Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

"Isn't this offer attractive enough?"

Indeed, the stakes were high. Winona represented not only the family's future, as the only heiress, but also held a special place in Howard's heart, having raised her since childhood. The bond they shared was undeniable, and the thought of anything happening to her was intolerable.

"Alright, I'll let her mother go, and you'll release Winnie," Howard conceded. He had to save Winona, no matter the cost.

It was clear he was already considering alternative strategies, as holding Pearl's mother captive no longer held the advantage it once did.

Pearl was about to agree, seeing it as a reasonable exchange. However, Richard's firm grip on her hand stopped her mid-nod, signaling her not to agree so quickly.

"No, what we want isn't as simple as that," he said.

sudden shift, pressed for clarification.

it, and it seems you

and was slightly

how do you think

you'll benefit more after the exchange." Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Findɴovel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the

to Richard's serious explanation, Pearl couldn't help but stifle a laugh. Although it made sense, it

"But Pearl's mother is her family. How could I possibly stand to gain more from this

lacking any deep emotional connection. Her decision to save her is based more on obligation than affection. You, on the other hand, have shown just how important Winona is to

sharp breath, caught off guard by Richard's insight. He was now forced to

Jesseltons. With him around and the two families at odds, the Jesseltons would face

are your