The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2299

“Ms. Lewis, you are a blessed soul, and one day, you’ll find a husband who cherishes you just as much. But good things come to those who wait.”

Mara looped her arm through Alyssa’s, seeking warmth in the connection. “I wonder if I might snag a bit of affection from you, just like Ivy does? The first time I laid eyes on you, I felt this incredible sense of familiarity, like coming home to a freshly baked apple pie. Staying here has only deepened that feeling. You and Dean are just the kindest folks. I feel so close to you both, and I just hope I’m not wearing out my welcome.”

Alyssa, eagerly awaiting Ivy’s return, was in no mood for idle chit-chat. She gently patted Mara’s hand before sliding it off her arm.

“In time, you’ll find someone who’ll dote on you just the same, Ms. Lewis,” she said with a kind but distant tone.

Dean, meanwhile, was the picture of discretion, seemingly absorbed in his own thoughts and oblivious to the ladies’ exchange.

a bit, as far as family ties went. No matter her connection to Balfour, she couldn’t possibly hold a candle

air, but Mara, undeterred by the subtle rebuff, simply positioned her

pulled up to the curb. Alyssa’s attention shifted instantly,

on her feet, stopped her. “Grandma, stay put! I’ll grab the stuff from the car and

turned to get her things, Balfour suggested she greet Alyssa first while he handled the luggage. She accepted nonchalantly, having grown accustomed to his attentiveness, and

to Mara. She grabbed Ivy’s hands and gave them a firm shake.

using the heater in the car?” Alyssa clucked with concern, her hands enveloping

a nonchalant

feeling completely recovered?” Mara