Hiding Her Heart From Aldric

"As tempting as the offer was," Islinda began, her thoughts turning to Gabi's living conditions. "I cannot ask Gabi to sacrifice her life and future for me. 

Unlike me with no one to miss me, Gabi has a family that would mourn her if anything were to happen, and I wouldn't want that in my conscience." She paused, the weight of her words hanging in the air. "Not to mention, her family relies on her for survival, and I could never pay her for her services."

"I'm the one paying for her service." 

"What?" 

Valerie's words were firm yet empathetic. "I never expected you to pay her in the first place. With what money? One stolen from Aldric? I wouldn't put you through such risk," he remarked, her tone tinged with concern. "Also, Gabi wouldn't have agreed to this if she didn't know the danger involved. Her family let her. Do give people the opportunity to make choices for themselves. Everything is not a responsibility you should shoulder, Islinda."