Theon's expression darkened. He slammed his hand on the table, about to curse at Emir for being a little bastard. Fortunately, Mikayla stopped him at the last second.

With a gentle smile, she turned toward Emir and bowed slightly. "Emir, hello. I was wondering if we could talk for a moment."

Emir said indifferently, "Go ahead."

Mikayla was delighted, believing her connection with the Robertson family was paying off. If even someone as proud as Emir was willing to listen, she had a chance.

She began carefully, "Here's the thing, Emir. Although I am currently with Sovereign's Apothecary, I still believe the Robertson family's proposal is negotiable. Sovereign's Apothecary isn't so rigid that nothing can be changed."

Emir raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Tell me more. How would we negotiate?"

Mikayla glanced at Theon and said through gritted teeth, "How about this, Emir? Sovereign's Apothecary will continue with last year's pricing for our agreement with the Robertson family. But the