The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2348

"Jennifer, darling, you're gonna have to work your magic today," Ivy said with a playful wink, trying to lighten the mood.

Jennifer waved her hand dismissively, "Oh, please, those dark circles under your eyes are nothing to fuss about. Your natural beauty saves me so much trouble on a regular day. Even after staying up all night, your skin still has a glow that the rest of us could only dream of. It just goes to show, some people win the genetic lottery."

Ivy blushed a modest smile at Jennifer's enthusiastic compliments. Jennifer was a bright and cheery young woman who never failed to shower her with praises whenever they met. Taking the compliments in stride, Ivy modestly accepted the praise.

By the time Balfour arrived on set, Ivy was just about finished with her makeup. His silent presence caught the crew off guard, as no one anticipated his arrival without so much as a heads-up. The more observant staff members quickly went to inform Colton of his arrival, while Balfour casually asked about Ivy's whereabouts.

"Ms. Dunhill's in her makeup room," someone informed him.

With swift strides, Balfour made his way to her makeup room, a place he knew all too well from his many visits. Inside, Jennifer and Ivy were in the midst of laughter when the door suddenly swung open.

The man who entered caught Jennifer's eye, her gaze lighting up for a moment before she quickly averted her eyes upon recognizing him.

Ivy's smile faltered.

Their eyes met in the mirror.

Balfour's brow furrowed slightly.

She looked thinner—his immediate thought.

Despite the makeup hiding any signs of fatigue or puffiness, she looked refined but not overdone. Yet, he sensed a weariness in Ivy's eyes, and even her smile didn't seem quite genuine.

Balfour's frown deepened. Despite Ivy's attempts to mask her emotions, he detected a hint of anger and frustration in her tone.

He had respected her wishes for space, staying away from her dorm to give her the freedom she desired. He had done everything she asked, so why the hostility? Shouldn't he be the one to feel upset?

"What's the matter? Does my presence displease you that much?" he asked, his voice a mixture of confusion and wounded pride.

Ivy scoffed, "Oh, no. You are the mighty Mr. Howard, so who would dare to be unwelcoming? It's just that you've come at an inconvenient time. I'm about to shoot a scene, so I don't have time for chit-chat. If there's nothing important, I'd appreciate it if you'd leave."

"Why won't you look at me?" Balfour pressed, seeking eye contact she seemed determined to avoid.