Sylvia's mind raced, her desperation warring with her pride. The thought of becoming a mere servant, a bed-warming maid, was unbearable. But her family's survival depended on her. She had no other choice.
She gritted her teeth, her eyes burning with unshed tears. "No, Aric. I won't become your maid."
Aric's smirk faltered slightly, replaced by a look of mild surprise. "Oh? Suddenly you have a backbone? How interesting."
Sylvia's voice trembled, but she stood her ground. "I came here to seek an alliance, not to be humiliated. If you refuse, then so be it. But I won't degrade myself for you."
Aric's expression turned cold, his eyes narrowing. "You think you have a choice? You think you can waltz in here and demand anything from me after betraying me for Jarod? You have no power here, Sylvia."
Sylvia's fists clenched at her sides. "I made mistakes, but I won't grovel for you. My family's honor means more to me than that."
