The Million-Dollar Heart

Arthur and Karen, feeling out of place at the bustling garden party filled with high society's finest, decided to slip away for some air in the quieter parts of his vast family estate.

"You just got back, and you can't even give me a hug before ditching me?" Arthur feigned hurt, his deep voice laced with mock indignation.

Karen couldn't help but chuckle, comforting her man with a heart full of affection, "How can I resist when I love you so much? I'll have to endure."

As she gently ruffled Arthur's hair, it felt like petting a big, friendly dog.

Arthur, cheered by her words, suggested with a softer tone, "If it's too hot out here, how about we cool off with a swim? I've just had a pool added behind the house. What do you think?"

Karen blinked, sensing a hint of mischief in his suggestion, her lips parting slightly to respond...

"Arthur!" Alyssa called out elegantly as she approached, with Kate following in a flowing violet dress. Karen hadn't even opened her mouth when Alyssa intercepted, a flush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks as she faced Arthur, "I just stepped out of the ballroom for some fresh air and, turning the corner, was so thrilled to see you here. With our history, I just forgot to greet you properly... How awkward of me."

Clutching the hem of her white dress, Alyssa's discomfort was palpable.

The reality was, Alyssa and Kate had almost scoured the entire Linklater property before finding Arthur, arriving with a sheen of perspiration from their search.

picking up on Alyssa's embarrassment, also turned away, "Running

a gentle smile, "I thought some young lady had wandered in by mistake. But seeing as we're about the same age, there's no need for awkwardness. Since you know my husband, please, take a seat. There are two chairs right over

gesture was effortless, embodying the

make anyone squirm." Alyssa's face stiffened, her nails digging into her palms. She hadn't expected Arthur

long-standing relationship, thought, "Where's all this coming from? My

it wasn't by much. From the moment she walked in, Kate had scrutinized Karen, finding her even more beautiful and well- preserved despite her travels and having a daughter. It

the two women settled into the armchairs

trying to regain her composure, smiled sweetly at Arthur, "It's been a while, Arthur. You look even more dashing now. Your victories on the battlefield are the talk of the town." Arthur responded noncommittally, hardly impressed by a

Alyssa's undying affection for Arthur, hinting at their childhood connection. Arthur, however, showed little interest, his thoughts wandering off to sleep. Karen, on the other hand,

disdain, directly addressed Karen, "You might have some beauty, but Alyssa here is a Wright from Rivenwood-a significant step above

feigned modesty, added with a hint of provocation, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Karen. I didn't mean to overlook you.

with a radiant smile, "Oh, is that so? And here I thought we were all just people,

Alyssa's pride clashing with Karen's simplicity, a stark reminder of the

Alyssa declared with unbridled