Chapter 2244: Chapter 2244

Nolan was anxious, his usual charm nowhere to be found as he faced Ivy across the room.

“Ivy, just pretend I’m a stranger for a minute and seriously consider what I’m saying. Do you really want to keep doing something this risky? Even your fans, the ones who truly care about you, wouldn’t want you putting yourself in danger like this.”

Ivy frowned, her resolve wavering. Was he really pushing her to give up now?

“Nolan, I get where you’re coming from, but this career… it’s my first real shot. I just can’t walk away halfway through.”

Watching Ivy avoid his gaze, Nolan’s expression grew even more concerned. “Are you still as stubborn as ever? Why do you have to be this way? Isn’t your life worth more than anything?”

Locking eyes with him, Ivy replied, “Nolan, did you come here just to hear me say I’ll quit acting?

Thanks for your concern, really. I appreciate it, but I’m not ready to throw in the towel just yet. I can’t convince you now, I know, but this is my life, and I’m holding the reins. Besides, I’m an adult and have the right to make my own choices, including how to protect myself. Thanks for stopping by, Nolan. I’m grateful, truly. But I’m tired, and if you don’t mind, I’d like to get some rest.”

With that, Ivy turned away and closed her eyes.

Nolan let out a wry chuckle, his tone softening with a hint of resignation. “I should’ve known you’d bristle at me playing the bad guy here. But, stubborn or not, I had to say my piece. Alright, I’ll leave you to rest. Once you’re feeling stronger, I’ll come back to check on you.”

As he sighed, Ivy felt a pang of guilt. Was she being too hard on him? After all, he was just worried about her.

Just as Nolan was preparing to leave, the door swung open, and Balfour walked in.

Spotting Nolan, Balfour’s expression darkened Ivy, catching the commotion, turned, and her eyes lit up at the sight of him- a spark that Nolan had never managed to kindle.

“Hello,” Nolan greeted Balfour with due respect.

“What brings you here?” Balfour, bags in hand, looked like he’d brought a piece of home with him.

“Heard about Ivy’s accident. Found out she was staying here and came to check on her.”

Without pausing, Balfour stepped past Nolan and started unpacking the bags, setting out familiar comforts around the hospital room.

“Well, I appreciate it on her behalf. She needs to rest now. You can leave.”

Nolan sighed, then added, “Balfour, maybe you should take better care of Ivy, prevent her from getting hurt over and over. If something really bad happens, you won’t even get the chance to regret it.”

Balfour froze, then turned stiffly to meet Nolan’s gaze. A sneer curled his lips, barely perceptible. “And what right do you have to say that?”

Nolan held his ground. “I know I’m overstepping, but remember, Ivy isn’t just your Ivy. She’s like the moon, admired by more people than there are stars in the sky.”

The smirk faded from Balfour’s face, replaced by a cold stare.