The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

A group huddled in conversation, but Jasper was soon dragged away to the backyard by the playful antics of two kids.

Vivienne, with an exasperated look, turned to Finnian, who was hunched over a box, inspecting its contents for authenticity. "Master, you've accepted the item. It's time to stop beating around the bush." Finnian paused, reluctantly closing the box before his tone shifted. "My dear girl, what do you take me for? Didn't I give you enough clues over the phone yesterday?"

In the whole wide world, if anyone knew Finnian best, Vivienne would proudly claim that spot without hesitation.

Before securing the so-called Heavenly-Snow Lotus, it'd be a cold day in hell before Finnian spilled the real beans.

To Vivienne, it was all about drawing information out of him, piece by piece.

She gave him a knowing look. "Would you really discuss something as valuable as the Heavenly-Snow Lotus over the phone?"

Finnian was momentarily speechless.

Wasn't his caution just to prevent eavesdroppers?

After all, it had taken him three days of relentless research to uncover that information. If it got into the wrong hands, he'd be livid.

The chill in the hall made their tea cool rapidly. Vivienne took a sip and grimaced slightly at its temperature.

Percival, noticing her discomfort, quickly intervened before any further conversation ensued. "Master, Vivienne, maybe it's better to continue this discussion inside. It's quite drafty out here." He then stood, offering his arm to Vivienne and leading her into the parlor.

Finnian, puzzled, looked around, failing to notice any draft.

Perhaps the younger generation was just more health-conscious.

In the parlor, Percival fetched a blanket for Vivienne and handed her a mug of hot water, ensuring her comfort.

Finnian, realizing he was out of the loop, stroked his beard and playfully chided, "Come here, let me check on you. How's your health?"

Vivienne inwardly groaned, fearing this moment.

After a visit to Dr. Sasha, she was already on a ten-day herbal regimen prescribed by Mr. Wolf.

wondered if she'd ever see the light of day

face, she replied, "No need, Master. Let's focus

easily deterred, insisted, "Even your grandfather is in the dark about this. What, you think

simply met his

them all now, we could at least fill a table..." Vivienne's patience was wearing thin,

Percival watched, bemused.

he felt her pulse, "Ah, this is promising. A smooth pulse; it suggests a baby girl. I've always preferred

the news, "Master, are you certain it's

knowing look, teased, "You prefer a

about to agree when he caught Vivienne's eye and quickly corrected himself, "I'll be

before; you're destined to have a good family life. Plenty of children in your

thought to children. But

pair turned their discussion towards fortunes, Vivienne interjected, "Have you seen

more serious tone, "Hold

answered, "She's already taking

who prescribed it?"

but roll her eyes,

then inquired, "Have you

Vivienne frowned, "Not yet."

suspected it might relate to Delilah, but everything -

advised, "Sometimes, the answer isn't on the surface. If you can't identify the cause, best to steer clear of potential triggers. Your well-being is

smiled, "You wouldn't

would you?

suggesting they've

As for the rumor you're

in,

time - the more fantastical, the

involving an ancient ritual of

though their efficacy is unproven. It could all be just

While such tales might seem far-fetched to some, she