The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Chapter 1152

Godfrey nearly took a tumble down the stairs, if it hadn't been for the quick reflexes of James, the family butler, who steadied him just in time.

It was a close call, and they were all silently thankful that Vivienne was there; otherwise, the fate of their beloved great-grandson might have been sealed from the get-go.

By the time Vivienne and Percival got home, the kids were already asleep. Vivienne checked on them, pulling the blankets up to tuck them in before retiring for the night. Lately, the kids hadn't had much of a chance to go out and have fun. Looking at their peaceful faces, Vivienne felt a surge of tenderness.

"Shall we head to bed?" Percival suggested, wrapping an arm around Vivienne's shoulder.

"How about we find some time to do something fun with the kids? They haven't been out in ages. We could hire a tutor to cover for us so we don't have to worry about their studies," Vivienne proposed.

"That sounds like a great idea. With the tutors taking care of things, we can have a worry-free trip," Percival agreed.

"What are you talking about?" Vivienne sighed, "I meant all of us together, not just the two of us."

Percival glanced at the kids, "They're old enough; why should they tag along with us?"

Vivienne raised an eyebrow, "Take another look at their faces and say that again."

Juliette and Isaiah, in unison: "Is there a chance we're not even ten yet?"

Percival seemed quite pleased with his own reasoning, earning a bemused shake of the head from Vivienne.

we're settled, what about the others? Especially Anna and Soren. They started off on the wrong foot and now Soren's

Plus, someone's been showing an interest in Anna lately. That'll give Soren a bit of a wake-up call."

went back with Floyd. I

saw a stranger standing outside. Initially mistaking him for a suspicious character, he was taken aback when Anna emerged

you here?" Anna's surprise at the man's visit

smiled warmly, handing her a bouquet of roses, "Just wanted to check on you. Noticed you haven't been

and even more so Soren, who overheard the

swamped with the lab, barely had time to check my phone, sorry," Anna

be. I was just worried. I'll be around for a bit. Let's catch up when you're less busy?" Arnold suggested,

Anna escorted him to

It was the first time I saw such an expression on him, like someone was encroaching on his

en

since it was the first she'd heard of Anna having a serious suitor, and their interaction seemed quite intimate. "Alright, enough about them. It's late, Vivienne. Time for you to rest," Percival said, leading

when she saw no hidden

wary reactions were all

do you ask?" Vivienne

We can talk more tomorrow," Percival said, easing the tension. Vivienne sensed the underlying promise and mentally prepared

Recognizing the familiar license plate, she hurried her steps. Arnold Robinson stepped out, offering her a ride, "I'm heading that way too, figured I'd offer you

two drove off, unaware of Soren watching from a nearby car, his gaze darkening as he followed

insisted on picking Anna up

lab, feeling an intense gaze on his back, unaware of the brewing storm