Chapter 2122
As Balfour stood up, his tall frame cast a shadow over Ivy.
“Take off your jacket, let’s see if you’re hurt anywhere,” he said with earnest concern; his gaze was clear of any ulterior motive.
Ivy blushed a deep crimson, “Ah? No, I’m really fine. I’m not hurt…”
Balfour knew Ivy was stubborn so he didn’t quite believe her. His eyes narrowed slightly in disagreement.
He had just had a taste of what her parents were like.
Growing up in that kind of household, even getting hurt was considered a nuisance in their eyes – that was why Ivy had long learned to keep all her pain locked away inside.
And that’s exactly why he was even more worried.
“Come on,” he commanded as he landed his hand on Ivy’s shoulder. His tone was softer than usual but still assertive. And his actions left no room for argument.
But Ivy still refused. Redness rushed up her neck due to her hastily, “I really didn’t get hurt. I already explained to you in the car. When those thugs tried to lay their hands on me, I distracted them with money. In their scramble for the remaining cash, they didn’t even lay a finger on me.”
Her eyes widened. She almost wanted to jump up and down to prove she was uninjured.
“They couldn’t have been too gentle when they kidnapped you at first. Maybe you’re hurt on your back and you just haven’t noticed it. Let me check!” Balfour’s grip didn’t loosen; he was insistent on making sure she was okay.
And Ivy’s face was now so red it looked like it might bleed.
They were only husband and wife in name, but why did Balfour’s actions seem so natural?
Even though he only wanted to take off her light jacket, beneath it she wore a tank top with not much fabric…
Ivy’s head shook like a rattle, “Really, there’s no need. I’m not in pain anywhere.
Balfour frowned slightly, unable to understand why Ivy was being so stubborn.
He wasn’t the kind of man to take advantage of a situation, so why did she distrust him that much?
“Do you think I’d take advantage of you?” Balfour asked, his brows furrowed in displeasure.
“Ah…where did that come from? Of course I know you’re not that kind of person!”
Ivy hadn’t expected Balfour to think that.
What was this-all about?
She was purely embarrassed, but in his eyes, it seemed as though she was afraid he’d take advantage of her. Then what are you worried about?”
Balfour tugged a little harder and slid Ivy’s jacket off her shoulders.
Ivy’s smooth skin was exposed to his eyes, and Balfour’s pupils contracted as his fingers involuntarily curled.
Before seeing Ivy’s skin, he had no other thoughts.
But as her fair complexion came into view, he found his mind racing uncontrollably.
Ivy didn’t dare to look up at his expression, feeling the intensity of his stare could burn a hole through her jacket.
She tugged at her jacket which he held firmly, “See? I’m really not hurt.”
“I didn’t see the back.” Balfour’s voice was husky.
They were standing very close, and the subtle aroma coming from Ivy drifted into his nostrils.
“What perfume do you usually wear?” Balfour asked despite himself.
Ivy looked up at him strangely, “I use the same bath products as you. What perfume are you talking about? Those designer fragrances are too expensive, and I’m still paying off debts. I don’t have the luxury to indulge in that.”
