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."

is what the

New Year's? Sure, your family will be happy, but what about me? My granddaughter will be gone, and I'll be left all alone during the

was at a loss for words, turning to Finnian in desperation,

is... but it's a bit of

it doesn't

clothes and shoes for each member of the bride's family.

"Make clothes?"

eyeing Geoffrey's calm demeanor, frowned, "Does buying them not

words? Seems like you're not keen on keeping

must personally take everyone's measurements and shoe sizes. Then find someone over eighty

eyes flashed with victory, ready for

leave, his gaze fell on a group nearby, counting exactly eight people. He immediately brightened, "Master, I presume these are your other disciples, all looking quite exceptional. And to think you consider our Leopold your favorite, I'm

Who said that?

one couldn't make such

Percival, each disciple considered themselves

the crybaby, be

wine's hit

Vivienne, "..."

any longer. "Mr. Wolf, I'm full. Shall we take a

Percival smiled, "Sure."

to Kellan and Geoffrey, they

Geoffrey, realizing the awkwardness, quickly made their excuses and left, their

take good care

Vivienne

no more acting. Who's your

been with you the longest.

saying you prefer Leopold over us, even with

to clear this up

catching her breath outside, received a call from

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

brow furrowed. It was rare for Anna to lose her

"What's wrong?"

have seen a ghost, urgently blurting out,

the line went