The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2304

Balfour could sense Mara's conviction was as strong as if someone had badmouthed her behind her back.

"Don't worry about staying here," he reassured her. "If anyone dares to gossip about you, just tell me. You're without a place to stay, and I'm not going to let anyone make things difficult for you."

Initially, Balfour hesitated to let Mara in.

Now, he felt it was the right decision. To find her another place to stay seemed less of a priority.

With her under his roof, he could look out for her a little more until she could return to her home country and put an end to this whole situation.

Mara's eyes reddened with distress, insisting she couldn't stay any longer.

"Balfour, I know I've been a bother, and I can't impose on you anymore. Even if I have to stay on my own, I will. Really."

"No way, you're not well, and it's not safe for you to stay alone outside!" Balfour frowned, not expecting the situation to be this serious.

Just then, Alyssa and Ivy walked in, laughing and chatting. They were surprised to see Balfour and Mara's somber expressions.

Mara instinctively hid behind Balfour.

Alyssa was frustrated to see this. Mara claimed she had no romantic interest in Balfour, but Mara's actions were a slap in her face.

Ivy, too, was displeased, yet she had decided to win Balfour's affection on her own terms, without self-pity.

Balfour and Mara had known each other for years. But nothing happened.

Before Mara could protest, Balfour nodded in agreement.

Mara watched helplessly as Ivy approached with a smile. To her, Ivy's innocent smile seemed like a challenge.

Was this woman not as simple as she had thought?

"Ms. Lewis, you wouldn't mind me tagging along, would you?"

Mara managed a strained smile, "Of course not! But are you sure you're up for it? Maybe resting at home would be better for you."

Alyssa interjected, "Ivy's been cooped up in the hospital long enough. She needs to get out and socialize; it's good for her recovery. You young people should explore and have fun. Don't worry about Dean and me."