The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2025

"Balfour, thank you."

The gratitude in Ivy's voice was unmistakable and heartfelt in a way she had never experienced before. It was a first for her to be on the receiving end of such consideration.

As they chatted, the door to their cozy booth swung open, and the waiter came in with a tray of food.

"Well, isn't this a surprise," came a voice behind the waiter, and in walked Giselle.

Ivy's smile vanished at the sight of her.

Since their sharp exchange in Colton's office, Ivy's impression of Giselle had been less than favorable.

Balfour was just as taken aback by her appearance. His decision to come here had been spur-of-the-moment, not something he had broadcast. So why was Giselle here? A stroke of luck?

"Weren't you just saying you had to deal with something back at the office?" Giselle's eyes darted toward Ivy, a hint of aggression in her gaze. "And now you're here having lunch with Ms. Dunhill?"

The office emergency had been a convenient excuse for Balfour to ask of Giselle, only he had not expected his little lie to be exposed so soon.

"Hungry," was Balfour's nonchalant reply, seemingly indifferent to her feelings.

Giselle, receiving no response from Ivy, turned to Balfour, who had been silent the whole time. "Balfour, I never realized you were still so sentimental, still favoring this place's flavors."

Balfour did not want her there, but he could not just kick her out now that she was. "Just used to it," he said.

"Yes, you've always been like that, haven't you? Nostalgic!"

Giselle chuckled, reminiscing. "I remember you were obsessed with a certain candy when we were kids. You had to have it every day and always shared it with me."

She laughed, patting Balfour's arm. "Do you remember? I didn't even like it at first, but I eventually acquired a taste for it because it was from you! It's a shame that the company stopped making them. You can't find that candy anymore," she said with a wistful sigh.