The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2301

The moment Ivy walked through the door, Alyssa had whipped up a feast that could put a Thanksgiving spread to shame. Her face shone with a joy that could light up the darkest of rooms.

Balfour settled down next to Ivy, the warmth of home wrapping around him like a favorite blanket.

Dean and Alyssa took their seats at the head of the table. Mara, for reasons known only to her, plunked herself down right beside Balfour.

To everyone but Balfour, her intentions were clear as day; Balfour, however, remained blissfully unaware of the drama unfolding. He was probably the last true innocent in a world of seasoned players.

The meal passed in a haze of contentment for Ivy, interrupted only by Mara's lack of appetite.

Post-dinner, Ivy and Balfour headed upstairs.

Mara's glare could've cut glass as she watched their retreat. She was so consumed by her own fury, she didn't even notice Alyssa sidling up beside her.

"Ms. Lewis, are you busy?" Alyssa's voice was like a cold draft in a warm room.

Mara snapped too, her face a quickly painted picture of innocence. "Alyssa, what's up? I’m not busy at all."

Alyssa had no patience for pleasantries. "Come with me. We need to talk."

Her eyes brimmed with tears, the picture of wounded innocence, but Alyssa wasn't buying it.

"Balfour's not here, so save the act. We both know why I'm pushing you to leave. It's better for everyone if you head back. Sticking around here, don't you feel like a third wheel? You've seen the dynamic between Balfour and Ivy. You can't wedge yourself into that. Ms. Lewis, I'll be frank. If I were you, I'd leave now while there's still a chance to exit gracefully. If you linger around Balfour, do you really think it'll end well? You won't get past Dean, let alone me."

Alyssa laid it all out, leaving Mara with a clear choice.

But still, Mara clung to her charade.