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.

he could see the happiness shimmering in those

as a lover, could never

was grateful to witness the

there to accompany her in her happiness every

“In-law!”

excited, called from beyond the door. Percival went

unmistakably his

of the Perez family could greet with

inside, followed by the heavily laden Nathan Ellington and Cecilia

Karen 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 you for raising such a

met her

Vivienne when

others eager to meet you, but they’re a bit shy about

knew it must be the Hawthorn

your father and

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

the room, Dorian and Cordelia were flooded with emotion upon seeing Karen after

was a cherished friend, their bond beyond the confines

it’s been too long.” Karen opened her

yet

been too

full of words, both Dorian and Cordelia found

even guests like

Everyone there was family.

Percival became the unintended stars of

and Richard sat with stern faces, scrutinizing

hesitated with her strawberry cheesecake, unsure whether to eat

want to say, just say it. Don’t stare

news to us that our young