Chapter 131

Earl's eyes widened in disbelief. "You... want me to kneel?"

"I told you there'd be consequences for demanding me to kneel," Frederick replied, his voice glacial.

Earl's jaw clenched. His glare was searing. "Do you understand the name I bear? I am a Monroe! Have you considered the repercussions?"

Vivianne tugged Frederick's sleeve. "Frederick, perhaps reconsider..."

Although Frederick was a lifesaver to the Monroe family head, the Monroe family valued honor above all. This humiliation would invite not just resentment, but potential retaliation.

Frederick shook his head. "He crossed my line. This is his own doing."

Understanding the futility of further defiance, Earl shifted tactics.

He said softly, "Young man, I misjudged you. Please accept my apology. If I truly kneel on behalf of the Monroe family, it won't bode well for you either."

Earl was cunning and shrewd. He began with a deferential bow and addressed Frederick as a "young man,". It was a seemingly respectful shift.