Chapter 51

Ivy stepped out with Ame and Selena, her eyes drifting toward the guests below. From the second-floor railing, she spotted Aaron talking with a few of them. Mid-conversation, he suddenly glanced up. Their eyes met. He gave her a soft smile and began walking toward the stairs. As she made her way down, Aaron reached out with a gentle hand, the way a prince might offer his to a princess. Ivy smiled and placed her hand in his. He brought it to his lips and kissed it lightly. “Hello, my princess,” he murmured. “Hello, my king,” she replied with a smile. They shared a warm moment before her father appeared beside them. “My princess,” he greeted. “Daddy,” Ivy said, wrapping her arms around him in a loving hug. Mr. Mark stepped forward next. “Ivy, happy birthday, my sweetheart.” “Thank you, Uncle,” she replied cheerfully. Then her eyes flicked to Arona. The woman gave her a forced smile. “Happy birthday, Ivy,” Arona said. “Thank you,” Ivy responded, mirroring her polite but distant tone. “Let