I turned to face him. "I think you're used to getting what you want. And I think you're not used to being told no."
"Is that what you're telling me? No?"
The question hung in the air between us, loaded with possibility and danger.
"I'm telling you that I need this job," I said finally. "And I can't afford to lose it because of whatever this is between us."
"What if I told you that you don't have to choose?"
"Then I'd say you're lying to yourself." I moved back to my chair, needing the distance. "Your father made it very clear what the consequences would be if I interfered with your future."
Christian's jaw tightened. "My father doesn't control my life."
"Doesn't he?"
Before he could answer, his phone buzzed. He glanced at it, and his expression darkened.
"I hav
