The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Karen's demeanor shifted, the undercurrent of anger pooling in her eyes becoming unmistakable. “With your stubborn streak, even if you had that document in your hands, you wouldn't show it to Dad or our brothers. So, whether it’s Dad’s work or not, you wouldn't bother to ask.” “Yes,” Willa admitted with a knowing smile. “Diana’s well aware of how | tick. We've grown up together; she knows I'd never let the cat out of the bag. That file - it’s clear as day she prepped it just for me!” Karen nodded in agreement. “Dad and our brothers, including me, we're all in on your true identity. Compiling that document is pointless - we've kept you in the dark this long, so why would we suddenly lay out the breadcrumbs for you?” “But without hard evidence, we've still got quite the puzzle with Diana,” Willa said, biting her lip. “And then there’s Vivienne’s paternity test - it cback negative. Sasha, she is your flesh and blood, right?” “Absolutely, she’s my little girl, my only one,” Karen confirmed, pride lighting up her face despite her attempt to mask it.

Willa chuckled. “Saw her picture. She’s the spitting image of you, quite the stunner.” “She’s sharp as a tack, too. Smart enough to driveinto your arms,” Karen said, her voice tinged with a mixture of exasperation and pride.

It was true. Her daughter was formidable. Once Vivienne found out she was still alive, she was clever enough to track her down.

Willa suddenly recalled something and said, “Sasha, those notes urgingto lay low... that was your doing, right?” Karen nodded. “Yes. Vivienne’s been looking for you. | was worried that the Perez family might be dangerous for you right now, so | figured it was best you stay hidden for the tbeing.” Willa agreed with Karen's caution. [x] With Diana lurking around Rivenwood, it was essential to understand her motives before returning. It was not just her safety at stake; it might also endanger Vivienne.

Diana must know Vivienne was the Perez family’s granddaughter and would surely try to prevent her return.

Whether speculation or certainty, it was too risky to proceed without more information.

“Sasha, we need to dig into the past together, find this F-Poison, and bring him to justice!” Willa’s resolve was palpable as she looked at Karen.

Being F-Poison’s daughter did not mean she condoned his actions. Those inhumane deeds were indefensible to Willa.

“F-Poison... not sure if he’s still among the living,” Karen mused, her gaze darkening. “The new F-Poison is a woman, which is curious.” Back when Karen was undercover in GTO, the leader had been a man. Now, a woman? Ten days later.

Leopold returned to Vanguard Agency, reclaiming his post as the leader of the third squad.

Thomas landed a solid punch on him. “You damn dog, thought we'd lost you for good.” Soren joined in with a couple of jabs. “Stupid mutt, you scared us half to death.” Anna set off a sparkler with an expressionless face, deadpanning, “Welcback, Husky!” Leopold eyed the spent fireworks on the floor. “Anna, you could at least pretend to be happy to see me!” When Percival approached, everyone snapped to attention.

Leopold saluted his superior. “Deputy Director, Squad Leader Leopold, code nHusky, reporting for duty!” Percival clapped him on the shoulder. “Vivienne said to give you a welcand grant you a wish. What will it be?” Leopold grinned. “Can | get a new code name? German Shepherd sounds way cooler.” “You wish for Border Collie smarts?” Thomas scoffed.

Leopold shrugged off the tease. “Hey, it’s Vivienne’s promise. Deputy Director has to deliver.” Percival scratched his head. “Vivienne said she was kidding. Alright, back to formation. Training this afternoon.

Husky, make up for the training you missed the past month!” Leopold groaned at the marching figure. “This is just unfair!” The laughter from the Vanguard Agency operatives filled the air. Only Percival could handle Husky with such precision.

At this time, Vance's office doors opened, silence fell, and the earlier joviality vanished as if it had never been.

Leopold's lightheartedness froze. His brush with death lingered in his mind, and Vance was undoubtedly the culprit.

Vance approached Leopold. “Take stoff at home.” Leopold's response was icy. “No need for your concern, Director.” Of course, he had no reason to show hospitality to someone who almost killed him.

Vance, aware of the animosity, wanted to tap his shoulders, but Leopold dodged. Helpless, he withdrew his hand, suggesting, “The Perez family saved you. Use your leave to thank them properly.” “Okay.” Leopold left without another word while Thomas, Soren, and Anna ignored Vance. Loyalty was a scarce commodity for a leader who had betrayed his own.

In the cutthroat world of Vanguard Agency, this was even more pronounced.Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join & Stay Updated for All Books Updates...

Percival watched from his office, a returned email on his screen - his tenth appeal to investigate Vance, each one rejected without explanation.

Spowerful force was shielding Vance.

With a flick of the blinds, Percival turned away, his resolve unshaken.

If he truly wanted to root out the traitor within the Vanguard Agency, his current status would not cut it! That evening, Thomas drove to the Perez Mansion, accompanied by Percival and Leopold.

Leopold had picked out a plethora of gifts for Jasper. After all, the man had saved his life and was also Vivienne’s grandfather—it was only right to show his gratitude with generous offerings.

“This Perez family really is something else, to just snap up such a grand estate,” Leopold murmured in admiration.

Thomas glanced sideways, a hint of irony in his voice, “As if your family’s sprawling manor is any smaller.” Leopold chuckled, “Easy there, driver. Dial back that envy a notch, will you?” With that, Leopold, carrying the gifts, stepped out of the car with Percival and walked in.

Thomas muttered a curse under his breath, parked the car neatly, and followed them.

Vivienne was already by Jasper’s side. As the tapproached, she introduced them, “Grandpa, the serious- looking one is Thomas, Mr. Wolf's assistant. The less serious one is Leopold.” Jasper let out a chuckle. “Ah, | can see a bit of your Uncle Maddox in him.” Leopold, now in front of them, suddenly dropped to one knee. “Sir, I, Leopold, am eternally grateful for your life- saving grace.”