The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Finnian was skeptical, "It's an interesting theory, but not very practical."

"No magic or trick has ever allowed anyone to live that long, and even if it did, maintaining youthfulness without any signs of aging on the face or body? Highly unlikely."

Vivienne was about to probe further when Kellan Reed and Geoffrey, each with a drink in hand, appeared behind her. "Finnian, a toast to you on this fine day. The kids' wedding wouldn't be happening without your help!" Finnian's eyes lost their sharpness as he turned around with a smile, "Oh, you're making too much of it. They're practically family."

That phrase alone brought the two families closer together.

Kellan shot Geoffrey a smug look.

Just moments ago, weren't they at each other's throats?

Who else would think of gifting a bomb as a dowry? On the wedding day, would the Martinez family bring in a fighter jet to display in their backyard?

It seemed to highlight the Martinez family's contributions to national defense.

Over the years, the Reed family had donated generously to the nation, especially in scientific research. Kellan's son had been donating a third of his income annually, following a long-standing family tradition. Their contributions were just directed differently, but both families were equally patriotic.

So, the Martinez family's weapon research was considered a contribution, but his money wasn't?

Without funding, what would they research with?

Geoffrey, not one to back down, stepped forward with his drink, "Master, the wedding is set for next spring, but there seems to be an extra month according to the lunar calendar. What do you make of it?" The three old foxes gathered, each with their own agenda.

Finnian knew he was walking into a trap.

It was Leopold's wedding date he had chosen; he was well aware of any potentially inauspicious timings.

But then he remembered the precious box he had received from the Martinez family.

Could he pretend to be drunk now?

Vivienne, listening on the side, wanted to laugh.

Caught in a bind because he had accepted a gift, Finnian had to think fast. "Well... getting married during an extra lunar month does have its superstitions. It's best to avoid it if possible, otherwise, the date must be pushed back." Geoffrey shrugged, "Then it looks like we'll have to delay it."

Kellan, panicking, nearly dropped his glass, "No, no, the date was meticulously chosen. We can't push it back; we have to move it earlier if anything."

retorted, "But this is what the

daughter away right before New Year's? Sure, your family will be happy, but what about me? My granddaughter will be gone, and

Finnian in desperation, "Master, is there no

stroked his beard, "There is... but it's a bit of a

long as it doesn't delay the

and shoes for each member of

"Make clothes?"

Geoffrey's calm demeanor, frowned,

"Questioning the master's words? Seems like you're not keen on keeping the wedding

everyone's measurements and shoe sizes. Then find someone over eighty to cut the fabric, so the blessings

with victory, ready for

presume these are your other disciples, all looking quite exceptional. And to think you consider our Leopold your favorite, I'm truly humbled." The

Who said that?

poor eyesight, one couldn't make such a wild

each disciple considered

could Leopold, always the crybaby, be

this wine's

Vivienne, "..."

longer. "Mr. Wolf, I'm full. Shall

Percival smiled, "Sure."

Kellan and Geoffrey,

realizing the awkwardness, quickly made their excuses

she reminded her fellow disciples to take good care of

but once Vivienne was

acting.

you the longest.

Leopold over

clear this up

her breath outside, received a call

voice, frantic and unusual for her calm demeanor, came through, "Vivienne,

was rare for Anna to lose her

"What's wrong?"

blurting

the line