The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

After Vivienne’s departure, Kaitlyn broke down in tears.

Seeing her distress, Sadie quickly took her by the hand. “Kaitlyn, sweetheart, what’s the matter?”

“Mom, it’s nothing. I’m just so happy,” Kaitlyn said, wiping away her tears. “I can finally see a glimmer of hope.”

Sadie, moved by her words, began to cry as well. “Yes, after all these years, we can finally see some hope.”

Kaitlyn held her mother-in-law’s hand tightly and said in a low voice, “I’m sorry, Mom and Dad, for all the trouble I’ve caused over the years. I’m so grateful that you’ve stood by me through everything.”

“What are you talking about, you silly girl?” Sadie said, patting her hand. “The moment you married Tyler, you became part of this family. Besides, do you think we’re the type to blame you for things beyond your control? None of this is your fault. It’s those people who’ve hurt your family, and now they’re after ours.

Thank goodness for Ms. Hawthorn. She’s no pushover, and with her around, we don’t have to worry about those treasures being stolen from you.”

Kaitlyn nodded. “I never imagined that a favor I did years ago would be remembered for so long. I just hope that once Tyler’s leg heals, we can all work hard to get back on our feet. And when we’re financially stable, we’ll repay Ms. Hawthorn.”

“That’s right,” Sadie agreed. “Ms. Hawthorn’s help is too generous. If it weren’t for her, your father and I might have been left incapacitated. We’ll pay her back. It’s the right thing to do.”

Meanwhile, Julian, after a moment of contemplation, spoke up. “Kaitlyn, I’ve been thinking. Maybe you should entrust the treasure to Ms. Hawthorn. What do you think?”

Kaitlyn paused, contemplating the suggestion.

“Ms. Hawthorn seems very capable. She’s not afraid of the Abernathy family, and she doesn’t seem to care much for ancient warrior lineages either. If that’s the case,

too important. We don’t want it falling into the wrong hands. With our current situation, it’s

relying solely on you. And even then, they wouldn’t stop pursuing you. Maybe it’s better

before speaking. “To be honest, I did consider this. But I don’t know if Ms. Hawthorn would be willing to take

her when she comes over the day after tomorrow?” suggested

“Sounds good.”

…

Abernathy estate was

rage coursing through her veins, and began to smash

study with Harrison Schram discussing business, heard the commotion and

bellowed, “Damn it! What’s wrong with

had no one left who could help

saw the vase coming but stood his ground, the vase shattering against his

this, slapped Victoria. “Have you lost your mind? Is this

swirling in her eyes. “Dad, I’m your daughter. Why do you always side with him? Don’t forget how the Littleton family fell. If he could bring ruin to the Littletons, he could do the same

was a cold command. “I know what kind of man Harrison is better than you do. Remember, he is your husband. Stop treating

turned to Harrison and asked, “Are

fine, Dad,” Harrison replied, wiping the blood from his

a forced smile, “My dear, are you upset about Kaitlyn? Is

smile harbored

stopped by Gavin’s icy stare. Swallowing her retort, she said bitterly, “It’s not just that she won’t give up the treasure. She has someone powerful behind her, someone so young yet with unfathomable skills. Walter and I couldn’t even land a hit; we were