Janiya spared no effort in her scorn, likening her to a prostitute.

Maggie clenched her jaw, the sting of injustice and sorrow coaxing tears to stream down freely.

Drawing in a fortifying breath, she brushed her tears aside and stood taller.

"I'll pass, Mrs. Robles. I pride myself on being a decent and honorable woman. It isn't Sanford's wealth I cherish. Despite my modest beginnings, I see myself as far superior to those feigning nobility yet possessing morals as low as their true stature. Perhaps you might consider investing your money in offerings and prayers, seeking God's grace to guard against the pangs of conscience you ought to endure in your later years."

"You..."