arms until his fingers rest on my wrist. I glance ...