Pearl followed Blake into Ezra's backyard, paying little mind to the earlier gossip, focused instead on what lay ahead.

Contrary to her expectations, Ezra's backyard was rather modest, not the grandeur she had imagined. It felt oddly familiar, though it was her first time there. Then it clicked-Beah's place seemed to be designed the same way.

As they ventured deeper, the foliage grew denser, nearly obstructing their path. Blake pointed at a house by the wall. "Grandfather's in there. Knock three times when you enter."

Pearl nodded, sensing it was probably Ezra's rule.

"I'll wait out here. Best if I don't go in," Blake added hastily, itching to leave.

was taken

the mood to see me. I'll just

Rather than press him,

times on the ornate wooden door, Pearl heard a gruff voice from inside. "Leave me alone!

Ezra sounded irritated, Pearl sensed he was fine.

a moment before granting entry with

right. Ezra really wished

found Ezra seated on the bed,

Pearl

call me grandfather," Ezra remarked sadly, frowning in grief when he mentioned Beah, who had passed away. "They're two separate matters." Pearl held firm. She didn't feel obligated to address Ezra as family just

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255