The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 1936

For years, Ivy had endured a lot under the thumb of her family, always trying to be understanding and patient. But their greed seemed to know no bounds.

She couldn't stand another day of it.

Glancing at Clara, who she ignored, Ivy confronted her biased and cold-hearted parents. "How much do you want?" she demanded. "Name your price, and I'll repay you, with interest, for your so-called upbringing."

Tessa and Finn exchanged a look before Tessa held up three fingers. "Three million," she said crisply. "Come up with that, and we'll consider your debt paid. You won't hear from us again regarding family matters."

Three million was a steep demand.

Ivy had always lived frugally; there was no way she'd spent anywhere near that much!

They had made their demand, and without paying up, there was no way to server ties.

But where would she find three million now? There was only one person she could think of asking.

"Fine. Give me a moment."

Leaving the living room, Ivy retreated to her old, small bedroom and dialed Balfour's number.

The phone rang for what felt like an eternity before it was finally answered.

"What is it?" came Balfour's detached, distant voice.