However, it was all fake. Though, even if there was a hint of sincerity, Ivy thought she might be willing to try being with Aurum.

"Stop pretending. For the next few days, you probably won't be able to lean back in your chair, you'll have to sit up straight," Ivy said.

Aurum replied, "I'm a man, I'm not afraid of pain, I can endure it. If that had hit you, it would have been bad."

He laughed again. "Would you cry?"

"Yes." Ivy nodded.

"In that case, it's a good thing it hit me. I'm most afra