Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

Pearl didn't forget that her mission was to find Esther and James. "I have something important to attend to, and I don't have time for a chat," she declared, prepared to leave. "No need to search. Esther is safe," Richard responded with a knowing smile as Pearl turned away.

Turning back around, Pearl inquired, "How do you know who I'm looking for?"

Richard found it rather amusing. "Why do you think I'm here?"

He didn't seem to be joking, so Pearl hesitantly got into the car.

Once the door closed, she found herself momentarily captivated by Richard's eyes. However, after a pause, she asked, "I'd like to know how you found out. Did James text you?"

Since James was new money who had recently returned to the country, Pearl couldn't fathom any connection between them.

was uncertain about how to respond, but he didn't want to reveal his source. Instead, he nodded and admitted,

whose brother was engaged to Esther, would assist another man in trying to win her over.

looked at her. "That

a moment, Pearl couldn't help but ask, "Why did you come all the way here to tell me?" With nothing left between them, she was puzzled by his visit. sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ (ꜰind)ɴʘvel.nᴇt

Richard replied, gripping the steering wheel and gazing

apology ridiculous. "Why are you apologizing? What did

lost his

hint of fatigue was unmistakable. "I'm apologizing

been somewhat out of line and had made hurtful comments. However, it seemed

indifference. "No need to apologize. It's fine. I'm just an outsider so it wasn't my place to get involved in your family's issues. I should be

when I'm apologizing. Don't say