The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2537

"Don't go slinging mud where it doesn't belong. We're talking about your issue here. Who's jealous that Mr. Howard is your husband?"

Sadly for Ophelia, her words lacked credibility. It was evident to everyone that the moment Balfour walked into a room, her gaze would follow him like a dedicated spotlight.

Even the dance instructor had pulled her aside more than once, telling her to tone it down and reminding her that Balfour was Ivy's husband, a bona fide married couple.

No matter how much you fancy someone else, you've got to consider the wife's feelings.

Of course, Ophelia knew what everyone was insinuating, and she could bet they'd had their share of snickers behind her back.

But so what?

She could guarantee that each and every one of the female trainees there had secretly fantasized about being with Balfour. She just happened to be more transparent about her feelings.

"Your infatuation is as clear as day; there's no point in denying it anymore. But let's put that aside for a moment. What exactly have I done to you to warrant this witch-hunt?"

Ivy crossed her arms, her usual amiable demeanor nowhere in sight.

These past few days, she had had an epiphany. Her leniency had only emboldened them to walk all over her, to drag her name through the mud.

But they had to understand that even a saint has their limits.

But she was determined to make it clear to Ivy that she was nothing special.

Without Balfour, where would she be now?

In the end, it was the Howard family that secured her current success, and she was undeserving of it.

If they were in her shoes, they too could sail smoothly through showbiz and make a name for themselves – that much was a given.

"So what if you're right? Is it so strange that my husband has given me a leg up in my career? I suggest you stop wasting time on baseless gossip and spend a few more hours in the dance studio. Maybe then you won't look so stiff. And if you continue to spread rumors about me, I'll have my attorney handle it, and you'll learn what the cost of defamation truly is."