The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

In the grand living room of the estate, Yorick and Richard took their seats at the head of the gathering, the patriarchs of their respective families. Their children and grandchildren were seated on either side, with Percival finding a spot next to Cecilia.

Yorick, always the gracious host, had his staff bring out the finest tea and pastries. Today was a joyous occasion, a day to discuss the nuptials of their grandchildren, and he was determined to celebrate in style.

Richard wasted no time getting to the point. "Yorick, old friend, I'll cut to the chase. Sasha and Arthur's wedding went off without a hitch, and we really can't delay Vivienne and Percival's any longer." "We need to have them walk down the aisle by the end of next month. It would fulfill an old man's dying wish," he added, a twinkle in his eye.

Yorick chuckled. "The kids' big day is long overdue. Let's just make sure it's exactly to their liking."

Richard had braced himself for a tough negotiation, aware of how much Arthur doted on his daughter Vivienne, and knowing Yorick was just as attached to his granddaughter. He was pleasantly surprised by Yorick's agreeable response.

"Ha! The Ellington heir's wedding will be the event of the season. Rest assured, Vivienne won't be disappointed. And they'll have their own place post-wedding but are always welcome here," Richard assured with a hearty laugh.

Raising his glass, Yorick clinked it with Richard's. "That's all I needed to hear."

delve into the wedding plans, Arthur suddenly interjected, "Hold on a

paused, sensing

several stern gazes, reluctantly invoked the

not that we're unwilling to give Vivienne away. It's just

confidence wavered under

are on

suggested, only to be met with a loud and clear endorsement of Percival's plans from Maddox, one of

room erupted in laughter

everything was alread settled, Vivienne, the bride-to-be, could

to be humorously reminded by Sasha of the importance of keeping good relations with Percival for the

to proceed with the wedding plans, realizing his daughter's happiness—and his own posthumous arrangements—were at

patiently waited