Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

Pearl approached the table and noticed an unlocked diary sitting on it. She picked it up and began to read.

The elegant handwriting belonged to her mother, detailing her battle with illness. As Pearl read on, she could sense the weakening of her mother's words, reflecting her declining health.

But what struck Pearl the most were the recurring expressions of longing for her, written at the end of nearly every page.

[Pearl, my daughter. I miss and love you.]

eyes as she traced the words on the page. But it was the letter on the final page that truly broke

leave you without telling you, but I did it for your sake.

even if we can't see each other again. Time is something I have very little of, and

I'm aware of her job at Dark Bar, and I silently approved because I know the place is under your care. Please, look out for her and treat her well. After I'm gone, I trust you to care for her as if she were your own sister. Finally, I hope you always stay true to yourself, never letting anyone dictate your path or bowing down for the sake of others. Pearl, my dear daughter, I miss you and love you

she soaked the paper with her grief. She felt the weight of her mother's sacrifice and

had cherished memories of her kindness during his childhood. Though saddened, he knew he couldn't console Pearl in the way he wished let alone the right to hug and comfort

given Pearl's breakdown. Quietly, he approached and gently patted her shoulders. "Don't be too sad. Aunt Beah faced her own struggles.

always too worried about me." Pearl, amidst her tears, chuckled softly. "Tell me, am I too weak?" she questioned suddenly. "If I had the courage to stand up to

pondered her words, finding them reasonable.