The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 1899

After saying goodbye to his nieces and nephews, Balfour cast a stern gaze upon his wayward younger brother. He gave him a stern talking-to, urging him to not cause any trouble for Ellinor and Theo, and to behave himself.

Byran shrugged, rolling his eyes impatiently. "Enough, bro. I get it. I'm not a toddler anymore. Could you give me a break, especially in front of my fiancée?"

Balfour ignored him, instead turning to Ida, nodding at her. "Take care of him while you're traveling."

Ida nodded in response, not saying much.

Finally, Balfour embraced his mother, whom he hadn't seen in a long time. He gently reminded her to stay safe, to take care of her health, and to call him if she got tired so he could pick her up from the airport.

Marlinie looked at her son with tear-filled eyes, nodding. She also told him to not work too hard and to stay safe on his way back.

Balfour, ever the obedient son, nodded at each piece of advice.

Just before they left, Balfour gave his father, McNeil, a serious look. His voice was low and stern, carrying a hint of warning. "If you lose mom and Ida this time, I won't let you off the hook."

McNeil smiled at his son. "I won't. You can count on it."

Balfour waved them off as they passed through the boarding gate. He didn't turn to leave until they were out of sight.

The parting was brief, but for some reason, it left him with a bitter-sweet feeling.

Quinton, his assistant, approached him. "Sir, your grandparents want you to come back home. They said there's a guest."

A guest?

Who would visit on a day like this?