The Million-Dollar Heart

Astrid nodded affirmatively. "Yes, I've checked their IDs. They're agents from M State, probably here because they wanted to steal top-secret bio-weapon intel. As for Alfred and me, we're the heads of the lab." Vivienne pressed her lips, glancing back at Astrid, who looked slightly guilty. Then, Vivienne asked, "Why would you tell me something so critical?"

Astrid glanced at Alfred, who sighed, saying, "Tell her. She has to know sooner or later."

"Vivienne," Astrid continued, "We've been keeping an eye on you, recognizing your brilliance in medicine."

"We've been cooped up at home because the agency tasked us with a mission. They want you to join our lab and contribute to the nation's latest bio-weapons project."

Vivienne's interest piqued. "Bio-weapons?"

"Yes. Even in these peaceful times, M State is lurking, concocting various viruses to disrupt world peace. We need to be prepared, and this bio-weapons program has been ongoing for years, just without significant progress."

"Why do you think I'd make a difference?" Vivienne raised an eyebrow, her gaze laden with meaning.

Astrid pulled a document from her bag - Vivienne's perfume formula she had given to Dorian!

"I took your perfume formula to the lab for analysis. The head researcher said the data aligns closely with our bio-weapon experiments. Your formula led to a breakthrough, so I sincerely invite you to join us and lend your expertise to our national defense."

Vivienne flicked her earlobe dismissively. "Not interested."

Astrid was taken aback by Vivienne's blunt refusal that did not have even a hint of diplomacy.

"I know today's events have you worried about your safety, but rest assured, if you join us, we'll ensure you're fully protected."

Vivienne snorted. "If it weren't for us today, would you two even be alive to have this conversation?"

Astrid nearly bit her tongue, looking awkwardly at Vivienne. "Sorry, my oversight today."

off some tails recently. We didn't suspect any agents in action,

not one of the Ellingtons' bodyguards showed up until Mr. Ellington called them over. Aren't we close to the banquet hall? Wasn't the explosion loud enough for them to hear?" Astrid frowned, her features half-shadowed in the dim light as she

brow. "Vivienne, I suggest you avoid the Ellingtons for now.

your concerns for explaining this to our parents," Vivienne

of guilt across Astrid's face. "Vivienne, Alfred and I aren't really a couple. It's just a cover

"Fine." Vivienne nodded.

Vivienne and Astrid stepped

as he emerged

they needed to talk and, after a brief greeting, helped Alfred into

removed a bug

snap, Vivienne crushed

tossed it on the table, "We need to push harder, or she won't agree." Alfred nodded.

window. "Mr. Wolf, this time, I gave them one round for free like you suggested, but that's it.” Percival caressed Vivienne's cheek, his fingers savoring the silky touch like cream on sugar, "Next time, we

called, and Percival activated the

came through, "These tough nuts need a taste of

replied coolly, "Treat

of Leopold punching someone came from

try to bite your tongue off? You think I approved that? Cap, this isn't

keep the

"Will do."

eyes. "These men might not know