"I don't know if you're genuinely on my side or just trying to placate me with lies," Aurum said.

He walked over to her and gently took her wrist. "Look how thin you've become. Why aren't you eating? What if you harm your health? It would hurt me to see you suffer," he said softly.

Next to them was a bowl of porridge. It was still warm as it was just made in the morning. Aurum picked it up and brought a spoonful to her lips. "Come on, have a little."

Ivy did not open her mouth and stared blankly at him. She would not be swayed by Aurum's actions. He had not shown up for three days during her hunger strike, and now he was here suddenly. There had to be a reason. She knew Aurum too well; he never did anything without a purpose.

"Eat. Fill your stomach, then we can talk," Aurum coaxed patiently.

"I've promised you everything. My whole heart is yours. Why don't you believe me?" Ivy asked.

Aurum nodded. "I believe you, I believe you. Now, open your mouth."

The aroma of the porridge l