The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 1977

Balfour was pretty sure why Ivy was acting so off today. With a hint of mischief, he asked, "Are you angry about me being linked with other women in the tabloids?"

She stuttered, her cheeks turning the color of autumn leaves, "I...I... of course no, Balfour, don't overthink it. I...I couldn't care less!"

"Really?" Balfour clearly didn't buy her flimsy denial but didn't call her out on it.

Ivy's eyes darted about, unable to hide her inner panic. "I just think that during our agreement, you should be on your best behavior. You shouldn't be seen at hotels with other women! How am I supposed to explain that to your grandparents if you do so?"

Balfour fell silent for a moment, then confessed, "Giselle got hurt on set today. She didn't have anyone with her, so I just made sure she got to the hotel safely. That's all."

Ivy was surprised that he'd explain himself to her. She met his gaze, pretending to cough, "Why are you telling me this? I didn't even ask!"

"Giselle and I go way back; we've been friends since we were kids. You just can't turn your back on when your friend’s in need. Don't get it wrong. The media loves to spin tales, and I've already had Quinton squash those baseless stories," he explained calmly and candidly.

The straightforwardness in his eyes made it impossible for Ivy not to believe him.

Was that so?

Ivy pursed her lips, suddenly feeling a weight lift off her chest. She averted her gaze, feeling awkward. "Alright, I get it! Can you get up now? You're squashing me. I can barely breathe!"

"I can't," Balfour said bluntly, offering no explanation.

With her face burning up, Ivy tried to control her racing heart. "This is such an awkward position. If we need to talk, this isn't the way! Stop messing around, get up!"

"Awkward?" Balfour slowly lowered his head, "Ivy, have you forgotten? We're married."

Ivy's heart felt like it was about to leap out of her throat, but she just couldn't muster the strength to push Balfour away.