The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2005

"Let's go, and it's time to head in," Balfour said, checking his watch and standing up.

They both checked their tickets and found their seats in the packed theater.

Alyssa had intentionally picked an ordinary screening to let them experience a typical date night, and the place was buzzing with people.

Balfour stood out in his sleek black suit among the crowd dressed in jeans and T-shirts.

Catching his slightly awkward expression, Ivy couldn't help but smile, leaning in and teasing, "Regretting not changing before we came out? People don't usually wear suits to a movie."

"Just watch the movie," Balfour said sternly, gently pushing her head back to face the screen.

Ivy touched her head and then settled down to watch the movie.

The film was a romantic comedy, clearly chosen by Alyssa to foster some closeness between the two.

Balfour's phone rang just as the movie was starting. He answered in a hushed tone, "Now?"

Ivy turned, sensing she knew who was on the other end of the call.

After hanging up, Balfour looked troubled, casting a meaningful glance at Ivy.

She quickly got the hint, smiling and whispering, "It's okay, go if you need to. I can watch the movie by myself. If grandma asks later, I'll cover for you."

The call was from Giselle, saying she had gotten hurt on set and wanted him to come by.

In front of her, Balfour didn't know how to refuse. But he'd promised to watch the movie with Ivy, and leaving because of a call would make her feel wrong.

Wasting one ticket was better than wasting both.

"A movie ticket's like ten bucks, you know. That's twenty for both of us. We can't get a refund since we've already been checked in," Ivy grumbled about the money, unable to stop nagging, "And I was actually looking forward to that movie. What a waste."

Balfour, focused on driving, chose to ignore her complaints.

Seeing he wasn't reacting, Ivy stopped her chatter, realizing it was pointless.

After about half an hour's drive, they reached the studio Giselle had mentioned. Balfour got out of the car, but Ivy just sat there, unmoving.

Balfour opened the passenger door for her, "Come on out."