The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2313

Alyssa felt the venom in Mara’s gaze, and Dean, sensing the tension, furrowed his brows and stepped protectively in front of Alyssa.

“This is our family home,” he said firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument. “We’re not asking for your opinion, Mara; we’re informing you to leave. Don’t get it twisted.”

Though Dean had aged, his presence commanded respect.

His reminder jolted Mara back to reality, and her demeanor shifted to one of pitiable distress. She was biding her time, waiting for Balfour to return. She knew she could cause a scene once he was back.

Ivy, hugging her knees, sat down on the cold, damp ground as the twilight deepened and the woods grew chillier. She looked around, feeling the imposing trees closing in, barely able to make out the mysterious shapes in the dark underbrush, a shiver of fear running through her.

She wondered where the search parties were. They should have been on their way back by now. How much longer would she have to wait?

Ivy touched her injured

she winced. “Please don’t be broken. I can’t afford a broken ankle. I’ve got a role to act in back

hoping Alyssa would notice her absence and send someone to find her.

they send? Could it

been furious with her earlier. Would he even bother looking for her?

keep warm. The longer she stayed in this desolate place, the more her heart ached. None of this mess was her fault, yet she’d

really blame her for all

worry for that idiot, I did. Stupid! I won’t make the same mistake again. No good deed goes unpunished,” Ivy

held back tears when Balfour had carried Mara past her, but now, in solitude, she