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."

meticulously chosen. We can't push

this is what the master has

wants to send their daughter away right before 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 during

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

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

as it doesn't delay

set of clothes and shoes for each member

"Make clothes?"

demeanor, frowned, "Does buying them

like you're not keen on

elder must personally take everyone's measurements and shoe sizes. Then find someone

victory, ready

eight people. He immediately brightened, "Master, I presume these are your other disciples, all looking quite exceptional. And to think you consider our Leopold your favorite, I'm truly humbled." The group

Who said that?

couldn't make such a wild

Vivienne and Percival, each disciple considered themselves the

Leopold, always the crybaby, be

"Ah, this wine's hit me hard...

Vivienne, "..."

any longer. "Mr. Wolf, I'm full. Shall

Percival smiled, "Sure."

goodbye to Kellan

realizing the awkwardness, quickly made their excuses and left, their actions

fellow disciples to take good care of Finnian,

but once Vivienne

acting. Who's your

besides Vivienne, we've been with you the longest. How did

saying you prefer Leopold over us, even

this up

breath outside, received

came through, "Vivienne, am

was rare for