Bella's POV
I didn't spare Genevieve a glance, keeping my attention fixed on Ursula instead. I was waiting for her to speak.
Ursula met my unusually bright gaze and offered a gentle smile. "Go ahead, I need to have a word with your mother."
Ivy reached for my arm, but I quickly pulled back.
I bowed respectfully to Ursula before moving forward and heading for the exit.
"Bella, wait for me!" Ivy called out in that sweet, innocent tone of hers, flashing a smile as she trailed behind.
Once outside, I caught Martha's eye. She gave a subtle nod before slipping into the room.
I made my way toward the garden, stopping beside a small rockery. Ivy must have caught the ice in my expression because she froze, not daring to come closer.
"What scheme are you cooking up now?" I asked, my voice cutting.
Ivy's face crumpled into that practiced look of wounded innocence, tears gathering in her eyes before she spoke. "Bella, why would you say such a thing?"
