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

We've considered it, and it seems you would gain more

Howard knew where Winona was and was slightly relieved.

you think

is your granddaughter, and you two share a deep bond. So you'll benefit more after the exchange."

it made sense, it felt off. The negotiation

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

"To Pearl, her mother is someone she barely knows, lacking any deep emotional connection. Her decision to save her is based more on obligation than affection. You, on the other

by Richard's insight. He was now forced to acknowledge the emotional

it would be a significant threat to the Jesseltons. With him around and the two families at odds, the Jesseltons would face a strategic disadvantage with

your terms?"