The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2508

Everything seemed to go against Olivia, and the fact that she was forced to rely on Mara’s charity only made it worse.

Olivia longed to just walk away, but back home there was a woman lying in wait, eager to ensnare her in a tangled web. She had no choice but to swallow her pride and stay put.

Alyssa wrapped her arm around Ivy’s shoulders and guided her into the spotlight.

“This is my granddaughter-in-law, Ivy Howard,” she beamed. “She’s a real sweetheart, which is why we’ve been keeping her under wraps. We wouldn’t want her to get hurt. But I bet you all have been keeping up with the Howard family’s latest, haven’t you?”

A wave of laughter rippled through the audience at Alyssa’s jest.

Indeed, from the head of the Howard family to the young bride, they had been the talk of the town for quite some time, even before the scandal involving Balfour and Ivy hit the headlines.

It seemed the whole world knew who Ivy was.

have a laugh, and let it be,” Alyssa continued. “But today, on my birthday, I brought Ivy out here to let you all know that she’s not like most girls. She’s quite shy, and if she acts, it’s truly for the love of the craft. If there’s any offense in the future, I hope you’ll all be forgiving. They’re just young folks, after all.”

dare to disrespect Alyssa?

have to reckon with Balfour watching over for

the Howard family would be

step.

out the granddaughter-in-law on her birthday party-seems like she’s really taken with Ivy,” someone familiar with the Howards called out, raising their champagne

Dean and Alyssa nodded in

got it right. We’re both utterly pleased with our granddaughter-in-law. We’re getting on in years, and can’t be as active in business as we once were. Bringing Ivy out is just a way of introducing

presents, Alyssa’s eyes were drawn

got the real touch, knowing just what I

11

take all the credit. “I knitted the scarf

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Chapter 2508