Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

Dragging the marriage out any longer wouldn't be good, as Richard didn't want any other men having eyes for Pearl.

"In that case, let's get married tomorrow," he declared, his tone firm.

When Pearl heard this, she felt like the world was spinning. Marriage was a serious commitment, and the sudden proposal caught her off guard.

"I didn't plan to get married so soon..." she trailed off, her mind racing with thoughts.

But Richard's reaction surprised her. His expression darkened, and he pulled her close, pressing her against the wall with a chilling intensity. "Say that again," he demanded, his voice low and commanding.

Pearl felt a surge of apprehension, but she couldn't back down now. "I'm just not ready-mmph!" Her protest was cut short by his forceful kiss.

his touch, her thoughts scattered by the intensity of his embrace and his

only to be met with even more emotional retaliation. Her legs nearly gave out, but

released her, she was left breathless and disoriented, her heart pounding in

you want to marry me now?" Richard asked, his voice husky with

arms, nodded. But then she shook her head, tears glistening in

gaze lingering on her swollen lips with a hunger that sent shivers down her spine. "Will you marry

dizzy from the kiss and couldn't

and smiled before letting her go. "I

of relief washed over her. She straightened up and hurried to

heard the click of her bedroom door,

her room, Pearl couldn't help but reflect on the events of the evening. Richard's domineering presence had left her feeling both exhilarated and unnerved, but she couldn't deny