The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2353

Yeah, Ivy’s exhaustion was her own doing, really. If she hadn’t gone for the acting gig, she could’ve snagged a cushier job, no doubt.

But why was she so beat? Wasn’t it because of Balfour, that she barely got a wink of sleep last night?

And the real culprit had the nerve to critique her life choices?

Ivy felt more than just tired; she felt drained. Being in debt to this man, she was anything but free.

If she had it her way, there would be no debt between them, nothing owed. Then she could declare her feelings openly, without any hesitation.

Instead, she was all kinds of cautious, second-guessing every move.

“So, this is what you really think, huh? That this mess is on me. I had it coming, right? Then do me a favor and keep your distance. Mr. Howard, I’m just a small-time actress, not worth your time or energy. I don’t want to argue anymore.”

that were leaning against the couch and hoisted herself up.

stage makeup and collapse into bed for

even with him right there, and it stung a little.

on those crutches? Don’t you know I’m here

turned back, surprised.

the crutches, so why would I need your help? Mr. Howard, are you kidding me? I asked you before I left home if you could be by my side all

laughter in her voice, as if she found the

averted his gaze; suddenly, he couldn’t bear

mean it like that. I just meant that since I’m here, you could ask for my

leave one day anyway. I’m used

for herself, since

the way she was raised, her family instilling that fierce independence

forever, a lesson her parents had drummed into her.