Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl (Pearl and Richard) novel Chapter 709

"I'm sorry. I can't tell you that," Raymond replied with a slight dizziness, concerned that Pearl might be probing for information. He rose from his seat, mindful of his alcohol intake, and said, "I've had quite a bit to drink tonight, and it's getting late. We should head back. Let's get you home first."

Disappointed but understanding, Pearl shook her head. "It's alright. I didn't drink much, and I can manage getting home on my own."

Observing Pearl and confirming that she was not intoxicated, Raymond nodded in relief. "Alright, please be careful. In that case, I'll take Blake back."

Pearl helped guide Blake into the car, and before departing, Raymond looked into her eyes and imparted some cryptic advice, "Follow your heart and cherish the people you love."

Perplexed by his enigmatic words, Pearl furrowed her brows and just looked at him.

With a smile, Raymond lightly tapped her forehead. "Don't dwell on it if you can't figure it out. Bye." With that, he got into his car and left, giving her no chance to seek further explanation.

Pearl stood outside the restaurant's entrance, contemplating his words. "Follow your heart and cherish the people you love."

She looked up and happened to see Winona and Richard in the distance, arm in arm, seemingly lost in each other's company like a couple who had spent many years together.

Quickly, Pearl lowered her head and turned away to avoid being noticed by them.

*

Unbeknownst to Pearl, Richard had already spotted her and had been gazing at her for a while before finally averting his gaze.