Chapter 321
Hugo, despite his humiliation, tried to maintain his composure. Even as the people around them mocked him, he harbored a growing resentment toward Richard.
Pearl had no intention of pushing Hugo further into a corner, so she decided to diffuse the situation with a friendly tone. She smiled and said to Reese, “Let’s just forget about this, considering our past friendship. It’s best not to burn any bridges.”
Reese agreed with a nod. “You’re quite considerate. Very well, let Mister Hugo leave.” Then, Reese recalled something important and added, “And Mister Hugo, please refrain from setting foot in any of the black markets under my ownership.”
Hugo clenched his fists, his frustration mounting. He couldn’t help but direct his anger towards Richard and Pearl. Revenge was on his mind. ‘Richard, Pearl… just wait!’
With his head hung low, Hugo left the scene, and as onlookers realized the drama was over, they dispersed as well.
Reese turned his attention back to Pearl with a smile. “I’m glad I arrived in time, or you might have been in trouble.”
Pearl smiled back. “Thank you for saving me, Mister Reese.”
However, Reese seemed to take issue with her formal address. “I said you’re my goddaughter, so I’m protecting you. From now on, consider yourself my goddaughter.”
Pearl bit her l*p and was a little troubled. “I don’t think that’s a good idea…”
“Why not? If you can’t be my daughter-in-law, you can be my goddaughter. I really like you, you’re strong and remarkable. My useless son could learn a lot from you!” Reese commented with a chuckle.
Pearl burst out laughing at his candid words. Even the owner of a black market could be just like a regular father. The way he complained was just like her dad.
Thinking of her father, Pearl’s eyes flickered. She was even more determined to find her mother.
Richard, who understood her thoughts, gently touched her head. “Well, if Mister Reese is offering, you should accept.”
“Alright, godfather,” Pearl agreed and tried addressing him that way.
Reese beamed with delight. “Wonderful! If you ever need help, just come to me. I’ll provide everything for free. If there’s anything you want from here, let me know, and I’ll reserve it for you.”
Pearl was touched by such a cool statement. “Thank you.” She was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected support she had gained.
“I’ll introduce you to your godbrother if the opportunity arises. I must be on my way now,” Reese said before departing.
Pearl and Richard left the black market together, but as soon as they stepped outside, Pearl noticed something was amiss with Richard. His steps were unsteady, and his face had an unusual flush.
“What’s wrong, Richard?” Pearl asked in concern as she held onto his arm, simultaneously placing her other hand on his forehead. She could feel the heat radiating from him. “Richard, you have a fever!”
Right after saying that, Richard lost his balance and fainted.
“Richard!” Panicking, Pearl caught him and didn’t know what to do.
“Pearl, what are you doing here?” A familiar voice interrupted her distress.
