The Million-Dollar Heart

Thomas shot Leopold a look that screamed "Are you out of your mind?" before saying, "What's that got to do with me?"

Leopold stood his ground, indignant. "Of course, it's got to do with you. I've been holding off telling you about quitting because I didn't want you to feel all alone at Vanguard. I had no idea you were also fed up. Hurry up already; let's get our resignation letters done and get out of here. I can't stand another day in this place!"

As the afternoon sun spilled into the office, Anna walked in, clutching a stack of files just in time to overhear the conversation.

She raised an eyebrow, her eyes dancing with mischief as she approached Leopold. "Oh, Husky had enough of hard work? Vance was singing your praises just yesterday, saying you're creative. Don't give up so easily."

"Get lost," Leopold grumbled, annoyed at the nickname. "If you drop that moniker, maybe we can still be friends."

Anna leaned in to catch a glimpse of his screen, and the bold, capitalized words 'RESIGNATION LETTER' hit her eyes. She looked at Leopold in surprise. "For real, you're quitting?"

"Does it look like I'm joking?" Leopold declared, more serious than he'd ever been, having spent the entire afternoon crafting the perfect resignation letter.

Thomas copied it verbatim, and they sent it to Vance's inbox.

Meanwhile, Anna was in Soren's office.

Leopold are about to jump ship to join Percival and his

there to think? If they want to go to the captain, let them. With my condition, I'm not fit for service anyway. It's nice to retire peacefully

his restless hands, she suddenly

boss! Watch your tone!" Soren's hand slipped, and his pen drew a long arc

sharp eyes were

by Soren's rage, but not Anna. She propped her chin with one hand, unfazed. "You're a coward, and getting mad won't change that. You're afraid of being outclassed, afraid Percival won't

irked by Anna. "I've dealt with far more dangerous people than

grabbing his wrist to lead him out. "Then prove it. Let's go see

his wrist, breaking free from Anna's grip. "Wait. Just wait. When

filtered through the window, tickling their

Soren's flustered retreat, her eyes

At the Perez household.

noon, the Perez family would usually be

the busy bee, wouldn't miss out on this

catching up with Willa, who was probably out caring for Karen. No one in their right mind would be out under the scorching

But today was different.

Luke supporting their father, the Perez brothers stood on either side

them had a sharp, unwavering gaze fixed

was clad in a black suit despite the summer heat, holding a rosary in his hand opposite Jasper. "Jasper, you and my father go way back, and I don't want any trouble. Hand over Vivienne quickly, or don't blame

stark contrast to the mild contempt he had shown the day before when facing Vivienne.

armed to the teeth, clearly prepared

what are you? Daring to make a scene here? If I don't teach you a lesson today, you won't learn what manners are!" Yuri toyed with his sword, his smile scornful. "Bro, do we need you to deal with this lackey? I haven't had a good workout in days. Today's a perfect opportunity