Vivienne's cheeks were flushed, yet she didn't seem inclined to pull away.
Just as their hands were about to touch, a ringtone broke the moment.
Percival was visibly annoyed. "Who is it now?"
Vivienne picked up her phone, showing him the caller ID, "It's my dad."
Percival just sighed.
As soon as the call was connected, Arthur's voice came through, trying to sound cheerful. "Honey, don't forget we have a family dinner tonight. Make sure you're here."
Vivienne acknowledged with a hum, ready to end the call, but then heard Arthur add, "Wait, don’t hang up..."
"What is it now?"
Arthur sounded like he was wrestling with his conscience. "Your granddad asked if, um, your friend could also come."
Percival raised an eyebrow. Friend? Was that his title now?
Arthur continued, sounding slightly bitter, "Just letting you know, it was your grandfather's idea, not mine. I never agreed to let him set foot in this house."
Vivienne pinched the bridge of her nose, "We're already married, dad. Your approval isn't exactly crucial now."
Arthur was caught off guard.
He couldn't let his daughter get swept away over a guy, but he caved in a second, "I was just pulling your leg. He can come if he wants. I won't stop him."
"And honey, what do you want to eat tomorrow? I'll cook..."
Vivienne hung up before he could finish.
She wasn't ready to let the dread of tomorrow's menu overshadow her day, not when the stress of it felt more daunting than undergoing surgery ten times over.
Holding hands, they headed towards the car.
Thinking about the evening's plans, Vivienne asked, "Mr. Wolf, are you free tonight?"
"Absolutely!"
Percival was quick to respond, "It's my first official visit as part of the family. I’ll need to bring a few gifts, aside from dressing up for the occasion."
Vivienne couldn't help but laugh, "You've met them before. Why do you sound like a nervous bride meeting her in-laws for the first time?"
Percival squeezed her hand gently, "I just want your dad to think well of me, to officially give us his blessing."
"He wouldn't dare object!"
Vivienne was confident.
Percival's smile carried a hint of mischief, "Then I'll use this opportunity to talk about setting a wedding date."
On the way, Vivienne called her friend Matthew to dig into the Rama family's past overseas, hoping to unearth some clues.
She also filled Percival in, so he'd be in the loop.
Percival texted his buddy Thomas, asking him to keep an eye on local matters, preparing for all eventualities.
That evening, Percival arrived at the Linklater residence on time, Vivienne leading him by the hand.
Arthur and Sasha were in the living room.
Sasha greeted them warmly, "You're here."
Percival greeted her as usual, "Master."
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