Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

This was nothing short of a blatant threat. "If you're not willing to accept these terms, then I'm afraid your granddaughter will remain with us," Richard stated. Howard couldn't help but laugh, struck by the audacity of the young man before him. "You've outdone yourself, young man. Your cunning surpasses even mine." "Thank you, but I'd say I'm just being thorough."

Howard, assessing the situation, realized the strategic disadvantage of siding with Hugo over Richard. Hugo, though intelligent, lacked Richard's foresight and cunning.

Besides, Richard stated that there can be no collaboration, not limiting any communication. There were still plenty of opportunities to exploit this loophole.

After a moment of deliberation, Howard agreed. "Very well, we have a deal."

Richard, prepared as ever, pulled a contract from his bag with a flourish. "Let's formalize our agreement. Please review and sign this document."

his agreement to secure his granddaughter's release, finding a loophole later. Richard's readiness, however with

pen..." Howard said, stalling

one right here." Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FindNʘᴠᴇl.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the

a trap snapping shut for Howard, who, with a resigned

hold onto this contract. I trust you'll honor our agreement," Richard said, checking the contract and making sure everything was fine before putting

suggested, "It would be best if you could pick up Winona from

impatiently, "When should I come to pick her

see your granddaughter. If it's urgent, you're welcome to come by today. Otherwise, we can

these things, which left Howard at