Ivy pressed her lips together, hesitating before she spoke.

Jamison broke the silence. “Besides, I have my own carder. I’m not bound by my family. Even if they object, it’s nothing more than some harsh words. They don’t actually have anything to hold over me, so I just don’t let it bother me.”

Ivy listened carefully, taking in every word, and found herself seriously considering what he’d said.

She had to admit, this open, heartfelt conversation tonight made her feel a surge of admiration for Jamison.

He was so young, yet he’d already mapped out his future, willingly giving up unimaginable wealth to carve out his own path–working hard, staying focused, building something that was truly his.

He was incredible.

This was exactly what people meant by that rare breed who are not only more talented but also work harder than you.

Ivy suddenly realized she was starting to look up to Jamison, just a little.

But maybe that’s why she couldn’t help questioning his feelings for her.

It wasn’t that she lacked self-confidence or thought poorly of herself–she knew she was accomplished in her own right. But after those three lost years, after being abducted and everything that came with it, she still carried scars she couldn’t erase.

Someone like Jamison–he could have his pick of anyone. Why her?

She took a deep breath, giving voice to the turmoil inside. “Let me ask you again: Why do you like me?”

Jamison smiled, silent for a moment. “Do I really need to give you a reason?”

“Yes. You could have anyone, and you chose me.”

He sighed, almost exasperated. “Honestly? I can’t explain it. But if I have to give you a reason—”

His smile widened, warmth in his eyes. “If I absolutely have to, then I guess it’s because you’re so full of life.”

“Full of life?” Ivy was taken aback. She paused, searching his face. “You mean… because I survived after being kidnapped?”

“That’s part of it. But more than that, after everything–coming home, the way your family treated you–you still didn’t break. You fought back, you stayed clearheaded and strong. What you’ve been through… most people would have given up, or worse. But you–”

He drew a steadying breath, his tone utterly sincere. “I don’t even know the right words to use. You have this undefeatable spark, this light that never goes out. I can’t help but be drawn to you.”

Ivy looked down, suddenly shy.

She’d received all kinds of praise in her life, but never something like this. Never something that made her feel almost embarrassed.

It was like she’d finally met someone who could see straight into her soul.

Jamison noticed her silence and, with a gentle smile, reached out to touch her face. “Ivy, do you still have any reason to turn me down?”

Her heart was pounding, her cheeks burning.

Afraid he’d notice the heat in her face, Ivy quickly swatted his hand away. “You should go. Take care of things with your family first.”

“And after that?”

“We’ll see.”

Jamison could tell he’d already won her over. He didn’t push.

Still, he couldn’t resist one last gesture before he left.

Leaning in, he tilted his head and brushed a kiss against her lips.

“Hey!” Ivy jerked back, startled. She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “What was that for?”

She could feel the sticky ointment on her lips.

Jamison, who had been about to get out of the car, caught her look of disgust and bristled with indignation.

He turned back, reached out, and wrapped an arm around her neck, pulling her closer.

Ivy’s eyes went wide. “Jamison, what are you–mmph-”

Before she could finish protesting, his lips were on hers again, this time fierce and unyielding.

Their breaths mingled, the kiss turning heated and intense.

Ivy tried to wriggle free, frowning, but Jamison held her fast, his hand cradling the nape of her neck, keeping her right where he wanted her–like a cat caught by the scruff.

She beat her hands against his chest for a good while before he finally let go.

“That was for your recovery,” he said with a satisfied grin, clearly enjoying himself.

Ivy was not amused. She stuck out her tongue, frantically wiping her lips, and grabbed a tissue to clean off the sticky residue.

Jamison’s face darkened. His tone grew sharp. “What’s that supposed to mean? Is my kiss really that unbearable?”

Ivy glared at him. “Doesn’t your mouth hurt? You’ve got ointment on, and now it’s all over me! Ugh, gross-”

Jamison laughed under his breath, suddenly remembering the antibiotic ointment he’d put on his lip.

After a moment, he reassured her, “It’s just for inflammation. It won’t do you any harm.”

“Get out. I don’t want to look at you.”

“Hey, you shouldn’t talk like that. Not very ladylike.”

Ivy rolled her eyes and stayed silent.

Jamison opened the car door, but before he closed it, he turned back. “Go on, get inside and get some rest. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

Just as he was about to shut the door, Ivy called out, “Wait!”

“What is it?” He leaned down, looking back at her. “Miss me already?”

Ivy ignored him, holding out a little plastic bag with the ointment inside. “Take this. Put some more of it on your face. The worse it looks, the better.”

Jamison caught her meaning, a slow grin spreading across his face. “Ivy… are you worried about me?”