The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

At a quaint little farmhouse.

Finnian, scrolling through Twitter trends, clicked his tongue in annoyance. “That damn girl! It’s just a bit of debt. Does she really need to chase me down for so long?”

Next to him sat a man in his mid-forties wearing a tracksuit.

The man glanced at his phone, then at Finnian. “Told you not to gallivant around, but no, you wouldn’t listen. Did you really think she wouldn’t find you?”

Setting his phone aside, Finnian poured himself a glass of whiskey and downed it before facing the man. “What does it matter? I would never have left my precious disciple for so long if it wasn’t for you. After all these years, not a soul came to check in on me. I’m starting to miss the kid’s medicinal cooking. Of course, her usual meals were delicious, too.”

The corner of the man’s mouth twitched. “You sure you can call that food?”

Finnian’s eyes widened. “Cut the sarcasm. My disciple’s cooking was delicious. It’s just you unappreciative folks who would say otherwise.”

“Fine! As long as you’re happy,” the man replied, clearly ending the conversation.

Finnian grumbled and took another swig of whiskey, then after a moment of silence, he said, “Look, how long are you gonna keep this up? Don’t outsmart yourself. That girl’s got a fiery temper. I tricked her once, and she nearly dug up my grave. With you… Well, you’re in for it!”

The man chuckled dryly. “You better worry about yourself. She’s found her way to Rivenwood. You can’t keep hiding forever.”

Finnian scowled. “If you’ve got nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all! Such a buzzkill.”

The man just shrugged and ignored him.

…

At the Ellington Group.

Fiona was clearing out her desk. The design department staff greeted her warmly, clearly sad to see her go.

sure you all keep up the good work after I leave, and get those new products launched soon

Ellington brought it in himself, a masterpiece

flicker of jealousy passed through Fiona’s eyes, quickly masked

well masked, in fact, everyone thought she

she’s met the legend herself,

Jessica look like? Can we have a

or what? Just get me an autograph, Fiona,

were not aware of Vivienne’s true identity as Master Jessica, and Percival had made sure those who did know kept it

master. Now that I’m leaving the

staff did not press the issue but were visibly disappointed. Fiona had been incredibly popular at the company. With her departure, there was uncertainty about who

leaving the Ellington Group, Fiona made a

“Do it!”

…

and Vivienne were heading

lab, you won’t have the same freedom

replied, her eyes closed,

this, Astrid did

Vivienne off at the lab, saying, “Take care, Vivienne. I’ve got other tasks to attend to, so I’ll leave

her off and slipped on a pair of white gloves, which snugly wrapped around her

turned to the

…

the Ellington

ill, collapsing unconscious. The private doctor could find no cause, and even the renowned

medical skills? Why not call her over?” Henry muttered, but seeing Percival’s stern face, he did

brow was furrowed. “I

are of any use. What good was it for my dad to care for you?” Henry scoffed, then

when Fiona hurried in. “Excuse me,

behind Fiona. “Mr.

waiting for a response, Heloise pushed Calista into the room. “Go on, Calista. Dad can’t wait much longer. Are we supposed