Colton and the producer wisely chose not to disturb the man who commanded the business world and was now pulling strings to secure funding for their film.
When Balfour made a move, it was a sure bet. If he stepped in, there would likely be no mishaps.
It was dark when Balfour finally left the set, figuring that Ivy would be asleep by the time he got back to the hospital.
Elara was tidying up the dayâs paperwork when Balfour unexpectedly returned.
In a hushed tone, she said, âMrs. Howard is already asleep. If you need to speak with her, it might be best to wait until morning so as not to wake her.â
It was a gentle reminder. Maybe Ivy would sleep better if Balfour was there in the room with her.
-After Balfour left, Ivy tossed and turned, struggling to find sleep.
Although she hadnât said it, Elara could sense it. She lingered in the room a while longer, chatting with Ivy about this and that, hoping to distract her from her worries.
Ivy finally drifted off around ten, her brow furrowed even in sleep.
Elara wondered why, with their evident affection, Balfourâs concern for Ivy and her strong yearning for him, they couldnât just get along.
Balfour nodded, acknowledging Elaraâs words, and then tiptoed into the room. He approached the bed where Ivy lay fitfully asleep and gently placed his hand on her furrowed brow.
âIs it because of me that youâre upset?â he wondered internally.
He didnât wanted to argue with Ivy, but the moment she chose to defend Nolan over him, a sour taste filled his mouth.
âWhy? I was the one who chose you first. Why canât you give me a clear answer?â
Balfour could feel Ivyâs attachment, but if that attachment was based on a compromise made without any other choice, heâd rather not have it at all.
Unaware of Balfourâs turmoil, Ivy had her own quandaries. She never felt in control, and if Balfour was so bothered by Nolan, what did that make of Mara?
The mention of that womanâs name consistently sparked arguments between them. Over time, Ivy wasnât sure if there was any point in holding on.
Yet, she was certain about her own heart; she yearned for Balfourâs presence.
While talking with Elara, Ivyâs mind kept drifting, pondering Balfourâs whereabouts and whether he was reaching out to Mara again.
Was he complaining to Mara about her lack of understanding, thinking how much better it would be if she were like Mara?
Ivy didnât want to seem pitiful, but Balfourâs actions had made it clear that she would always be second to Mara.
She remembered the last question Elara had asked.
âWhy do you and Mr. Howard, with such a great relationship, still have disputes? Isnât your love strong enough to overcome any crisis?â
Elara, being a perceptive nurse, sensed that Ivy needed to talk about these things, prompting her to ask the question.
Ivy had just smiled without responding immediately. She was pondering the question too. But for the two of them, a fundamental premise did not exist-their feelings were not as profound as assumed.