The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

While the uncles settled their friendly wagers, the aunties had already encircled Vivienne in lively conversation.

“Sweetie, I heard you were back in town and didn’t have time to rustle up anything fancy. So, I’ve got these few properties for you. Prime real estate, all of them. Should you not fancy any, we’ll shop around for others.”

How could they be anything but prime? Situated in the heart of major cities, Vivienne would never lack a place to call home wherever she went!

“Darling, since she has gifted you homes, how about I throw in some wheels? I heard you have a taste for motorcycles, sports cars, and off-roaders. They’re all parked in the garage for you, ready to be picked up. If they don’t suit your fancy, we’ll get you something else.”

Each vehicle was a limited edition, the kind Vivienne had only seen in Percival’s private collection.

“And Vivienne, I still love getting you dresses. I’ve bought heaps, complete with matching jewelry, all tucked away in those closets. Just a start, we’ll hit the shops for more!”

Just a start? Zelda’s dress collection for Vivienne was so extensive she could change every hour and not run out of options!

Karen chuckled and handed Vivienne a bracelet.

“Willa handcrafted this; she asked me to give it to you.” Karen slipped the bracelet onto Vivienne’s wrist.

Ever since Willa learned Vivienne was Karen’s daughter, she had started crafting this bracelet, meticulously carving each bead with patience uncharacteristic of her usual self.

“Thank you all, Aunties. And Mom, please extend my gratitude to Auntie Willa, too.” Vivienne’s heart swelled with emotion, filling a void she did not realize she had.

From then on, she was no longer alone in this world.

She had a mother, a grandfather, loving uncles and aunties.

And, of course, her beloved Mr. Wolf!

Vivienne’s gaze met Percival’s, her eyes brimming with joy.

From their first encounter, it was her radiant eyes that had captivated him.

could see the happiness

he, as a lover,

was grateful to witness the most joyous moments of

could be there to accompany her

“In-law!”

voice, aged yet excited, called from beyond the door. Percival went to

was unmistakably

of the Perez family could

followed by the heavily laden Nathan Ellington

as Vivienne’s mother. She approached, gripping Karen’s hands with fervor, “I’m Percival’s mother. It’s finally a pleasure to meet you. Thank

acquainted with Cecilia, having met her

looking after Vivienne when I couldn’t. You’ve been

Karen’s hands, added, “We have others eager to

it must be

would you bring your father and

Vivienne stepped outside. Dorian and Cordelia, moved by Karen’s invitation, felt an overwhelming

and Cordelia were flooded with emotion upon seeing Karen after so

was a cherished

too long.” Karen opened her arms and

met Karen for the first time, yet

too long

words, both Dorian and

joy, and even guests like Melissa and Vance felt right at

Everyone there was family.

to Vivienne’s surprise, she and Percival became the unintended

sat with stern

with her strawberry cheesecake, unsure whether to eat or not under the intense gazes

her slightly, spoke up, “Grandpa Jasper and Richard, whatever you want

taken aback: It’s news to us that our young master is timid.