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 it back; we have to move it

is what the master

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

to Finnian in desperation, "Master, is there no

is... but it's a bit

as long as it doesn't

and shoes for each member of the bride's

"Make clothes?"

eyeing Geoffrey's calm demeanor, frowned, "Does buying

scoffed, "Questioning the master's words? Seems like you're not keen on keeping the wedding

cut corners on. A family elder must personally take everyone's measurements and shoe sizes. Then find someone over eighty to cut the fabric, so the blessings reach the newlyweds." Kellan gritted his

eyes flashed with victory, ready for

was about to leave, his gaze fell on a group nearby, counting exactly eight people. He immediately brightened, "Master, I presume these are your other disciples, all looking quite exceptional. And to think

Who said that?

couldn't make

Vivienne and Percival, each disciple

could Leopold, always the crybaby,

wine's hit me

Vivienne, "..."

Wolf,

Percival smiled, "Sure."

to Kellan

their excuses and left, their actions mirror images of each

fellow disciples to take good care of Finnian, lest he "drunkedly" lose his way

Vivienne was gone, they

acting.

been with you the longest. How

Leopold over us, even with his

this up today, or this

catching her breath outside, received a call

and unusual for her calm demeanor, came through, "Vivienne, am I seeing

brow furrowed. It was rare for Anna to