Ardit's offer

Edona was just minding her business when she catches Ari and Ardit from the window. Standing at the edge of the entryway, she presses herself against the wall. The gazebo they were chatting in was not too far away, so she was able to listen clearly.

"Ari, could this mean that you have fallen in love with me?"

"No," says Ari, "impossible. I only obey you because you are my master, but that doesn't mean I... I..." she hesitates a bit, but she does not know why. She turns away from him with shame and anger, "you must be tricking me as you've done with the other slaves. I won't fall for your sweet but empty lies. I refuse."

Ardit got up from his seat and stood over her. He then kneels down and holds her hand, "Ari, my love for you is no lie, and it makes me so happy that you feel this way for me, but I understand your hurt. If you don't want to love me, then I will accept."

"What are you saying?"