The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Vivienne did not reply immediately. Instead, she simply gazed at Astrid, waiting for her to continue.

Feeling a bit anxious, Astrid elaborated, “Don’t get me wrong, Vivienne. I’m not saying that Percival isn’t treating you well. I’m just thinking, with the Ellington family being such a prestigious and influential family, it’s a complex world out there. If you had enough confidence and strength, you wouldn’t need to put up with any discomfort there.”

Vivienne nodded slightly, “You make a good point.”

Astrid let out a sigh of relief. “I’m glad you understand what I’m getting at. I hope I haven’t overstepped.”

“Not at all,” Vivienne replied, taking a sip of her drink, “I can contribute some innovative fragrance formulas at the company, which could quickly build a reputation for us.”

Astrid felt an awkward sense of being seen through and could only force a chuckle, taking a sip of her water to cover her nerves. “You’re right. It’s a win-win situation, isn’t it?”

Vivienne raised an eyebrow, a subtle gleam in her eyes.

After dinner, it was getting late. Alfred pulled the car up to the mall to pick up Astrid.

“Vivienne, let me drive you two back,” Alfred called out, rolling down his window.

“No need, we drove here,” Vivienne declined coolly.

“Alright then. Take care,” Alfred waved and drove off with Astrid.

Watching their car disappear into the distance, Vivienne’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully.

Percival draped his jacket over Vivienne’s shoulders, his fingertips lightly touching her cheek, “Getting impatient?”

She nodded. “More than I expected. It’s quite dull.”

He wrapped an arm around her waist and ushered her into the car, saying, “Then let’s take our time. As long as you’re happy.”

Vivienne’s face. “Sounds good to

to the side

agree?” He

“Yes, she’ll be joining the company soon. She’s a natural at this, so coming up with a few perfume formulas will be

Having someone like her on our side

Alfred, her eyes curving into

had anticipated, taking an active role at

ground. It’s going to be hard work. Why not wait until things are more stable before you join? It would be easier

I can’t

yourself. You’re young.

when I

the company, she also moved back into Dorian’s

how she liked it, so she

said, Dorian and Cordelia were indeed busy with company

discussing and verifying various reports, barely able to catch their

hungry, waiting for his

load

enough to sustain the company, Dorian still wanted to develop

a fresh rainfall, rich and enduring. I

is also fitting. It has a natural, earthy scent.”

the startup costs for two new perfumes were substantial for a fledgling

in, examining both formulas. The numbers of the formulas were very detailed, and the ingredients used were accurate. She carefully read both formulas, the gleam in her eyes getting

she suggested, “Mom, Dad, I think these two are both great. Why not ask Vivienne which one

Vivienne heard Astrid mention her and said, “Thaddeus,

excitedly picked one of

her favorite. “I win! We’ll launch this one. I’ll immediately discuss the launch strategy with the

the factory. “Astrid, Vivienne, we’re off to the company.

cash on the

at