The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 1914

"I'll pay back every penny you spent on me. As for marriage, I won't be following your plans," Ivy declared firmly, grabbing her suitcase and turning on her heel to leave.

"Ivy, stop right there!"

Tessa's shout did nothing to slow Ivy down; she continued on, leaving Tessa clutching her chest, looking as if she might faint from the shock.

"Dad, Tessa, don't be upset," Clara chimed in, the picture of innocence as she reached out to steady Tessa's hand. "She is just being headstrong, but you still have me! I promise I'll find a good husband and won't let you down."

Tessa gripped her hand, her face softening with relief. "Thank goodness we have you. Oh! Ivy used to be so sensible when she was younger. I can't fathom what's gotten into her now."

"It's your fault for not raising your daughter right!" Finn growled in a low voice. "If she wants to leave, then she need not bother coming back!"

Tessa sat down, silenced by his outburst.

Stepping out of the household, Ivy took a deep breath, feeling a wave of liberation wash over her.

From this day on, she could live life on her own terms, no longer bending to the will of others.

"Ivy, your ride is ready," Quinton said as he opened the car door for her, then took her suitcase.

"Thanks," Ivy murmured, sliding into the car.

On the way to the Howard residence, Ivy's thoughts drifted to the man named Balfour, and she felt a flutter of nerves.

She had a year ahead of her living with a stranger, trying to integrate into a new, prestigious family. She wondered if she had the strength to do well.

"Ivy, we’ve arrived."