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.

his eyes

"Something on your

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

gaze briefly scanning Baron, "You don't

Could you ask Percival to

dropped, making it hard

you think it's necessary, Baron," Vivienne replied with

watched Vivienne's door for a long while before he left the

slowly drive away,

car arrived at an apartment

heavy scent of blood

alright?" Baron stepped forward, eyeing

medical supplies scattered on the table before

the Vanguard Agency's surveillance and return to his apartment with Baron's help. This was their secret

during his escape, Percival's bullets had riddled his body. His

have perished

not dead yet, to your disappointment," Scott

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

"I know."

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

the resounding slam

sleep at the Brooks

for dinner. Mom and Dad will be there too. Are you

Scott's true identity was revealed, Dorian and Cordelia had moved out of Percival's apartment

a succulent, Vivienne replied unhurriedly, "Sure, which restaurant?

Dad's office building. There's a place called 'Haven.' Invite your

to the window, her lips curling into an ambiguous

she texted Percival

not respond, so Vivienne assumed he would not join. Just as she was about to dress and leave, Percival's car pulled up. Vivienne thought, "That's some