The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2278

Ivy stirred to consciousness, feeling the warmth of a hand clasping hers—a comfort far removed from the self-embrace she had settled into before drifting off.

Despite the VIP ward boasting a separate bed for guests, Balfour had abandoned it in the wee hours, opting instead to hold Ivy's hand and slumber by her bedside, troubled by her restless sleep.

As Ivy shifted, Balfour blinked awake. "Morning, sunshine. Hungry? I could dash down to the deli and grab some breakfast."

Ivy shook her head, her appetite not quite kicking in yet. Her mind was elsewhere, wondering why Balfour was even there.

"Didn't Ms. Lewis just fly back in? Shouldn’t you be playing the gracious host?"

"She's a guest, sure, and I've done my bit. But you come first. Grandma and Grandpa are there; she'll be just fine."

Ivy's heart tangled with mixed feelings, unable to grasp why, just when she had resolved to stop pining for Balfour, he had swooped in with such tenderness and swayed her resolve.

Balfour had not overthought it. Ever since a conversation with Elara last night, he figured he ought to spend more time with Ivy.

He had brought his work to the hospital, ensuring he was by her side 24/7, save for the occasional food run.

"I came in such a hurry yesterday; I totally spaced on arranging your meals. You love Althea's cooking, right? I'll swing by the house tonight and have her whip up something special. Starting tomorrow, Quinton can deliver your meals three times a day."

Ivy's brow creased with worry. Was she becoming a burden?

"Your company needs you, Balfour. I'm nearly back on my feet. You don't have to stick around here."

Without even looking up, Balfour continued to fill her plate with food.