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.

of the Abernathy family, and she doesn’t seem to care much for

I think Dad’s right. It’s not that we’re afraid or avoiding trouble, but the treasure is too important. We don’t want it falling into

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

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

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

“Sounds good.”

…

town, the Abernathy

coursing through her veins,

Harrison Schram discussing business, heard the

Gavin bellowed, “Damn

Kaitlyn had no one

stood his ground, the vase shattering against his head as blood

lost your mind? Is

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

man Harrison is better than you do. Remember, he

and asked, “Are

replied, wiping the blood from

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

harbored

out, but was 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