Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Name it."
"Professional boundaries are still non-negotiable. If this is going to work, I need to know that we can still function as colleagues, as equals. I won't let you use your position to manipulate me."
He leaned against the desk, the faintest trace of admiration in his eyes. "You're more than capable of standing your ground, Sophia. I respect that."
Sophia didn't back down. "Good. Because I'm not some woman you can charm into anything. I have a career here, and I'm not about to let anything jeopardize it."
Ethan's lips curved into a smile—one that hinted at approval, and maybe something more. "I never thought you were."