The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Asher quirked an eyebrow. His voice always softened when he spoke to beautiful women. "Madeline, you sure have a way with words that Gavin lacks. But my mind's made up. Tell Gavin to get his act together. Don't worry about me. I'm not after any secret recipe. Truth be told, I've got a bone to pick with Vivienne. This time, I'm going after her!"

Sophie sashayed into the room. "Dad, just say yes. Mr. Grimshaw wants to lend a hand. With the Ellingtons backing Vivienne, it wouldn't hurt to have more muscle on our side, right?"

She placed a plate of pastries in front of Asher, her eyes shy and flirty. "Mr. Grimshaw, I made these treats myself. They're best enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Please, have a taste." Asher's gaze lingered briefly on Sophie's face, clearly seeing through her manipulations and seduction.

His lips curved into a subtle smirk, casting a meaningful glance at the frowning Gavin as he picked a pastry. "Not bad at all. Gavin, your wife is thoughtful, and your daughter has skills. You're one lucky guy." Gavin managed a forced smile. "You're flattering me. Please, eat as much as you'd like."

His eyes darkened as they swept over Sophie and Madeline. "Since you're so set on going, I'll round up some extra men. Once we've got Vivienne, you can do as you please with her."

In the quiet suburb of Rivenwood, Vivienne had notified Gavin of the new meeting time, considering they still had a court session to attend.

In a secluded forest stood a dilapidated factory, where Vivienne, clad in black leather, her hair pulled into a high ponytail, stood guard beside Kaitlyn like the most devoted bodyguard, flanked by ten young men in black hoodies, each exuding a chilling aura that made Asher and his crew hesitate for a moment upon entering.

Asher's pride was wounded, and his face darkened as he locked his venomous gaze on Vivienne, never wavering.

Vivienne, oblivious to the tension, looked past Asher to Gavin, her voice icy, "Gavin, did you bring it?"

Gavin's face was stone cold. "I should be asking you that, Ms. Hawthorn. Where's the secret recipe?"

Vivienne lightly shook the wooden box in Kaitlyn's hands, drawing everyone's attention.

Her lips curled into a taunting smile. "Where's my item?"

Asher, annoyed by Vivienne's youthful yet unflappable demeanor, scoffed and gestured. Then a man approached carrying two urns.

"Ms. Hawthorn, sometimes I really admire your confidence. But tell me, what makes you think you can negotiate with us now?"

it over now, or don't blame

box, and took out an aged

red glow and the dance of flames

hue hovered beneath the paper as Vivienne held it there, causing Gavin and Asher's hearts

"You're mad!"

and fearless, Vivienne taunted, "Wouldn't it be fun to turn this

flames inched closer to the

"You useless trash! Why did you have to provoke her? Haven't been put in your place by her yet, have you?" "Who do

the ears. Hand over the goods, or I swear, I'll scatter these ashes to the wind!" "No!" Kaitlyn screamed

down

twitched,

in frustration as she handed over the secret

with malice, then suddenly feigned outrage as if he were a master of disguise. "You cunning Vivienne, giving us a fake recipe and expecting the ashes in return?

her interrogated

"Yes, sir!"

turned to ice, a mocking laugh escaping her. "You think you can capture me? Let's see if

said, "Today, you won't escape. The Grimshaw dungeons are ready

dodged the

Whoosh!

silver

side, rolling to a corner of the factory, his men

was now wide open to Vivienne and

roared in rage,

he tucked away the barely perceptible chill in his eyes, huddled in a corner, watching the