Chapter 57

Ivy gently stroked Aaron’s thigh under the table, mischief dancing in her eyes. Aaron, I know you're planning to punish me, she thought. But how could I pass up the chance to tease you? Just then, her mother reached out and took her hand. Her eyes narrowed as she noticed something on Ivy’s finger. “What is this?” Tati asked. Ivy stammered, “It—it’s a ring, Mom.” “Who gave it to you?” “I-I...” Ivy hesitated, searching for words. “My friend, Mom,” she added quickly. “Friend?” Tati repeated, clearly unconvinced. “Yes, don’t look at it too much,” Ivy mumbled, pulling her hand back. “It’s mine.” "I'm not going to give you my ring." Tati frowned. “Franklin, did you hear that?” she said to Franklin. “Why don’t you buy Mom a ring too, Dad?” Ivy added. “I don’t like when people touch my stuff,” she said, her tone teasing yet defiant. Franklin chuckled. “Alright, baby, I’ll buy one for your mom too.” But Tati wasn’t letting it go. “Franklin, ask her again—who gave her that ring?” “It’s just a fr