The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2282

She fancied acting, so let her act. He would not let what happened to Ivy occur again, not on his watch.

He was well aware of the public's disdain for Colton’s production crew, but he knew better than to rush into damage control. The best strategy was to wait until their reputation hit rock bottom, then make a move; the turnaround would be spectacular.

Balfour had been scheming, knowing full well Ivy would certainly not give up acting.

Arriving home, Balfour instructed the housekeeper to lay out some everyday clothes for Ivy. As he stepped out of the car, Mara came running towards him.

"Balfour, you're back!"

Mara seemed in high spirits, grabbing his arm, ready to head inside with him.

Balfour discreetly slipped his arm away.

"Balfour, taking care of Ivy at the hospital must have drained you," she said.

"Not at all. You stay here; I need to discuss something with Althea."

Mara frowned, insisting on joining him. "What's so secret that I can't hear? Don't you know how bored I am here alone?"

It was not a big deal; she could listen in, but her complaint of boredom made Balfour hesitate.

"Maybe I should send you back to M State. I'm swamped these days and can hardly spare time for you."

Before he could finish, Mara's tears began to fall, leaving Balfour flustered.

Mara angrily wiped her tears away. "I get it, Balfour, you think I'm a nuisance! Fine, I won't trouble you anymore. Go on with your business! If you don't want me here, I'll book a flight tonight and go back by myself."

Though she tried to dry her tears, they flowed like an unstoppable stream.

Balfour frowned, puzzled by her endless crying.

"When did I ever say I wanted you gone? Mara, stop being unreasonable. I have other things to attend to."

This was the first time Balfour had spoken to her in such a stern tone, and Mara was genuinely hurt.

Looking up at him pitifully, she said, "Balfour, you really think I’m annoying, don’t you?"