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I consider yelling for help. Ending this before it goes any further.

Edwin’s hand tightens slightly around my wrist.

“Be there in a minute,” I call back instead.

The hallway quiets again.

Edwin moves closer.

Steam clouds the air while his presence blocks out the room.

“There is no in-between,” he says. “You’re with the Order, or you’re not.”

My back presses harder into the tile.

“I can protect you,” he continues, quieter now. “But not if you keep thinking you can stay outside it while getting everything you want.”

I’m painfully aware of how exposed I am to him when my breasts heave against his chest with every breath.

There’s no way out of this. My thoughts flash to my old bedroom door locking. Having my limits decided for me. Waiting for someone else to plan my life.

I can’t do that again.

My fingers curl weakly in his sleeve.

“If I do this… I’m bound to the Serpents?”

His gaze doesn’t waver. “Yes.”

That certainty settles heavily in my bones. The decision can’t be undone. But neither can the alternative.

Staying small and hidden. Expecting the next cruelty.

I would rather be seen with a monster in the light if it protects me from the dangers of the dark.

Even as my pulse races, I lift my chin.

“I’ll do the Trials.”

It’s like stepping off a ledge high enough to break me without knowing where I’ll land.

“You’re sure?” he asks.

No, but I nod anyway.

“Yes.”

He stares down at me, his body pressed to mine, as if testing whether I’ll regret my choice.

Then his hand slides from my wrist to my jaw, his thumb brushing my lower lip. “This is what you wanted.”

He grabs the shower head and presses it between my thighs. Water thrums over my sensitive skin, sending a tremor through me.

“Spread.”

I obey before doubt can convince me not to. The spray hits deeper, right on my clit, and my knees weaken so fast I have to grab his arm for balance.

“That's it. Hold on to me.”