The Million-Dollar Heart

Stepping into the elevator, Vivienne glanced at the antique locket glinting with a soft golden hue in her hand before slipping it into her pocket. The piece meant little to her personally, but for Cordelia's family, it might hold significant value.

Vivienne headed downstairs, coincidentally bumping into Dorian, who had just returned.

Spotting Vivienne, Dorian hastened his steps, waving excitedly. "Vivienne!"

With a smile, Vivienne greeted back, "Dorian, back so early?"

Setting his briefcase aside, Dorian shared, "Cordelia called me at noon, mentioned you dropped by. Figured I'd head home early since the office was slow today."

Vivienne always knew Dorian cared deeply for her, but it still warmed her heart to feel it afresh.

"How's the company doing, Dorian?"

Dorian, eager to discuss, mentioned, "Actually, we're planning to launch a new product before the year ends, alongside our classic range. It should help us better integrate into the local market. What do you think?"

Dorian was always full of ideas when it came to the business.

Though he often discussed these matters with Cordelia, Vivienne, being a significant investor, had a unique perspective.

Dorian hoped for Vivienne's approval on these strategic decisions.

Vivienne reassured him with a smile, "You're more than capable of making these decisions, Dorian."

Relieved, Dorian then remembered the purpose of Vivienne's visit. "Oh, right, Vivienne. You came to check on Flynn, didn't you?"

"I heard from Cordelia about the poor kid. He's family, after all. We should help when we can."

Vivienne pursed her lips, asking, "Dorian, how long has it been since Cordelia saw her sister?"

paused, then replied, "Years, really. She wasn't too supportive of our marriage, so we lost touch after tying the knot. Heard she moved away, haven't

of his words, Dorian looked around and whispered,

stemmed from a past incident that had left

wasn't sure yet if there was cause for alarm, especially if Cordelia hadn't noticed

Flynn's illness seemed genuine, beyond

her head to ease Dorian's fears, "Just thought it curious, given how different she seems from Cordelia and that you never mentioned her before." Dorian, relieved by her explanation, shared more about

I've told Cordelia I'll be

her commitment, "Thanks,

family in Havenwood. Look

home, Vivienne was greeted by the comforting sight of lights on and the aroma

Wolf, or Percival as he was known,

called out from the kitchen, holding a

bar, watching Percival meticulously spread frosting on a strawberry cheesecake, feeling

you didn't have to

didn't hide his care for her, "I called Cordelia. Knew you were on your way back, so I didn't

locket she had received, placed it beside her,

this?" he inquired,

of gratitude from Cordelia's sister," Vivienne replied, tasting

mood, "Something happened

the recent suspicious behavior of Cordelia's sister, Percival suggested a cautious

not jump to conclusions. I'll have someone keep a watch. If there's any

they could do was wait for more information before making any

from Cordelia, "Cordelia mentioned something about

toxins in their system, both physically and mentally compromised. Even with recovery, it's uncertain if they'll ever be like everyone

injuries can heal, but mental scars are harder

ensure the safety of the Dorian