Pearl had to confront Richard and uncover the truth.
However, Howard's expression suddenly changed. "You can't leave."
"Why not?" Pearl demanded.
"If you do, you might disrupt the wedding between Winona and the Waldorf boy,” Howard explained, his tone ominous.
"What if | insist?"
"There are two outcomes: You'll either be turned away and brought back, or you'll meet your demise out there, young lady. | can see your tis
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtrunning short,” Howard warned solemnly.
Pearl, plagued by chest pain and breathing difficulties recently, was aware of her deteriorating health. She wanted to seize whatever tshe had left
to pursue her happiness, not be confined here.
"Even if he comes to resent me, | must know the truth." Pearl made up her mind. Even if Richard kicked her out, she wouldn't regret her decision.
"The Waldorf boy went to great lengths to getto help you. Your stubbornness would waste his efforts. Can't you see how sad he would be?"
Howard's smile held a hint of cruelty. "Although this arrangement isn't very ethical, Winona loves Richard too much."
Howard sensed he had discerned Pearl's thoughts and approached her, patting her shoulder. "Miss, I'm sorry | have to do this, but | have a
granddaughter, and | wish for her happiness. Even if you have to suffer a little, I'll do my best to help you fully recover."
Pearl felt conflicted. Unable to articulate her emotions, she realized the extent of Richard's sacrifices for her, and her heart ached.
His coldness and actions now made sense. He orchestrated this schto ensure her recovery, deceiving her in the process.
Consumed by guilt for her hurtful words to him, Pearl faced the reality of the situation.
"Don't worry, you won't be detained here forever. After their wedding, you'll be healed. Then, as a healthy woman, you can find a better match,”
Howard assured her.
Better match... Who could be better than Richard?
Although she wanted to get through to Richard, she recognized his efforts to ensure she received treatment. To stubbornly walk away now would
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmdisregard all he had done.
"But you needn't feel remorseful. Marrying my granddaughter is a stroke of luck for him. As they spend ttogether, he'll realize her worth..."
Howard attempted to console her.
Pearl slowly accepted the harsh truth. She had to fully recover before anything else. With a resigned sigh, she settled into a chair.
Seeing her compliance, Howard was overjoyed. "Have you resolved to stay?"
"Yes, Mister Howard. Please helprecover," Pearl replied, her smile genuine.
Howard felt a pang of sympathy at her smile. "You're a good person, but alas, things don't always turn out the way you want."
Pearl shook her head. "Not at all. Thank you for your help. I'll be sure to repay you after | get out of here."