The Million-Dollar Heart

Finnian was skeptical, "It's an interesting theory, but not very practical."

"No magic or trick has ever allowed anyone to live that long, and even if it did, maintaining youthfulness without any signs of aging on the face or body? Highly unlikely."

Vivienne was about to probe further when Kellan Reed and Geoffrey, each with a drink in hand, appeared behind her. "Finnian, a toast to you on this fine day. The kids' wedding wouldn't be happening without your help!" Finnian's eyes lost their sharpness as he turned around with a smile, "Oh, you're making too much of it. They're practically family."

That phrase alone brought the two families closer together.

Kellan shot Geoffrey a smug look.

Just moments ago, weren't they at each other's throats?

Who else would think of gifting a bomb as a dowry? On the wedding day, would the Martinez family bring in a fighter jet to display in their backyard?

It seemed to highlight the Martinez family's contributions to national defense.

Over the years, the Reed family had donated generously to the nation, especially in scientific research. Kellan's son had been donating a third of his income annually, following a long-standing family tradition. Their contributions were just directed differently, but both families were equally patriotic.

So, the Martinez family's weapon research was considered a contribution, but his money wasn't?

Without funding, what would they research with?

Geoffrey, not one to back down, stepped forward with his drink, "Master, the wedding is set for next spring, but there seems to be an extra month according to the lunar calendar. What do you make of it?" The three old foxes gathered, each with their own agenda.

Finnian knew he was walking into a trap.

It was Leopold's wedding date he had chosen; he was well aware of any potentially inauspicious timings.

But then he remembered the precious box he had received from the Martinez family.

Could he pretend to be drunk now?

Vivienne, listening on the side, wanted to laugh.

Caught in a bind because he had accepted a gift, Finnian had to think fast. "Well... getting married during an extra lunar month does have its superstitions. It's best to avoid it if possible, otherwise, the date must be pushed back." Geoffrey shrugged, "Then it looks like we'll have to delay it."

was meticulously chosen. We can't push it back; we have to move it earlier

what the

New Year's? Sure, your family will be happy, but what about me? My granddaughter will be gone, and I'll be left all alone

for words, turning to Finnian in desperation, "Master, is there no

beard, "There is... but it's a

long as it

Make a set of clothes and shoes for

"Make clothes?"

eyeing Geoffrey's calm demeanor, frowned, "Does buying them not

Seems like you're not keen on

everyone's measurements and shoe sizes. Then

with victory, ready

nearby, counting exactly eight people. He immediately brightened, "Master, I presume these are your other disciples, all

Who said that?

poor eyesight, one couldn't make such a wild

Vivienne and Percival, each disciple

the crybaby, be

"Ah, this wine's

Vivienne, "..."

any longer. "Mr. Wolf,

Percival smiled, "Sure."

to Kellan and Geoffrey, they

quickly made their excuses and left, their actions mirror images of

reminded her fellow disciples to take good care

once Vivienne was gone,

no more acting. Who's

we've been with you the longest. How

saying you prefer Leopold over us, even with his constant

clear this up today, or this isn't

breath outside, received a call

frantic and unusual for her calm demeanor, came through, "Vivienne, am I seeing things? This

was rare