The Million-Dollar Heart

Every time Vivienne spent time with Jasper, she felt a warmth envelop her.

This warmth was different from the kind she felt in the company of Dorian.

Dorian's kindness stemmed from his affection for her mother and, by extension, to her, much like Cordelia had shown.

Though it was a case of loving the house and its crow, it was genuine through and through.

But with Jasper, it felt as if it was innate.

Especially when Jasper looked at her, his gaze held the same affection as when he looked at Natalia.

Vivienne had a long chat with Jasper in the ward, where Zelda had brought out an array of snacks, fussing over her like a child.

When it was time to leave, Vivienne said her goodbyes, "I'll come see you again next time. It's going to get colder in a few days. Make sure you wear more than just that thin shirt."

Jasper nodded vigorously. "Yes, yes, I'll go shopping for some warm clothes tomorrow; bundle myself up nice and cozy."

Zelda sighed from the side. "You only listen to Vivienne. I've been telling you to dress warmer, but you never pay heed."

They all shared a laugh, and with that, Vivienne got up to leave.

Once she was gone, Jasper's smile slowly faded, tinged with a hint of reluctance.

"Is everything collected?" Jasper asked.

Zelda nodded. "Don't worry, Dad. I've kept the cup Vivienne used. I'll hand it over to Yuri tonight and have him personally supervise the paternity test." Jasper sighed silently and sat back down, continuing to play with his granddaughters.

Meanwhile, Vivienne returned to the Brooks Mansion.

Pushing the door open, a chill swept through, prompting her to wrap her coat tighter. Just as she was about to head to her room, she encountered Baron. "Baron," Vivienne greeted him coolly.

responded, his eyes hesitating on

noticed, "Something on your

moment of silence, Baron asked, "Do you know where your father might

icy gaze briefly scanning

don't. I'm a bit worried. Could you ask Percival to look into it?

gaze dropped, making it

it's necessary, Baron," Vivienne replied with a hum, then retreated to her

door for a long while

stood by her bedroom window, watching Baron's car slowly drive away,

arrived at an

the heavy scent

Baron stepped

with medical supplies scattered on

Agency's surveillance

wrist had almost crippled his hand, and during his escape, Percival's bullets had riddled his body. His injuries, aggravated by a near drowning

perished at sea or died from

to your disappointment,"

accustomed to Scott's demeanor, showed no surprise. "I didn't lead Percival and

"I know."

Baron off, clearly not interested in further conversation. After changing his

to the resounding slam of the

at the Brooks

let's go out for dinner. Mom and Dad will be there too. Are you

identity was revealed, Dorian and Cordelia had moved out of Percival's apartment and bought their own place. Dorian was now keen to

a succulent, Vivienne replied

place called 'Haven.' Invite your husband, too. Let's have a family gathering,"

Vivienne's gaze shifted to the

call, she texted Percival to see

not respond, so Vivienne assumed he would not join. Just as she was about to