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."

"We've managed to shake off some tails recently. We didn't suspect any agents in

over. Aren't we close to the banquet hall? Wasn't the explosion loud

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

explaining this to our parents," Vivienne said, turning away from the 'righteous'

guilt across Astrid's face. "Vivienne, Alfred and I aren't really a couple. It's just a cover for our mission, so we're not married. But could you keep this a secret? I

"Fine." Vivienne nodded.

Vivienne and Astrid stepped out of

said as he emerged from the

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

removed a bug

snap, Vivienne crushed

back in the house, Astrid, in agony, removed her hidden earpiece and tossed it on

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,

and

tough nuts need a taste of their

replied coolly, "Treat the prisoners with

someone came from the other side of the

try to bite your tongue off? You

keep the interrogation

"Will do."

danced in Percival's eyes. "These men might not know the truth. We still need to find