Ivy's POV
The maid entered quietly, carrying the silver tray as if it might break at the slightest sound. The warm scent of roasted herbs and tender meat drifted through the room, rich and inviting, but it only made my stomach twist tighter.
"I am fine," I said, turning my head away before I could even look at the food properly.
"My lady… if you don't take it, then Mr. Vault will…" The maid's voice trailed off, but the fear in her eyes was louder than any warning, so i didn't let her finish.
I reached for the plates immediately, my fingers tightening around the edges like I was holding onto the last bit of control I still had. I forced the first bite down my throat, then another, swallowing before my body could protest. The food tasted like nothing.
It might as well have been dust.
