Chapter 33

A twisted bargain:

Alice's days dragged on, each more excruciating than the last. Arnold's frequent visits had turned into a living nightmare, as he insulted and abused her, attempting to crush her spirit. The seclusion, uncertainty, and looming menace of his plans for her weighed hard on her mind, and she gradually gave in to his demands. One day, while she sat in her dimly lit chamber, the door swung open and Arnold stepped in, his expression unreadable. Alice tensedopen, prepared herself for another round of agony, but to her astonishment, his remarks were devoid of venom. "My dear," he began, his tone unexpectedly soft, "I have an offer for you." Alice looked at him suspiciously, her heart beating in her chest. "What kind of an offer?" she inquired, her voice barely above a whisper. "If you agree to bear my children," Arnold went on to say, "I will cease the daily torment and grant you certain privileges." Alice could feel her breath seize in her throat. The idea of carrying his c