Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

To Estrella, resigning wasn't ideal. She was an influencer who shot into fame and was loved by many, with potential opportunities in the entertainment industry looming on the horizon. Why would she suddenly quit now?

But after pondering it, Pearl had a hunch. "Do you think Silas said something to her?"

Richard's expression darkened, and he seemed uninterested. "Why do you care so much about that? Let them be."

As long as Silas doesn't come after Pearl, he would be willing to let him off.

"Fine, I was just curious." It was obvious Richard was jealous again. She'd investigate on her own.

Observing his cold expression, Pearl attempted to lighten the mood. "Okay, I'll stop prying. I was just curious. Can't I gossip a bit?"

"Why don't you find out how to keep a man's heart?" Richard retorted, his mood improving.

"Do I need to worry about keeping yours, Mister Richard?" Pearl teased, placing her hand behind his neck and drawing close. "You're the manliest man I know. I trust my judgment when it comes to men."

Richard realized Pearl had a unique way of addressing him. Whenever she addressed him as "mister," her voice became softer, lingering at the last syllable, carrying an allure that inevitably captivated him.

She also had a knack for words, subtly praising Richard while boosting her own confidence. It was a skill Richard found not just flattering, but useful.

Eyeing her delicate neck, Richard's gaze smoldered. "Shouldn't I be rewarded then?"

Caught off guard, Pearl's smile faltered. "I think..." But before she could finish, she was swept away in the moment.

Outside, the wind stirred, rattling the windows. Their moans echoed and mingled with the winds of spring, tugging at heartstrings.

*

Mobius's funeral was a modest affair.

Dustan and Susan wept as their son was laid to rest. Susan's distress led to her fainting, causing a commotion.

After most of the mourners left, Pearl and Richard lingered to finalize arrangements.

"Pearl."

Esther emerged from the crowd, dressed in mourning attire. Her usual vibrancy was overshadowed by melancholy.

"You look exhausted." As her best friend, Pearl felt sorry for her. She grabbed her cold hands and noticed she lost quite a lot of weight.

"I'm managing," Esther replied, attempting a smile that faltered. "Just haven't been getting much rest."

"Is James still ignoring you?"

At the mention of his name, Esther's face paled. "Pearl, James and I… are no longer together."This is property © NôvelDrama.Org.