The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Every time Vivienne spent time with Jasper, she felt a warmth envelop her.

This warmth was different from the kind she felt in the company of Dorian.

Dorian’s kindness stemmed from his affection for her mother and, by extension, to her, much like Cordelia had shown.

Though it was a case of loving the house and its crow, it was genuine through and through.

But with Jasper, it felt as if it was innate.

Especially when Jasper looked at her, his gaze held the same affection as when he looked at Natalia.

Vivienne had a long chat with Jasper in the ward, where Zelda had brought out an array of snacks, fussing over her like a child.

When it was time to leave, Vivienne said her goodbyes, “I’ll come see you again next time. It’s going to get colder in a few days. Make sure you wear more than just that thin shirt.”

Jasper nodded vigorously. “Yes, yes, I’ll go shopping for some warm clothes tomorrow; bundle myself up nice and cozy.”

Zelda sighed from the side. “You only listen to Vivienne. I’ve been telling you to dress warmer, but you never pay heed.”

They all shared a laugh, and with that, Vivienne got up to leave.

Once she was gone, Jasper’s smile slowly faded, tinged with a hint of reluctance.

“Is everything collected?” Jasper asked.

Zelda nodded. “Don’t worry, Dad. I’ve kept the cup Vivienne used. I’ll hand it over to Yuri tonight and have him personally supervise the paternity test.”

Jasper sighed silently and sat back down, continuing to play with his granddaughters.

…

Meanwhile, Vivienne returned to the Brooks Mansion.

Pushing the door open, a chill swept through, prompting her to wrap her coat tighter. Just as she was about to head to her room, she encountered Baron.

greeted

his eyes hesitating on

“Something on

asked, “Do you

her icy gaze briefly scanning Baron,

worried. Could you ask Percival to look into

making it

think it’s necessary, Baron,” Vivienne replied with a hum,

for a long while before he left

window, watching Baron’s car slowly drive away, the corners of her lips curling

arrived at an

the heavy scent of blood

stepped forward,

the couch, with medical supplies scattered

to evade the Vanguard Agency’s surveillance and return to his apartment with Baron’s help.

during his escape,

for Baron, he would either have perished at sea

yet, to your disappointment,” Scott responded

surprise.

“I know.”

interested in further conversation. After changing

to the resounding slam of the door, his

Vivienne prepared for a relaxing bath and sleep at the Brooks Mansion, she received an

go out for dinner. Mom and Dad

identity was revealed, Dorian and Cordelia had moved out of Percival’s apartment and bought their own place.

of a succulent, Vivienne replied unhurriedly,

called ‘Haven.’ Invite your husband, too. Let’s have

give him a call.” Vivienne’s gaze shifted to the

the call, she texted Percival to see if he was

not join. Just as she

thought, “That’s

dinner, only a fool would not be