The Million-Dollar Heart

Percival wrapped his arm around Vivienne's waist, trailing behind Sasha and Arthur. Watching the couple ahead share tender moments, a pang of envy crept into Percival's heart.

As they walked, Percival's firm grip on Vivienne's waist halted her steps. She turned her head, her expression a mix of confusion and warmth, and softly asked, "Mr. Wolf, why have we stopped?"

Percival drew her under a canopy of white jasmine, his handsome features illuminated by the moonlight, his voice husky, "Are you staying at the Linklater estate tonight?"

Vivienne had been staying there for the past few days. Since their heartfelt reunion, she and Percival had been spending their nights apart. Glancing at his striking figure, she teased, "Or perhaps I should visit your villa?"

Desire flickered in Percival's eyes as he pressed closer, pinning her against the garden's white fence, "That won't do. You're under the watchful eyes of the Linklater estate."

He was well aware of Vivienne's boldness, especially since she was new to the estate. There were undoubtedly those amongst them with less than pure intentions.

Vivienne narrowed her eyes, understanding his hint at Dracon, her gaze sharp yet playful, "Let them watch. It's more concerning if they didn't."

Percival chuckled deeply, adoration in his laughter, "Always the strategist."

Vivienne arched an eyebrow, her eyes twinkling with mischief, "Me? I'm just a kindly soul."

With that, he pulled her into a deep, passionate kiss, their breath mingling. After the kiss, their foreheads touched, Vivienne's cheeks flushed with

tonight,"

"I'll sneak

parting ways, Vivienne headed to

hesitant look, caught up to her, worry clouding his face. After a moment's hesitation, he followed her inside, closing

guessing his concerns, invited him to sit, "Take a

his voice cautious,

her mind, she faced Arthur, "Everything has happened."

glanced at him, "Any

Arthur resigned, "What objections

her

Vivienne prepared a relaxing bath, adding a special blend of oils for a beauty soak. As she relaxed, she anticipated Percival's arrival. Soon,

was swift, his presence enveloping the room. Their greeting was a deep, longing kiss, after which Vivienne teased, "Mr.

decided instead to wrap her in another

"Might as well cover my face, so

resting on her shoulder, "Or perhaps, Vivienne,