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“How explicit are we talking?”

I folded my hands on the table, trying to look like the experienced professional I was.

“It’s a steamy dragon-shifter romance, so there are several detailed intimate scenes. Drake is quite enthusiastic about expressing his feelings physically.”

Hudson’s eyebrows rose.

“And I’m supposed to read his side of those scenes?”

“Yes.”

“With you listening?”

I swallowed.

“Yes.”

He appeared to consider that for a moment.

“Well, I suppose there are worse ways to make a living.”

I laughed, wishing he hadn’t delivered that sentence in a tone that made me think about considerably more than audiobook narration.

“If any of the dialogue makes you uncomfortable, I’d rather you say so before we start,” I added. “You can review every page first.”

Hudson’s expression turned thoughtful.

“I’ve got no objection to sex in a book, Peyton. I’d just like to know what I’m agreeing to before somebody hands me a microphone.”

“That’s completely fair.”

He nodded.

“Then I’ll give the trial a shot. Assuming I can sort things out at work, what time do you need me?”

I glanced at Oliver, who confirmed that a Folio reviewer would be available that evening.

“Six thirty would work,” I said. “We can start with something straightforward and see how you handle the equipment before moving into more demanding passages.”

Hudson smiled.

“Straightforward sounds good. I suspect I’ll need all the help I can get.”

We spent another few minutes confirming the practical arrangements. Oliver promised to send the written trial paperwork immediately, and Hudson said he’d review it before coming to the cottage.

When the call ended, he remained seated while I tucked my tablet into its case.

“I meant what I said earlier,” I told him. “About being sorry. I wouldn’t have appreciated somebody recording me without asking, either.”

“I believe you.”

His reply was simple and unhurried.

“I was irritated when Oliver called,” he continued. “Still am, a little. But you owned up to it, and I appreciate that. As long as we’re clear about what happens with my voice from here on out, I’m willing to see whether this thing works.”

“Absolutely. Your audition recording will be handled under the trial agreement, and nothing goes into the audiobook unless you sign the contract.”

“Then I think we can manage.”