The Villainess Needs a Hug (Ivy Windsor) novel Chapter 718

“I’m not exaggerating. You’re beautiful, you just don’t realize it yourself–which is probably why you can’t imagine how much amaze everyone else.”

you

There was something about the way girls complimented each other–it always sounded so genuine. Ivy couldn’t help laughing, delighted by the praise.

The two of them hit the mall and shopped with abandon. Watching Sophia’s effortless spending and sharp eye for style, Ivy guessed her friend must come from a pretty well–off family, too.

Maybe running a coffee shop was just a hobby for her.

They finally plopped down on a bench, worn out, when Sophia’s phone rang.

“Ivy, guess who’s calling?” Sophia pulled out her phone, putting on a mysterious air.

Ivy’s curiosity was piqued. “Who is it?”

It couldn’t possibly be Jamison.

“It’s Dale,” Sophia replied, muttering, “Wasn’t he working overtime this morning…?”

She answered the call as she spoke.

“Hey. Yeah… No, I’m not at the hotel–I’m out shopping with Ivy at Harbor City Mall. You want to join us? Sure! If someone’s treating, I’m all for it. See you soon, then…”

After hanging up, Sophia tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, grinning. “Dale Sullivan says he’s finally done with work and wants to take us out for a meal.”

Ivy remembered her little joke with Jamison that morning and, trying to sound casual, asked, “What made him call you out of the blue?”

“Oh, he said he sent a message to the group chat. Jay’s already on his way to the airport, and Coach Murphy’s got a flight at three this afternoon. He saw I hadn’t replied and decided to call instead.”

Sure enough, when Ivy checked WhatsApp, she saw Dale’s message in the group.

Jay had already texted that he’d arrived at the airport. Both Ivy and Sophia quickly sent their goodbyes: “Safe travels–let’s get together again soon.”

Turns out, she’d overthought things.

It was close to one when Dale Sullivan finally showed up at the mall.

09:39

“Sorry to keep you waiting. The office is a bit of a trek from here, he apolon Dale was average height, average looks, but he radiated humility and good manners. He left a solid first impression.

Sophia waved off his apology. “Forget it. Let’s head upstairs and find someplace to eat before we pass out from hunger.”

They took the elevator to the top floor, where all the restaurants were.

“Order whatever you like. Lunch is on me–no need to save me money, Dale declared grandly.

Sophia didn’t stand on ceremony. “How about Japanese?”

Dale looked at Ivy, who nodded. “Sure.”

Truth be told, Ivy wasn’t exactly a fan of Japanese food, but she didn’t mind it either.

Both she and Dale were locals, so it was only right to let their out–of–town guest pick.

So the three of them headed into a Japanese place.

Just after they’d ordered, Ivy’s phone rang–Jamison.

She didn’t bother to step away, just answered right there at the table.

“Still out shopping?” Jamison had seen the group chat updates, and knew his wife was out with Bob and the others.

“Yeah, we just sat down for lunch. Dale Sullivan’s here too. Want to join us?” Ivy asked offhandedly.

“I wish. I’ve got a surgery coming up. Just calling to let you know I’ll be working late. You can either wait for me at home or head to your parents‘ place first.”

“I’ll wait for you at home.”

“Alright. I’ll let you eat. Talk later.”

Jamison was always busy–when he said he had to go, he meant it.

As Ivy set down her phone, Dale instantly asked, “Is Dr. Ludwig coming to join us?”

“No, he’s got surgery.”

Sophia’s eyes sparkled with admiration. “After you told me about Dr. Luwig last night. I looked him up online. He’s incredible! So young, already a professor and

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