The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2511

Balfour had pulled out all the stops for Alyssa's birthday party, really hoping to add a splash of joy to the old couple's lives.

The truth was, at their age, their days were mostly spent within the walls of their home, their circle of friends ever-dwindling.

As they often remarked with a hint of sadness, every encounter with a friend might be the last.

Balfour didn't want them to feel trapped by their years; he aimed to fill the old family manor with laughter and life, to stir up some excitement for them.

Frankly, he couldn't care less about the opinions of most guests at the party.

But to keep his grandparents beaming with pride, he played the role of the doting grandson, quietly following in their footsteps.

He knew precisely what kind of talk warmed Dean and Alyssa’s hearts, especially when others praised him—such compliments were like rays of sunshine on their faces.

Ivy had been upstairs with Alyssa for a while, and Balfour, feeling a tad anxious, glanced in that direction.

It was then that Mara, trailed by Olivia, gracefully approached, the hem of her dress swaying with each step.

Dean's smile faded a notch upon seeing Mara; he hadn't expected her to still be around, especially after discussing with Balfour the need to send her away. Now that Balfour and Ivy had moved out, at least she wasn't a constant presence.

Alyssa was more tolerant than before, but knowing her temperament, had she been aware of Mara's past misdeeds, she wouldn't have allowed her to stick around.