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.

taken aback by this sudden shift, pressed for clarification. "What

and it seems you would gain

Howard knew where Winona was and was slightly relieved. The tone

do you think

granddaughter, and you two share a deep bond. So you'll benefit more after the exchange." Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Findɴovel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ

help but stifle a laugh. Although it made sense, it felt off. The negotiation seemed more like choosing goods at a

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

her mother is someone she barely knows, lacking any deep emotional connection. Her decision to save her is based

He was now forced to acknowledge the emotional leverage they held

Jesseltons. With him around

your terms?" Howard