Chapter 1025


    To Estre, 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 Ss 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 Ss doesn''te 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, cing her hand behind


    his neck and drawing close. "You''re the manliest man I know. I trust my judgment when ites to


    men."


    Richard realized Pearl had a unique way of addressing him. Whenever she addressed him as


    "mister," her voice became softer, lingering at thest syble, 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 ttering, 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.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    *


    Mobius''s funeral was a modest affair.


    Dustan and Susan wept as their son wasid 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 mncholy.


    "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."