Chapter 946


    "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 ce 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.


    Howard, taken aback by this sudden shift, pressed for rification. "What do you mean?"


    "Nothing much. We''ve considered it, and it seems you would gain more than we would."


    By now, Howard knew where Winona was and was slightly relieved. The tone of the conversation


    was a lot calmer.


    "And how do you think I''d gain more?"


    "Winona is your granddaughter, and you two share a deep bond. So you''ll benefit more after the


    exchange."


    Listening to Richard''s serious exnation, Pearl couldn''t help but stifle augh. Although it made


    sense, it felt off. The negotiation seemed more like choosing goods at a flea market.


    Howard, however, failed to see the logic. "But Pearl''s mother is her family. How could I possibly


    stand to gain more from this exchange?"


    Richard countered, "To Pearl, her mother is someone she barely knows,cking any deep emotional


    connection. Her decision to save her is based more on obligation than affection. You, on the other


    hand, have shown just how important Winona is to you."


    Howard took a sharp breath, caught off guard by Richard''s insight. He was now forced to


    acknowledge the emotional leverage they held over him.


    If Richard couldn''t be his grandson-inw, it would be a significant threat to the Jesseltons.


    With him around and the two families at odds, the Jesseltons would face a strategic disadvantage


    with Richard opposing them.


    "So, what are your terms?" Howard asked.


    "I don''t ask for much. Simply ensure Pearl''s mother''s safe return and agree to sever all future


    coborations with Hugo. Of course, the second condition is that you must sign a contract to make


    sure you won''t go back on your words."


    Pearl was taken aback by Richard''s foresight, not having anticipated his real objective was to


    safeguard against any collusion with Hugo. This was a move she didn''t seeing.


    She nced at Richard, impressed by his confidence andposure. Somehow, she found him


    oddly attractive. This must be the reason why she liked him. He always had a n, strategic


    thinking, and unwavering calmness, embodying the charm that made him so irresistible to her.


    "What''s the reason for this condition?" Howard challenged, his frustration mounting.


    Richard replied casually, "It''s just a personal preference. You''re free to refuse, but doing so means


    you won''t get what you want.''"


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "How dare you!"