The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2493

"What's with the attitude? You should be rolling out the red carpet for guests as the host, especially since Mara and Balfour are childhood sweethearts no less. You're coming off a bit stingy here."

Ivy barely lifted the corners of her mouth. If she wanted to play the grumpy hostess, that was her prerogative. Who said you had to greet guests with a grin plastered on your face?

Besides, not all guests deserved her warmth.

"Sorry, smiling just isn't in my DNA. Have you two come for a particular reason?"

Ivy tilted her chin up, a silent cue for Mara to spill the beans about her companion.

"Oh, this is my dear friend Olivia. We've known each other for years overseas. She's staying in town for a bit—partly to keep me company.

I already mentioned to Balfour we'd drop by. Maybe it slipped his mind to tell you? We had it all planned out, so I brought Olivia over to your place."

Mara's words were laced with the insinuation that she and Balfour had their little secrets, but Ivy wasn't taking the bait.

Balfour had been her shadow lately, barely leaving her side.

Even if they wanted to meet privately, it wasn't happening on her watch. And even if they did, so what?

By now, Ivy knew his heart was with her, and another woman entering the scene wouldn't change a thing.

Observing Ivy's nonchalance after hearing Mara, Olivia realized this woman was far more complex than she imagined.

But no matter how challenging the opponent, Olivia was confident she wouldn't be outplayed. She prided herself on understanding the male psyche all too well.

"Come on in," Ivy invited.

At that moment, Balfour emerged from the bathroom, shirtless as he often was at home. Ivy, hearing the commotion, stepped forward to intercept him.