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.

scrutinized under an X-ray as he noticed their gazes fixed on his arm around Vivienne's

arm, pulling her closer into

he could do as he pleased,

tension, took the lead

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 they had set aside

gone, there was no reason for them

you leaving?" Vivienne didn't bother with pleasantries,

others didn't see any issue

never just superficial, and she didn't

Emerald Mountain needed help, a single call from Vivienne would suffice,

and Vivienne wouldn't tolerate anyone messing

Vivienne, his expression softening to one of concern, "We'll be leaving in a bit. Seeing you're okay gives us

long as you're doing well,

in, "Vivienne, this visit was rushed because of work at the company. We can't stay long, but we'll catch up next

brothers, Daniel and Eric, didn't speak, but their concern was evident in their

here early, just to see Vivienne one

were here to support Vivienne, but the opposition was too strong. Instead of helping, they almost made things

the assailants even in a single move,

frustrating to admit their inability

surprised them

had thought Vivienne was merely enchanted by his handsome face, but during the tactical retreat, his strength was revealed to be monstrous, not even slightly inferior to their

looks, but also the

Vivienne was clearly smitten.

Vivienne nodded and then glanced at the closed door of the guest room, "What's

The youngest, Larry, half-jokingly

to retreat to the mountains

possessions, not even

then, if they really wanted those treasures, hiding them in the back

only

of her coach, finding such a dignified excuse to

Grandpa really going to be that hard

who's responsible for