It was hidden in her mouth. Ivy had been holding it there the entire time. The bug was too important. It was the only evidence she had, and she had to get it to Shawn. If Aurum discovered the bug, he would realize she had never intended to submit to him. Who knows, he might use even more brutal methods against her.

Earlier, Ivy and Shawn never had a chance to get close. With Aurum constantly watching, she could not pass it to him. After much thought, Ivy used the hug to slip the bug into Joshua's pocket. Joshua, despite his young age, was clever and sharp. He would not let her down. She pinned all her hopes on him.

"Are you satisfied with my performance?" Ivy withdrew her gaze and turned to Aurum. "Can you trust me now?"

"What have you done to make me trust you?"

"Aurum, suspicious people don't live happy lives."

"Not getting the person you want is what truly makes one unhappy."

Ivy asked, "You still haven't given up on Gale? Aren't you going to marry me?"

Aurum lifted her chin.