The Million-Dollar Heart

After the photo shoot, Vivienne was left speechless.

Out of the dozen people, she and her mentor, Dawson, stuck out like sore thumbs.

And of course, they had been placed right in the middle.

Like two overly festive "clowns" in a sea of subtlety.

The rest of the group, however, lit up at the sight of the photo, eagerly asking for copies.

Dawson, ever the eccentric, and Vivienne, not much for frivolities, made this gathering a first for their group, Emerald Mountain. This photo was, in a way, their "family portrait." Dawson glanced at the photo now set as his screensaver, nodding in approval, "Leopold, well done, lad. Much appreciated!"

"I'll have to get this printed and hung by my bed. Leopold, you've outdone yourself this time."

Leopold beamed with pride.

Seeing the leftover tear streaks on Leopold's face from the ceremony, Griffin's heart softened. She passed him a tissue under the table, "Here, wipe it off before the others start teasing." Finnian, overhearing, let out a hearty laugh, "Oh, come on, we all know Leopold's strengths. Nothing we haven't seen before."

Leopold's cheeks flushed, "Master, could you not bring up my past blunders today, especially not in front of Griffin!"

Finnian laughed even harder, "Alright, alright."

A student grows, and pride must be preserved.

But as a mentor, Finnian felt certain responsibilities, especially with Leopold being the first among them to get married. He had to share some wisdom.

"Leopold's partner..."

Griffin straightened up, ready to listen, "Yes, Master?"

he ever gives you trouble, don't hold back. A good scolding or a visit from Vivienne and me

agreement,

mentors joined in

If Leopold dares to cross you, he'll have us

helper at home. If Leopold ever slacks off, just one call, and we'll sort him out without needing Master or Vivienne to step

assigning him all household duties

was witnessing this harmonious family dynamic for the first time, understanding why Leopold was the way he was. Percival, going a

was much harsher

a wedding, not a mission to

remembered he was the vulnerable one

for the tissues, not for Leopold

me; I'm straightforward. I genuinely love Leopold, and chasing him for twenty years proves it." "I'll treasure his virtues and work through his flaws together. I believe our future

her glass

stop her in time,

not something one should simply

table, except for Vivienne and

glares turned

years and was so understanding? Leopold

soon too

own drinks and conversations. Percival, ever attentive to Vivienne, sampled dishes, ensuring nothing upset her again. Once Vivienne indicated she was full, Percival

some of her favorites, "Mr. Wolf, your

from her hand, sharing a tender

eventually called away, leaving Leopold regretting not

with Griffin's support, he managed, a testament to the strong bonds