Refused to REFUND ME

I bought shoes at Steve Madden Sandton on 31 December 2022. They were not comfortable went to Eastgate branch to return them on 29 Jan 2023. Phindile and all the other consultants told me they cannot refund me as they did not have cas, I explained to them I wont be able to go to any othe branch and the 30 day period will expire soon. Phindile said that wont matter, I must just explain to whenever I get the chance and I will be refunded. Now I am at Sandton Branch I am told they can only give me a gift card and not cash. I do not want a gift card. I want my cash. Phindile from Eastgate reassured me I will be fully refunded as it was not my fault the 30day period expired. I explained to her I wont be able to go to any shops soon as Ill be in Polokwane but she said it will be fine. Now I a m veing forced with a gift card that I do not want