The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 1948

A woman in a lilac evening gown stood behind them, her puzzled gaze fixed on the pair. “Balfour, what are you doing here?” she asked.

“Nothing, Balfour said, releasing his hold on Ivy.

The woman approached Ivy, a smile playing on her lips as she appraised her attire. “That dress is a one-of-a-kind global exclusive. When I tried to order it, I was told it had already been snapped up. I never imagined I’d see it here, being worn.”

Ivy knew the dress Balfour had picked out for her must have been expensive, but she hadn’t realized it was a global limited edition.

“I’m just borrowing it for the evening. I’ll return it after the party,” Ivy explained quickly.

The woman pressed her lips together in a slight smile. “I see.”

For some reason, despite the woman’s natural tone, every word she uttered made Ivy feel uneasy, as if there was some underlying hostility.

But why?.

was certain she didn’t know this woman.

they had never met, there was no way she could have

where was this hostility

Could it be…

to look at Balfour beside her. Could it

him and scrutinizing his attire for the day. “I always

they known each other for a long time? Ivy studied their subtle dynamics, curious about their past encounters.

more formal,” Balfour responded curtly, and it was clear he had a different regard for this

more she felt a sense of familiarity. That face…

clicked suddenly, and Ivy gasped in recognition, “Giselle,

and a gracious smile. “Today’s celebration is for my birthday, and I’m delighted you could

this party was her

wish her a happy birthday, wasn’t