Chapter 146


    Richard probably thought that Pearl could resolve the disaster given her wits, but he was wrong. The


    feelings, truth, and evidence all seemed to point to her guilt.


    Surprisingly, the spacious residence was not equipped with a surveince system.


    “I don’t have evidence,” Pearl admitted.


    Richard looked grave in response.


    As the ambnce arrived and paramedics ced Susan on a stretcher, Richard briefly nced at


    Pearl from the corner of his eye before lowering his gaze and departing.


    Pearl didn’t offer much of an exnation, as she was left with feelings of despair and disappointment.


    Smiling bitterly, she seemed to understand something. Perhaps Hugo had been right. The typically


    aloof and ruthless Richard would not easily show kindness to someone.


    Furthermore, it was clear that Richard didn’t fully trust her. If that was the case, Pearl felt that there was


    no reason for her to stay any longer.


    Heartbroken, Pearl was overwhelmed with pain. Staring at the chaotic house, she felt that she was


    always an


    outsider.


    Since it seemed that everyone disliked her, she decided it was best to leave.


    In the end, she left quietly.


    Mncholic feelings hit Richard when he learned of Pearl’s departure while he was in the hospital.


    Meanwhile, Abby mistook his disappointment for concern that Susan might never wake up. So she


    quickly reassured him, saying, “Don’t worry too much, Rick. I’m sure your mother will be fine. You


    shouldn’t stay here all the time, especially since you’ve been here the entire night.”


    She felt very sorry for Richard when she saw his stubble and dark circles under his eyes.


    “I’m alright. Sean has to manage thepany, and Hugo is busy with surgery. Hanzel and Mobius both


    have their careers and studies to focus on. If I don’t stay here, no one will take care of Mom,” Richard


    replied


    sensibly.


    He observed Abby yawning repeatedly and suggested, “You’ve been here with me the whole night as


    well. You should get some rest.”


    His words made Abby smile. “I’m d to keep watch here, Rick. Madam has always been so kind to


    me, and I


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    can’t leave her alone in her time of need.”


    “Thank you,” Richard said sincerely.


    Abby sensed his guilt and waved it off. “No need to mention it, Rick. We’ve been childhood friends,


    even if


    you


    don’t have romantic feelings for me. You don’t have to say that.” She was indeed a pretentious person.


    As expected, Richard began to wonder if he had been too harsh towards her in the past. Most women


    would have left in tears after such a cold rejection from him. Yet, Abby remained undeterred and even


    willingly took


    care of Susan.


    2/2


    “Rick, what do you n to do about Pearl?” Abby asked tentatively, but her question only irritated him.


    “I told


    you,


    don’t meddle in her business.” Richard was annoyed again. Naturally, the forbidden topic left him in a


    foul mood.


    Realizing that pressing further would tarnish the good image she had just built, Abby decided to drop


    the subject. “Alright, don’t be upset. I’m hungry. How about grabbing a bite to eat with me?”