The Kiss that Sparked it All

Everything seemed to go against Olivia, and the fact that she was forced to rely on Mara’s charity only made it worse.

Olivia longed to just walk away, but back home there was a woman lying in wait, eager to ensnare her in a tangled web. She had no choice but to swallow her pride and stay put.

Alyssa wrapped her arm around Ivy’s shoulders and guided her into the spotlight.

“This is my granddaughter-in-law, Ivy Howard,” she beamed. “She’s a real sweetheart, which is why we’ve been keeping her under wraps. We wouldn’t want her to get hurt. But I bet you all have been keeping up with the Howard family’s latest, haven’t you?”

A wave of laughter rippled through the audience at Alyssa’s jest.

Indeed, from the head of the Howard family to the young bride, they had been the talk of the town for quite some time, even before the scandal involving Balfour and Ivy hit the headlines.

It seemed the whole world knew who Ivy was.

“Those online gossips? Give ’em a read, have a laugh, and let it be,” Alyssa continued. “But today, on my birthday, I brought Ivy out here to let you all know that she’s not like most girls. She’s quite shy, and if she acts, it’s truly for the love of the craft. If there’s any offense in the future, I hope you’ll all be forgiving. They’re just young folks, after all.”

Who would dare to disrespect Alyssa?

Even if they did, they’d still have to reckon with Balfour watching over for her like a hawk.”

Anyone hoping for future dealings with the Howard family would be wise to watch their step.

“Alyssa bringing out the granddaughter-in-law on her birthday party-seems like she’s really taken with Ivy,” someone familiar with the Howards called out, raising their champagne flute high.

Both Dean and Alyssa nodded in affirmation.

“You got it right. We’re both utterly pleased with our granddaughter-in-law. We’re getting on in years, and can’t be as active in business as we once were. Bringing Ivy out is just a way of introducing her around. Now, I won’t say much more. I’ve received all your kind birthday wishes and gifts. Thank you, everyone!” Property © of NôvelDrama.Org.

Among the mountain of presents, Alyssa’s eyes were drawn to the scarf Ivy had brought.

“Oh my, it’s Ivy who’s got the real touch, knowing just what I need-a new scarf.”

Ivy blushed, reluctant to take all the credit. “I knitted the scarf myself, but the emeralds were personally chosen by Balfour.”

Emeralds weren’t rare these days, but their purity certainly wasn’t what it used to be.

So when Balfour saw this particular gem at an auction, he didn’t hesitate to drive the price up and secure it for Alyssa.

“Grandma, this is a birthday gift from both Ivy and me,” Balfour spoke up, almost nonchalantly as if he had nearly forgotten what he was supposed to say that day.

Alyssa watched their subtle interactions with reassurance.

Later on, she and Dean split up to greet the guests, each tending to their own social circles.

As her granddaughter-in-law, Ivy was expected to partake in these occasions.

Initially, Ivy found such events quite awkward, but she could feel Alyssa’s sincerity and genuine affection for her.