The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

The confidence that came from the ancient martial arts heritage of the Perez family was so formidable that even Percival found himself at a loss for words in front of it.

Vivienne grabbed Jasper by the arm, fearing he might decide to send the entire Perez clan to protect her. "Grandpa, I'm not in any danger, and I'm perfectly healthy. I didn't say anything earlier because I didn't want to stir up trouble at such a critical time. It's not as

complicated as you think."

After a moment of silence, Jasper finally shifted his gaze to Percival, his eyes filled with an intimidating pressure. "Is everything really okay?"

Percival finally found his voice, earnestly explaining to Jasper, "Grandpa, it's my fault. Vivienne was a bit emotional in the early stages of her pregnancy, so after discussing it with my coach, we decided not to disclose this. We didn't anticipate it would lead to such a major misunderstanding."

Hearing this, the tension in Jasper seemed to dissipate, and he waved his hand dismissively, "We're family. There's no need for formalities."

"You did the right thing. Given Vivienne's status, it's always better to be cautious with such significant matters."

With the situation clarified, Jasper's worries were eased.

To Vivienne, who looked a bit pale, he said tenderly, "If Vivienne doesn't want to say anything, I'll act as if I don't know. Not a word to anyone, including your uncles, until you're ready to tell them yourself."

Vivienne and Percival exchanged a look, smiles creeping onto their faces, "Thank you, Grandpa."

Finally, Jasper smiled, nodded, and stood up to leave.

With a young man from the Ellington family by his granddaughter's side, he had nothing to worry about.

At dinner, Jasper managed to suppress the topic in front of everyone, "Vivienne is fine, just go about your business as usual."

Everyone nodded in agreement.

The uncles and aunts adored Vivienne no less than Jasper did. As long as she was fine, they wouldn't interfere too much.

Especially after the head of the family had spoken, they naturally followed suit.

Before leaving, Vivienne went to say goodbye to Finnian.

Just as she entered the backyard, she encountered a group of apprentices standing there like a wall.

felt as if he was being scrutinized under an X-ray as he noticed their gazes fixed on

arm, pulling her closer into his

and wife, he could

the lead in speaking, "What's everyone

the collective annoyance of those around him, Jerry cleared his throat before answering Vivienne's question, "We were just saying goodbye to Vivienne and the coach before we leave." Vivienne knew they all had their own domains to attend to, and their presence here, especially during Abigail's appearance, meant

was gone, there was

Vivienne didn't bother with pleasantries, knowing

didn't see any issue

superficial, and she

knew that if anyone from Emerald Mountain needed help, a single call from

in their presence, and Vivienne wouldn't tolerate anyone messing with the people of

at Percival with a sharp gaze, then turned to Vivienne, his expression softening to one of concern, "We'll be leaving

Vivienne, as long as you're doing well,

chimed in, "Vivienne, this visit was rushed because of work at the company. We

Eric, didn't speak, but their concern was evident

early, just to

was too strong. Instead of helping, they almost

assailants even in a single move, let alone anticipate future

to admit their

truly surprised them was

his strength was revealed to be monstrous, not even slightly inferior

did he have the looks,

Vivienne was clearly smitten.

at the

The youngest, Larry, half-jokingly

coach said he observed the stars last night and foresaw a few days of bad luck ahead. He's decided to

his prized possessions, not

treasures, hiding them in the back

only shake her

finding such a dignified excuse to avoid the

going to be

the way, who's responsible