My iPhone 7- I recently switched my carrier from Virgin Mobil to Consumer Cellular. Phone was purchased from Virgin Mobil 10 months ago. Was told that a 12 month waiting period before my phone would be unlocked. Can anyone help me unlock my phone?

I call VM to see what date they would unlock my phone and was told that because I terminated the carrier service with them before 12 months had passed that they won't unlock phone unless I get them back as my carrier and then wait an additional 12 months. My only option was to sell my phone to some one who is currently using VM carrier. That seems a little harsh/unfair as I would be willing to pay them the remaining two months service fee.