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.”

grin spread across Vivienne’s face. “Sounds good to

over to the

agree?” He

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

her on our side is

eyes curving into a smile.

Vivienne did exactly as Astrid had anticipated, taking an active

was amazed. “Vivienne, are you sure about this? The company is just getting off the ground. It’s going to be hard work. Why not wait

do you think I can’t help stabilize

don’t want you to overwork yourself. You’re young. You should be enjoying yourself, not trapped in an office with no time to

rest when I need

company, she also moved back into Dorian’s

had always kept her room ready, furnished just how she liked it, so

and Cordelia were indeed busy with company matters from

and verifying various reports, barely able to

go hungry, waiting for his parents to

arrival lightened their load considerably, especially

legacy of perfume formulas was enough to sustain the company, Dorian still

like a fresh rainfall, rich and enduring. I like it,” Cordelia announced, marking one of

one is also fitting. It has a natural, earthy

launch both, the startup costs for two new perfumes were

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

“Mom, Dad, I think these two are both great. Why not ask

heard Astrid mention

of the

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

with the factory. “Astrid, Vivienne, we’re off to the company. Stay safe at home, and if you’re hungry, order some takeout. Don’t skimp on

some cash on

her head at