The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2060

"Take a seat, everyone," Alyssa beckoned with a warm smile as she and Dean settled into the head of the table, with Ivy perched to one side, facing their guest, Giselle.

It was customary to wait for the matriarch to take the first bite, and as soon as she did, Ivy gracefully rose to serve Alyssa a bowl of creamy fish chowder.

"Grandma, have a little more of the chowder. It's thick and creamy—just how you like it, and the bones have all been removed. It's perfect for you," Ivy said with a caring tone.

"You're such a darling." Alyssa chuckled, taking small sips of the chowder before nodding in satisfaction. "Mmm, this is indeed delicious. The sweetness of the fish really comes through, and it's so soothing on the stomach."

While nodding along, Ivy effortlessly picked up a shrimp that Balfour had peeled and placed in her bowl. She loved shrimp but was terrible at peeling them herself, always ending up with greasy hands and hardly any meat to show for it. Today, Balfour had taken on this task to play the part of the doting husband, and Ivy was more than happy to indulge in this rare treat.

"Fish chowder's good for your health. Make sure you have some, too!" Ivy reminded Balfour, her head tilted up towards him.

Balfour paused mid-peel. His response was tepid but agreeable.

"Sure."

He placed a perfectly peeled shrimp into Ivy's bowl, and she passed him a napkin in thanks. Their actions were so fluid and natural that they did not need words—it was like second nature to them.

Alyssa watched their sweet exchange at the dinner table with contentment, enjoying her meal all the more for it.

Giselle, however, was clearly struggling to maintain her composure.

"Balfour, this asparagus is so crisp and sweet. Wouldn't you like to try some?" Giselle managed to keep a poised smile, although she had never seen Balfour peel shrimp for another woman. What made that Ivy so special?

Her arm was growing tired from holding the asparagus aloft when she finally caught Balfour exchanging a glance with Ivy. Then, much to her dismay, Ivy accepted the asparagus on Balfour's behalf with a polite "Thank you, but Mr. Howard isn't a fan of asparagus. I'll eat it on his behalf!"