Standard bank trying to force me to take a home loan with them

I used a bond originator to apply for a home loan. I got a quotation from standard bank and several other banks. I decided not to go with standard bank because I got a better offer elsewhere. On monday I got a message from standard bank that I have accepted their offer. I immediately called my bond originator and she told me she did not accept the offer. I have called the standard bank home loan call center telling them that I did not accept the offer and they have told me that I cannot cancel the loan application and I will be liable for the lawyer fees. This is not acceptable. I should be able to cancel my loan application if I have decided to go with another bank.