"What new trick is this?"

Sterling pushed the door open, a dark silhouette against the light.

He looked terrible, his hand pressed unconsciously against the small of his back.

I had been on a hunger strike for days. Since he didn't want me dead just yet, he had no choice but to come himself.

I forced myself to sit up, a cramp in my stomach making me break out in a cold sweat.

"Let me out. I don't want to be here."

He frowned, his face a mask of impatience.

"I warned you, don't even think about disrupting my wedding. Threatening to kill yourself is useless!"

A self-deprecating smile touched my lips.

"You think too highly of yourself, Sterling. I cherish my life—far more than you seem to cherish yours."

He seemed surprised by my answer, freezing for a second before scoffing.

"At worst, once I marry Scarlett, I can set you up as my mistress."

"Just behave yourself and don't cause any trouble."

"But you are not to be seen by Scarlett, and you will not say a single word to upset her."

He wanted to humiliate me like this?

How could I have been so blind? To think I ever fell for such scum.

Every word from his mouth now made me sick.

The little boy from my memory, who would secretly give me candy and defend me from bullies, was gone, replaced by this monster.

Now, he was as disgusting as a worm writhing in the gutter.

I didn't have the energy to argue. I just wanted out, not to waste my breath on him.

"I don't need anything from you."

"But if you insist on keeping me trapped here, you could at least give me decent food."

"Stop sending me this spoiled, rotten garbage!"

Sterling's brow furrowed even deeper.

"What are you talking about? Scarlett herself gave the kitchen instructions for your meals."

"She specifically told me she was worried you weren't eating well, that every meal should be nutritionally balanced!"

That woman… she could lie without even blinking.

I took a deep breath and pointed to the tray on the floor.

"Have one of your men lift that cover. See for yourself."

My voice was weak, but laced with sarcasm. "See what your so-called 'nutritious meal' really looks like."