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

pulled over to the side

she agree?” He

soon. She’s a natural at this, so coming up with a few perfume formulas will be a breeze. Now, it’s just a

genius. Having someone like her on our side is

curving into a smile.

Astrid had anticipated, taking an

this? The company is just getting off the ground. It’s going to be hard work. Why not

think I can’t help stabilize the

mean that. I just don’t want you to overwork yourself. You’re young. You should be enjoying yourself, not trapped

when I need

Vivienne joining the company, she

room ready, furnished just how she liked

were indeed busy with company matters from dawn

discussing and verifying various reports, barely able to

go hungry, waiting for his parents

arrival lightened their load considerably, especially regarding fragrance

to sustain the company, Dorian still wanted

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

fitting. It has a

they could launch both, the startup costs

The numbers of the formulas were very detailed, and the ingredients used were accurate. She carefully read both formulas, the gleam

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

with Thaddeus and his Lego, Vivienne heard Astrid mention her and

one of

Thaddeus picked her favorite. “I win! We’ll launch this one. I’ll

off to the company. Stay safe at home, and if you’re hungry, order some takeout. Don’t

cash on the table and

shook her head at