The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2517

Balfour didn’t dare admit he had no clue about Ivy’s tolerance for booze. Little did he know

that she’d be tipsy from just a glass of wine, her head swimming in a gentle haze.

Ivy’s cheeks were flushed a lovely shade of pink, and as she lay in bed, she seemed restless, not entirely at ease.

Alyssa instructed Balfour not to return downstairs. “Just stay here and look after Ivy, dear. Your grandfather and I will handle the rest.”

He rose to see Alyssa out, still concerned. “You both are getting on in years. I’ll look after her for a bit, and if all is well, I’ll come down shortly.”

“Oh, don’t

who’d come today, to put it nicely, needed Alyssa

a few close friends, they weren’t exactly the

handle. Reassured by Alyssa’s words, Balfour relaxed. Soon, someone brought up a cup of strong coffee, the perfect remedy for Ivy’s condition.

help Ivy drink it. “Otherwise, she’ll wake up with a dreadful

them, restless. Seeing the two head upstairs again, she

at that moment that Olivia caught

you planning on doing in their room how, Mara? It’s not that I’m trying to stop you, but have you thought this through? You’re in the Howard household. Any misstep could ruin the impression you’ve made. Do you think Balfour would choose you after that? No matter how anxious you are, now is not the time. It’s Alyssa’s birthday party, for heaven’s sake. There are so many guests. If you cause a scene, it’ll be

for Mara was her friend.

from doing something irreparable. Mara’s face became gloomy. “What do you mean? Haven’t we already agreed? You chase your man, and I’ll go after Balfour. What’s it to you? You’re not helping me, and now you’re