The Million-Dollar Heart (Percival and Vivienne) novel Chapter 805

Victoria's mood visibly darkened at the mention of Gavin. She made a face as if she had just swallowed something bitter. "Gavin's lost his nerve. Afraid Richard Ellington would come knocking for a favor, he wouldn't dare show his face. Harrison, on the other hand, had the guts but wasn't looking to call in a favor. Instead, he wanted me to negotiate with Vivienne, see if we could push the court date back."

Arthur nodded, noting Victoria's reluctance to delve deeper. He didn't press further and his gaze softened. "Well, in that case, do as he suggested. It buys us some time. If Vivienne wins the case and Harrison ends up behind bars, we'll have a harder time sorting out our own affairs."

Victoria nodded solemnly. "Understood, Arthur."

As she turned to leave, a weight seemed to lift from her shoulders. That was close. Thankfully, Arthur didn't probe further. The last thing she wanted was to explain her mother's situation now that she had been found. Vivienne's skill in medicine had caught her off guard.

She had heard rumors about Yorick being rushed to the hospital a while back due to an incident involving Percival, but no decisive evidence led to any charges, and he was released. And it was Specter Healer who had treated Yorick. Only recently had she discovered Vivienne was Specter Healer.

So, Arthur must be aware of Vivienne's involvement in Yorick's treatment. Would he suspect her collaboration with Vivienne, or even seeking Vivienne's help for her mother's treatment?

Victoria stepped out of the conference room, feeling jittery. Seaton, waiting by the door, quickly followed her lead without looking back. If only they had, they might have noticed the swirling doubts and concerns in Arthur's dark gaze.

After a while, he picked up his phone and sent a message: "Look into Vivienne." He couldn't put his finger on it, but he had a hunch that Vivienne was the key to unraveling the mystery surrounding Winnie.

Later, a figure slipped into the room. "Arthur, our guys tailing the Second Master reported he's been frequenting a hotel lately. Stays in there for hours. Should we...?"

Arthur listened without a change in expression. "Hold off for now. Let's wait for Percival's plan to take shape before we make a move."

"Understood."

The late summer sun was still blistering, driving most to seek refuge in air-conditioned interiors. Yet, Victoria found herself standing under it after leaving Arthur's office, feeling particularly unlucky. Just a visit to the tea house, and she had run into Harrison.

Harrison, examining the private room she had exited, regarded her with a cool scrutiny. "Victoria, I had no idea you've taken a liking to tea."

Victoria eyed him disdainfully, her irritation unchanged from before. "Since when do I need to report my likes and dislikes to you? Who do you think you are?"

Harrison's response was nonchalant, a smile playing on his lips. "Of course, you don't need to tell me everything. But as husband and wife, I thought I should at least know your preferences. I've got some premium Early Spring Green Tea someone gifted me. How about I share it with you?"