The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Vivienne cast a derisive glance at Judith, a sneer etching the corners of her lips. “Judith, do I need to remind you that my mom has only one daughter?”

Judith’s face turned a shade of ashen fury.

That was why her attitude towards Vivienne had turned frosty since she learned that Calista was Scott’s daughter.

Vivienne was the proverbial ungrateful brat. No matter how kind they were to her, how much they poured out their hearts, she always took their kindness for granted, mistaking their genuine concern for meddling interference!

She always acted like she did not give a hoot about the Brooks family.

At first, Judith tolerated Vivienne’s insolence because she owed her life to her. But now…

Scott was not only Calista’s father!

Since Vivienne did not cherish their goodwill, then it was time to lavish all their affection on Calista.

Vivienne gave Judith a sidelong glance, her gaze finally settling on Calista. With a tone of indifference, she said, “Don’t call me family anymore. You don’t deserve it.”

With those words, Vivienne turned on her heel, ready to leave.

Calista, teeth clenched as if nursing a deep grievance, called out, “Vivienne, if you keep this up, the Brooks family won’t be able to put up with you anymore.”

“Oh, really?” Vivienne’s gaze flicked to Scott. “Mr. Brooks, are you going to throw me out?”

Scott fell silent for a moment before saying, “I won’t throw you out.”

Vivienne’s lips curled into a faint smile, and without another word to them, she entered her room.

Once in her room, she pulled out her phone and made a call.

“Vivienne.” The voice on the other end greeted, laced with a hint of warmth.

Vivienne poured herself a glass of water, took a sip, and then said, “Calista’s been brought back.”

There was a brief pause on the line before Percival responded in his typically measured tone, “It seems someone has grown impatient.”

“The virus lab of Mr. B hasn’t been found yet,” Vivienne stated coldly.

started. Don’t worry. I will do everything in my power to save those children.”

leave Vanguard Agency to you. I’ll find

“Will do.”

Scott looked at Calista, well aware of the humiliation she had endured. He swiftly suggested, “Since yesterday was a misunderstanding, let’s throw

“Thank you, Dad.”

the subject, but Scott spoke first. Naturally, she accepted, seizing the opportunity to clear up

as she could restore her reputation, Calista still had

it matter if it was

in

Considering that the decorations from the previous night had not been completely taken down, they simply made some adjustments and sent out invitations for the

were all too aware of yesterday’s fiasco and were curious about another reunion party

had clarified that the entire Brooks family must attend Calista’s party, but Kala

she grew increasingly envious. “How many times has this

were dripping

beside herself

to give

so great about

Kala’s

stand up for her just

don’t mind those words. Today is your welcome party, and we must redeem ourselves,” Mila said,

to the Brooks family. Though Scott had yet to recognize her,

as that connection existed, she had plenty

fists clenching. “Mom, I’ve got a plan. My experiment made progress a few days ago. Once I

girl. Now that you’re a Brooks, you must secure the marriage contract with the Ellingtons,” Mila said, her eyes seething with hatred

That little wretch!

like her mother, always stealing the men others

equally elegant evening gown—yesterday’s having been ruined—Calista stood with her signature smile, waiting for guests to

night grew darker, not

Calista’s smile stiffened.

one person came

disrespecting

this a

then, headlights

her gown and hurried forward with a renewed smile as only one man

Percival!

Ellingtons had