Mara paced restlessly around the room. Claraâs words earlier hit her like a punch, forcing her to see the reality.
Thatâs right, what was she hesitating for? Now with Alyssa unconscious, itâs the most convenient time to take action. Especially after Ivyâs promotional tour, when sheâll have fame, fortune, and Balfour â
how could Mara bear that!
âIvy, itâs time you pay the price. Cherish the time you had with Balfour since it will be a small consolation to you.â
The next day, Alyssa was still unconscious, and Ivy attended to her alone in the hospital room.
As planned with Balfour earlier, Ivy would take care of Alyssa after finishing her tasks. They would take turns caring for her, and Dean wouldnât have to stay at the hospital all day.
Mara arrived with a fruit basket, claiming to visit Alyssa. Seeing the old lady lying on the bed, Mara couldnât help but cry. She covered her mouth to suppress her sobs and, evidently, felt deeply upset.
Ivy massaged Alyssaâs palms without giving Mara much attention. Otherwise, her act would never stop.
âIâm so sorry, Ms. Dunhill, I lost my composure in front of you. Iâve known Alyssa for many years, seeing her like thisâ¦itâs just heartbreaking.â
Ivy only gave a half-smile. âMs. Lewis doesnât need to be so sad. The doctor has already said that Grandma has received the best care, and itâs only a matter of time before she gets better. Thereâs no need to cry soâ¦â
Embarrassed, Mara turned away to wipe her eyes. After putting the fruit basket down, she showed no signs of leaving. âYou must be bored taking care of Alyssa all by yourself. So, how about I keep you company today? When Balfour comes, I can leave then.â
Ivy was indifferent, already predicting Maraâs plans. Since she had come with an excuse to visit, it was clear she wouldnât leave easily. After all, her real purpose was to see Balfour, not genuinely visit Alyssa.
âItâs quite a shame for a young, beautiful actress like you to be cooped up in this hospital room, minding an elderly woman,â Mara sarcastically remarked.
Mara also began massaging Alyssaâs hand, mimicking Ivyâs earlier actions. However, her grip lacked any gentleness, and soon Alyssaâs hand had become quite red.
Ivy was just about to raise her concerns and spoke up. âI donât quite understand the point youâre trying to make, Ms. Lewis.â
Mara laughed, âWhy even pretend between us? Weâre both women; I know youâre very career-focused.
To be stuck in here because of Alyssaâs situation, missing out on important career opportunities like fan meet-and-greets, tell me youâre not even a little resentful?â
âMs. Lewis, please donât presume to know my feelings. Grandma means the world to me. Iâm not like you.â