The Villainess Needs a Hug (Ivy Windsor) novel Chapter 599

Ivy couldn’t help but laugh, shaking her head. “You make it sound like I’m a school kid whose parents have to sit in on classes.

Jamison replied, “It’s perfectly normal to bring a date to an event like this.”

“But it’s different for you,” Ivy protested. “Your presence represents the entire Ludwig family, and people will start all sorts of rumors.”

“My brother’s the one who officially represents the family,” Jamison said, undeterred. “Just tell people I’m your husband, here to play chauffeur.”

He’d made his point crystal clear. If Ivy refused again, things would only get awkward between them.

“Fine,” she relented. “Just get home a little early tomorrow.”

With that, they ended the video call.

Ivy had always been fiercely independent, but now, for the sake of her partner, she found herself trying to adjust old habits. The thought left her uneasy, yet she didn’t want to upset Jamison–or worse, make him worry.

Somewhere along the way, Jamison had become her anchor, her support… but also the one tie she couldn’t break, her greatest vulnerability.

Friday evening.

Ivy arrived early at Golden Maple Estate. All her evening gowns were stored at her place, so she wanted to get ready in advance. Knowing Jamison’s schedule was packed, she decided to save him time by getting dressed and doing her hair and makeup before driving to the luxury condo near the hospital.

That way, once Jamison got off work and changed, they could head straight to the

event.

But just as she hustled over to the condo, her phone rang–Jamison calling.

“Ivy, there are two emergency surgeries, and they’re short–staffed. I have to help out–I won’t be able to come back and go with you.”

His voice was tense, and she could hear him running in the background. There was also an announcement blaring over the PA, calling for doctors from multiple departments to join a critical case. That only happened when things were truly life–or–death.

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Ivy had just stepped inside. Hearing this, she paused, then actually felt a wave of relief. “Go, don’t worry about me,” she said quickly. “I can handle everything on my own.”

“I’ll call Boyd-”

“No need. Go do what you need to. I’ll take care of myself, and I’ll text you as soon

as it’s over.”

She knew every second counted right now, and she didn’t want to be a distraction–only reassurance.

Jamison murmured his thanks and hung up.

Ivy glanced at the time–just about right. She didn’t bother going inside, just switched shoes and headed out again.

She drove to Elysium Towers, arriving with only five minutes to spare before the gala started.

As soon as she stepped out of the car and slipped on her heels, her phone rang.

“Ivy, are you here yet?”

“Mr. Shaw, I just parked. I’ll be right up.”

“Great, looking forward to it.”

After the call, Ivy smoothed her dress and walked briskly toward the club entrance. She flashed her digital invitation and was let in without a hitch.

The gala was formal, the lobby lined with elegant displays bearing the signatures of industry heavyweights.

A hostess handed her a pen, and Ivy accepted it with a smile, turning to sign her own name. Nearby, the PR photographer noticed her striking, unfamiliar face, and immediately snapped a few extra photos, eager to capture her beauty.

“Ivy, you made it,” Edmond greeted her personally.

At thirty–six, Edmond had been divorced for four years and had a seven–year–old a relaxed daughter living with his ex–wife. Tall, successful, still single, he exuc confidence–every hair perfectly in place. Plenty of women in their circle had tried to catch his eye, but he’d never remarried.

Ivy walked up and shook his outstretched hand with a warm smile. “Good evening Mr. Shaw.”

Chapter 599

“It’s been a while, and you’re even more stunning than before,” Edmond said, openly admiring her. “You’ll be the star of the evening, without a doubt.”

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