The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

As soon as Vivienne descended the stairs, her ears caught wind of the unfolding drama. A sly glimmer crossed her eyes. This was a spectacle she wouldn't miss for the world. Just as Alyssa lowered her gaze, Vivienne interjected, "Hold up there!"

Approaching Alyssa, Vivienne crouched slightly, looking down at her. Her tone was casual but carried an undeniable chill. "Words alone don't cut it. Best to make things a bit more... concrete." Alyssa eyed Vivienne warily. "What are you up to?"

Vivienne's lips curled into a cold smile. "Just returning the favor. You tarnished my mom's reputation online with that video. It's only fair I do the same to you."

With that, Vivienne whipped out her smartphone, angling it at Alyssa's face, searching for the perfect shot.

Just then, a figure caught her eye. Turning around, she gestured, "Dracon's got a knack for photography. Why don't we let him shoot this video!"

Dracon froze. "Me?"

He was clueless about what had gone down the moment he stepped in.

His expression darkened upon seeing Alyssa on the ground.

Alyssa's gaze, fiery and vengeful, turned towards him. Dracon instinctively stepped back, blurting out, "Dad..."

Yorick slapped him across the face. "Dad? Just shoot the damned video. Don't make me remind you of your last mess-up. If you dare side with outsiders against your own family again, I'll break your legs." Arthur chimed in coldly, "You refusing to shoot? Or have you been secretly dealing with Alyssa behind our backs?"

Dracon's eyes widened in denial. "No, I haven't!"

Arthur snorted. "Then get that video on the internet, and don't let me catch you playing both sides."

Trembling, Dracon complied.

Vivienne patted his shoulder after the deed. "Make sure this hits the web. I'm eager to see the reaction."

trickling from the corners of her mouth and

video went live, the internet

apology. Thought

value

Sasha.

apologize isn't enough. Let's make this

so clenched if you're sorry? Hate

last look? Pure

me, or are Sasha and the War God super

mock hurt in her voice,

You always stand tall

Sasha playfully slapped his shoulder.

them off. "Carry on,

"Neither

gulped. "So, I can

reduced to seeking revenge from the

Alyssa to be dragged

dwindled to just Arthur

her milk, casually

subtly. "Just waiting

out, whined, "My wife and daughter, always

couldn't be bothered to

bait set, she doubted

Dracon received a call, the voice on the other end raspy, "Got it