The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2496

"Hmm, take care of yourself." Balfour tossed the words casually, but Mara's eyes immediately welled up with tears.

She always knew Balfour had a soft spot for her, but out of respect for Ivy's standing, he refrained from showing his feelings too openly in public.

For years, she was always held in high esteem by him. She believed that even Ivy's presence couldn't change that fact.

"I will, don't worry, Balfour. Even when you're not around, I know how to keep myself together."

Ivy was busy tucking into the roast chicken Balfour had carved for her, pretending not to hear Mara's sentimental words.

After finishing her meal, Mara felt it would be awkward to linger at the table, so Balfour suggested she relax in the living room.

Before leaving the dining area, Mara shot Olivia a knowing glance.

The two women proceeded with their plan, splitting up as they had previously discussed.

"Mr. Howard, how did you come to know Ms. Dunhill? You two make quite the interesting pair—a powerhouse CEO and a rising starlet."

Olivia chimed in with perfect timing; her eyes were twinkling and she was really holding genuine curiosity.

The two exchanged a glance, with Ivy blushing slightly.

Balfour simply answered with one word, "Fate."

"Is that so? So we wouldn't be together now if I hadn't met you back then?" Ivy gazed at Balfour intently, eager to know if they would still be united had he not turned around that pivotal day.

But Balfour was confident. Even if they had missed their chance then, he believed destiny would have brought them together somehow. To him, Ivy was his true match, and they were meant to be.

Initially, she suspected their relationship was a mere business arrangement or a publicity stunt. That was common because both parties needed the buzz, although it seemed like Balfour was getting the short end of the stick.

But seeing them now, so sickeningly sweet, especially Balfour, who was completely at odds with his icy corporate mogul persona, she began to understand that this must be what love looks like.

Olivia had never been short on playing the field, considering men to be optional accessories in her life. She never gave her heart away, nor did she understand why they appeared so besotted.

"Mr. Howard, Ms. Dunhill, if you don't mind me asking, how can you be so sure about spending a lifetime together? And if it doesn't work out, don't you think it'll come back to bite you?"

Olivia was always blunt.

Ivy, aware that Olivia was more forthright than most because of her upbringing. She could see the genuine perplexity in Olivia's eyes so she didn’t assume her words as an offense.