The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2024

As Ivy met Balfour’s unwavering gaze, a seed of belief began to sprout in her mind after what felt like the hundredth explanation from him. Maybe he truly was here for her.

With that realization, the frustration that had been suffocating her heart dissipated, replaced by a flurry of shyness.

She started to sense that their relationship was not quite what it used to be.

“Ready to chat now?” Balfour leaned in slightly, a crooked smile on his lips. “Missed lunch, didn’t you?”

Ivy had not felt hungry until he mentioned it, but suddenly, her stomach echoed with emptiness. She nodded. “Yeah, I could eat.”

Balfour glanced at his watch. “It’s way past noon. I skipped lunch, too. How about we grab something before going home?”

to keep her grin at bay, turning away before letting her smile burst forth, her

in her hands, it seemed to have taken on a sweeter significance. Without it, she might

Balfour called his driver, instructing him

driver was the epitome of professionalism, swiftly getting the car and

could not help but remark as they approached

at this joint, owned by a friend who never charged him a dime. He had not really considered the actual cost

Balfour responded casually, taking her

herself being ushered in, “Hey,

her mind a whirlwind of

his favorites when he remembered Ivy’s presence and handed her the menu. “What would you