The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 1959

Ivy’s heart leapt when she saw the notification in her email: an invitation to an interview. It was only an interview, yet to her, it was as precious as gold dust. After a string of rejections that felt like tossing wishes into the abyss, this was a lifeline.

She knew she had to bring her A-game. Every detail mattered, from her poise to her attire, so she dipped into her modest savings and set out to hit the local mall.

The clothes Alyssa had prepared were all a bit too glitzy for an interview, more suitable for a gala than an office.

With a quick word to Alyssa, she was out the door.

Roaming through the mall alone, Ivy found the perfect business suit. It was like the mannequin had been her twin, but the price tag was hefty. She hesitated, pondering whether to bite the bullet.

drawled, one that was as familiar as it was unwelcome.

furrowed instinctively. Sure enough, there was Clara,

million, they hadn’t bothered her. She’d hoped she’d seen the last of them.

her newfound luxury, no doubt funded

with

are you even doing here, Ivy? As if you could afford anything. Just here to play dress-up? You should stick to wearing my hand-me-downs!”

“Hi, could you pack up the suit from the dressing

just a moment.”

card, she prepared to leave without further ado.

one, playing the mistress?

her started to assess Ivy with scornful looks, mocking