The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Alyssa had managed to keep her cool since Brianna walked in, but Brianna's final words shattered her composure. Hate flared in her eyes, and she clenched her fists so tightly that her nails broke the skin, yet she felt nothing. "It's all because of Sasha and Vivienne. They've madea laughingstock, tarnished my image in Arthur's eyes. He was so cold toin front of everyone." Brianna patted Alyssa on the shoulder, her tone probing, "So, Alyssa, what's your next move?" Alyssa sighed heavily, her voice softening, "Granddad warnedto behave, to avoid causing another scandal that would disgrace the Wright family... or else..." "Look, Alyssa, Granddad just doesn't want another scandal. Just make sure your plans are foolproof, and he won't have a reason to cafter you," Brianna advised.

Alyssa pondered for a moment, her gaze dark and indecisive, "Why don't you just spell out why you're here?" Brianna couldn't hide her true intentions any longer, her face a mix of genuine and feigned sorrow, "Alyssa, I ran into Vivienne, and, believe it or not, I found myself in a similar mess. Those two, mother and daughter, they really know how to pick their targets." Alyssa's brows knitted together, her posture straightening as she dragged her feet, causing her ankle bracelet to chime, "Vivienne dares to cross you because she's Arthur's daughter." Brianna, anxious, urged, "Then why not win Arthur back? Once he marries Sasha, you'll have lost him for good!" Alyssa bit her lip, fully aware of Brianna's intentions, "Don't you want to get your revenge?" It was clear they shared the sgoal, yet Brianna seemed only interested in pushing Alyssa to act, a fact not lost on her.

Brianna smiled coyly, "Let's agree then, we'll plot once you're out." Alyssa nodded solemnly, signaling Brianna to be at ease.

The Linklater Estate.

Vivienne and Percival had been out late, finalizing details for their new home.

Percival insisted on being involved in setting up their home, believing it was important for them to do it together, and also as an excuse to spend more twith Vivienne.

He said goodbye at the Linklater Estate's doorstep and left.

Upon entering, Vivienne was greeted by Yorick, who seemed to have been waiting for her, "Vivienne, your great-aunt can be quite the character; don't take her words to heart. As the only granddaughter of the Linklater family, I've got your back." Yorick was concerned that Hailey might have upset Vivienne, especially since she had been out all day, possibly avoiding coming home. He was so worried he was about to send people out to look for her.

Hearing Yorick's reassurance, Vivienne was momentarily taken aback, having almost forgotten the incident, "I wasn't bothered, Grandpa. Don't worry about me." To Vivienne, aside from Yorick, the other family members didn't matter much. She craved the family connection she had missed in her youth, respecting Yorick genuinely.

But as for Arthur and the rest of the Linklater family, she wasn't willing to compromise herself for them. She'd maintain a courteous relationship unless provoked.

Yorick's feelings were mixed. While he was saddened by his perceived lack of importance to Vivienne, he didn't know her true feelings. He reassured her, "Hailey is just passing through. She'll leave in due time." Vivienne, understanding Yorick's stance, gently suggested, "Grandpa, you should rest. Staying up late isn't good for your health." Her concern warmed Yorick's heart, making him feel cherished in the cold winter of his life, "Having a granddaughter really is different," Yorick mused, reflecting on his loneliness and the stark difference between his sons and Vivienne's caring nature.

"I always hoped that Arthur, Dracon, ne and Hector would settle down, maybe start families of their own, blesswith granddaughters. But who would have thought, your dad, without so much as a word, brought into this world such a wonderful granddaughter for me. You have no idea how overjoyed I was to find out about you, Vivienne. Finally, someone to dote on," Yorick paused, lifting his gaze to meet Vivienne's. "Vivienne, I'm not trying to be an old sentimental fool here. I just want you to understand that the waters in the Linklater family run deep. Things aren't always as simple as they appear. There might be times when my decisions seem a bit biased, and I hope you can understand that." Vivienne gazed back at Yorick, a smile suddenly playing on her lips. "Grandpa, you laid out such a lengthy preamble just to get to that point, didn't you?" Yorick's face turned a shade of red, embarrassment silencing him.

e Vivienne chuckled, "The affairs of the Linklater family might not have concernedinitially, but now that I've embraced the Linklater name, it's only natural forto take an interest. Besides, I'm currently on a mission for the country, and are just slines that crossed!" ere be Her smile vanished, replaced by a stern expression. "I understand your position as the head of the Linklater family, striving to secure its legacy for generations. I understand your role as a father, wanting to keep your family safe. And I believe that you truly love me, your wne granddaughter. But one can't be too greedy, Grandpa. We can't have everything."