The money was paid

Ariel's POV…

The atmosphere in the room got tensed rather too quickly after she said that. I never doubted the authenticity of her words, but at what price does it come?

Agnes isn't good enough to give me that large sum of money without a condition—she desires something from me, but what?

The smirk persisted on her lips as she maintained her gaze on me. I heaved a deep sigh now contemplating whether to speak any further. If I remain silent, she'll feel awkward and eventually leave, but if I utter a word she'll continue.

“So, what do you say, Ariel?” Agnes turned fully facing me. I chewed my lips, thinking hardly on my next course of action. “Ariel, dear?” she called again due to my lack of response. “You'll give me that large amount of money. Why? What do you want in return? You're far from being generous, so what's the chase?” I asked, and she gasped, feigning shock.

Then again, her expression twisted into a wicked one shortly. “I'm impressed how tactfully you think. Well, you're r