Balfour's tone grew terse as Ivy's impatience seeped into their conversation.
"That day, what you said was completely different from Mara’s words. I trusted you, but in front of all those people. we have to wait for the evidence before we can clear the air."
"I'll say it once and for all—I never laid a finger on her that day!"
To Balfour, Ivy's attitude was a dead-end for communication.
He had no desire to argue any further. Words would be meaningless now.
Seeing Balfour so doggedly defend Mara only soured Ivy's mood further.
For the remainder of the trip, neither spoke a word.
Knowing of their return, Alyssa and Dean eagerly awaited at the doorstep. Alyssa's face lit up at Ivy's arrival, despite the frosty air between Ivy and Balfour, their expressions icy, devoid of any shared glances.
The elders exchanged knowing looks, understanding they had to reveal Mara's doings sooner rather than later to avoid prolonging the misunderstanding.
"Back already! Was the traffic alright?" Alyssa asked.
Ivy mustered a smile, "Grandma, it wasn't too bad today."
"That's good to hear," she replied, guiding Ivy inside while addressing Balfour, who trailed behind them. "Balfour, I asked you to bring Ivy home because we need to discuss some family matters. It's important, hence why both of you needed to be present. Otherwise, I wouldn't have interrupted your work. Ivy!"
Uncertain of the topic at hand, Ivy replied, "Grandma, even if Balfour hadn't picked me up, I would've made time to come home."
"That's my girl. Your dorm on set is temporary; your real home is here."
Alyssa patted Ivy's hand, pleased with her response.
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