The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2454

Ivy was battered and bruised, her spirit waning from the constant barrage of hurt dealt by those she once trusted. She had no masochistic streak within her—why should she gravitate towards those who harbored no affection for her? After all, she was surrounded by a sea of faces that beamed with genuine appreciation for her.

It was through Balfour's unwavering love and steadfast loyalty that she found clarity. The best response to the naysayers was a cool, detached indifference. She resolved to put as much distance between them and herself as possible. Her own happiness, she realized, would be the ultimate vengeance.

She wanted to show them that without their shadows looming over her, she would only rise higher.

Watching Ivy slowly regain her vigor filled Balfour with unspeakable relief. He had fretted over her fragile state, worried that without professional help, he was ill-equipped to mend her frayed emotions. Yet, to his surprise, Ivy's strength was a testament to her resilience—pain was a demon she had learned to vanquish time and again.

In a tender gesture, Balfour wrapped his arms around her shoulders. He closed his eyes, hiding the pain that flickered behind his lids.

The investigation into Finn and Tessa’s relationship left him deeply perplexed. Was Tessa's disdain for her own flesh and blood solely because Ivy was not the son she had hoped for? Did she believe that having a male heir would have secured her standing within the Dunhill family? The irony was not lost on him; gender bias in the 21st century seemed absurdly anachronistic.

Clara had also made a mockery of herself by pinning her misdeeds on Ivy.

Did Tessa never once suspected the truth? Or, did she know but still chose not to trust her own daughter?