The Kiss that Sparked it All

The enchanted onlookers couldn’t help but exclaim, “I believe in love again!”

“It looks like our Ivy genuinely had no clue Mr. Howard was going to show up,” someone murmured.

The host passed the mic to Ivy, who nodded. “He’s really tight-lipped.”

“So, Mr. Howard,” the host prodded, “do you have any expectations for Ivy winning an award today?”

It was a cunning question. If Balfour said yes, it might suggest something underhanded about Ivy’s award. If he said no, it would seem out of touch with reality.

“I’m hopeful for a win,” he answered diplomatically.

The host didn’t dare to dig any deeper, wary of upsetting the influential mogul.

“Alright, let’s wish them both the best of luck. Next up…” Content is property © NôvelDrama.Org.

Balfour bent down, gently lifting her dress hem. “Let’s go, princess.”

Ivy’s cheeks flushed uncontrollably at his words. He was full of surprises, and now he was making these gestures in front of the media.

Though they were always like this in private, she didn’t want anyone to look down on him because of how he treated her.

Once they were alone, Ivy voiced her concerns. Balfour firmly took her hand.

“I’m taking care of my wife; what’s wrong with that? Stop worrying. Those days are long gone.”

His confident gaze reassured her. Even if people accused her of posturing at the Feather Awards, it didn’t matter. She was truly happy.

Their seats were side by side, and Ivy realized she was the only one kept in the dark

“Sit down and get ready to accept the first trophy of your acting career!”

Ivy sat beside him, chuckling. “Are you that confident I’ll win?”

“It’s not just my confidence in you; it’s my faith in people’s taste. The other actors are good, but they’re no match for you, and deep down, everyone knows it.”

Her grip on his hand tightened. His certainty gave her courage.

She deserved that trophy. Her sweat and effort in portraying Valor were proof enough of her dedication to the role.

As the award ceremony began, time flew. Soon, the screen announced the Best New

Actress category.

Last year’s Best New Actress, now a successful supporting actress, presented the award.

“Wow, she’s this summer’s dark horse, and I bet she’ll continue to be one in the acting. world. Let’s congratulate the star of ‘Ballad of Valor’-Ivy Dunhill!”

Ivy stood up, covering her mouth in shock. When her name was called, she was utterly bewildered. Balfour helped her up to the stage.

Accepting the award, she was still dazed. “Hello, everyone. I’m Ivy Dunhill, and this is my first role in a movie. I’m thrilled and surprised to receive this award. To say I never hoped for it would be a lie, but

only now, holding this trophy, do I understand its true weight. I’d like to give my thanks to the director and the entire crew of ‘Ballad of Valor,’ thank you for your support. Without you, there would be no Valor, no honor for me tonight. Thank you. all!”