Ivy's biggest worry was what her fans might think, but if they didn't believe her, she could hardly blame them. After all, what kind of rookie actress has a string of scandals trailing behind her like a bad soap opera plot?
And this time, there was no evidence to clear her name. If they did believe her, Ivy felt a pang of guilt. She had no idea how to repay their faith.
Her life was a hot mess, and yet, there were complete strangers out there, putting their trust in her. With a heavy heart, Ivy let out a sigh, but the silence was shattered by a ringtone.
Picking up her phone, she saw it was Balfour calling.
Why on earth would he call now?
Answering the call, neither spoke at first.
Ivy couldn't gauge his thoughts, while Balfour was at a loss for words.
Initially, seeing Mara collapse had sent Balfour into a dark place, making him lash out at Ivy. But once the storm in his head had passed, he doubted that Ivy could have been responsible for such an act.
Sadly, besides the two of them, no evidence was forthcoming.
And Ivy just thought that Balfour couldn't even bring himself to talk to her anymore, which left a sour taste in her heart.
"Mr. Howard, is there a particular reason you're contacting me at this hour?" Ivy managed to ask, suppressing the turmoil inside her.
"Granny wants us home. I'm downstairs. Get ready and come down. Actually, scratch that—I'll come up."
Finally, she let out a weary sigh, "Then come on up and get me."
If these events were destined to happen, she'd just have to face them head-on. There was no other choice.
Once they hit the road, Balfour broached the subject of the online rumors.
"What really happened in the restroom that night?"
Ivy attempted a smile, but it was a lost cause.
"I've already explained it to you before. Didn't you say you didn't believe me? If you doubt my words, why bother asking again? Don't worry, I won't drag you or Mara into this. I'll find the evidence to clear my name on my own."
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