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.

aback by this sudden shift,

considered it, and it seems

knew where Winona was and was slightly relieved. The tone of the conversation was a

you think I'd gain

more after the exchange." Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Findɴovel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of

to Richard's serious explanation, Pearl couldn't help but stifle a laugh. Although it made sense, it felt off. The negotiation seemed more

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

to save her is based more on obligation than

sharp breath, caught off guard by Richard's insight. He was now forced to acknowledge the emotional leverage they held

grandson-in-law, it would be a significant threat to the Jesseltons. With him around and the two families at odds, the Jesseltons would face a strategic

are your terms?" Howard