Chapter 97
Heary had returned, and Quentin had thrown a welcoming feast at the Zest Club, owned by the Quarks family, and assisted in shaking off the trail’s relendess dust. Unlike the Beverland Hotel, owned by the Law family, Zest Club offered a more secluded sening Considering Henry’s unique profession, this was a deliberate choice to ward off any pesky photographers.
te was a family gathering tonight, with Quentin, Henry, Hubert, and Pearl present. They were all siblings, which made for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Laughter filled the air as they dined and celebrated together.
“Bravo, Henry,” Hubert exclaimed, raising his glass in a roast as they engaged in casual conversation, “Surviving those untamed woods during the dlm shoot must have been quite the adventure.
Henry savored a sip of his drink and chuckled softly. “It wasn’t a walk in the park,” he admitted, his eyes reflecting the rugged journey. “A year in those unforgiving woods tested my mettle. Returning to the city is like reentering a different world, you know!”
Henry wasn’t just an actor. He was a bona fide movie star. He had already collected all the major national awards and secured a few international unes, proudly representing his country on the global stage. His fanbase spanned across continents, and he was both incredibly popular and Immensely talented.
He was the kind of man who could turn even a simple meal into a cinematic experience. The fan community had sung praises of his looks ad
Haustam
For this family gathering, Henry opted for simplicity and ease in his attire. He wore a casual white hoodie with black checkered pants, exuding a unique blend of elegance and nonchalance. He possessed the tall, statuesque physique of a model, and his lips curled into a warm, spring–like smile that had no doubt captured the hearts of countless women.
However, one woman seemed unfazed by his captivating smile, quietly focusing on her meal and scarcely uttering a word.
“What’s troubling Pearl Why the somber mood?”
Hubert snapped his fingers theatrically in front of Pearl. “So. Pearl, not thrilled about Henry’s return!”
“Come on, don’t try to stir the pot
Then, Pearl’s demeanor shifted slightly as the swirled her wine glass and raised it across the table to Henry. “Welcome back, Henry. Here’s to you” She lifted her glass in a toast, then tipped in back and drained it swiftly, determinedly.
Henry gazed deeply at Pearl across the table, sensing her unease. He didn’t press her for answers, knowing that when she was ready to talk, she
would.
Unaware of Pearl’s emotional state, Quentin continued his conversation with Henry. “Did you head out to Greenwood for the shoot this time!” When Pearl heard the word “Greenwood,” an involuntary shiver ran down her spine, and a chill raced over her skin. She couldn’t suppress her physical reaction, abruptly lifting her head to gaze at Henry. “Are you ventured into the Greemrood?”
The mere mention of the “Greenwood” cast a shadow over Pearl. While others at the table might have remained oblivious, her brothers knew the significance it held for her.
Henry shot Quentin a somewhat reproachful look Quentin responded, “What could I do! Keep it from her forever? Sooner or later, your movie will be released, and sooner or later, she’ll find out
Pearl b
lip
She knew Henry had taken on a role in a military–themed movie directed by the renowned Elmmaker Felix Mercer. In pursuit of authenticity, the production had ventured deep into the wilderness, shooting in the heart of dense forests. However, Henry had kept from her that this “deep forest” referred to none other than Greenwood.
The Greenwood held painful memories for Pearl. It was where she had been abducted at the age of fourteen and where she had her first encountered with Marc.
rory goed at Pearl. Her complexion noticeably paled, and he felt sympathy. “I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want to upset you. Even though it’s bern so long, some scars remain in your heart.
Pearl managed a weak simile, not wanting to burden her brothers with her concerns. It’s not that severe. Tune can heal almost anything Righ I get a lan jittery at times more of a physical reaction than actual lear
She raised her glass, her voice determine, Henry’s fully bark, so it’s not dwell on these all matters. Let’s drink! Tonight, we’re not li
3
And with that declaration, they embraced the spirit of celebration, and the drinks began to flow freely.
Hubert spirited Pearl away into a private karaoke room, where they sang with unbridled enthusiasm, reaching impressive crescendos during their dition of “Take Me Home, Country Roads” Although their pitch was slightly off on four and a half of every five notes. Quentin couldn’t endure stening longer while Henry watched with a fond smile. The siblings were united in a time of unadulterated joy and respite.
Au they got into the groove, the door to the room suddenly swung open. revealing a tall figure. His sharp gaze immediately locked onto Pearl and he headed straight for her
Both Quentin and Henry’s pupils constricted in response.
Henry calmly inquired. “Is that Mare
Though they had never met in person, he had seen photos of him and recognized him instantly.
Quentin grunted in agreement, his gaze turning cold. The fork in his hand had somehow been bent out of shape, but at this moment, what he wanted to bend was Marc’s hand. This content © Nôv/elDr(a)m/a.Org.
Mare had spent the entire afternoon searching for Pearl. When he finally located her, she was in a room with three men, enjoying drinks and singing. He felt a chill run down his spine, and his demeanor quickly turned frosty upon entering.
He moved forward gripping Pearl’s arm and pulling her into his arms. “Come with me!”
“What are you doing? Let go of me
Pearl, slightly drunk and amid a joyful song, suddenly found herself being yanked away. Feeling uneasy, she began to resist. Her struggle caught the attention of Quentin, Henry, and Hubert, who all stood up and positioned themselves protectively in front of her.
With Henry and Hubert on either side, shielding Pearl Quentin stepped forward and forcefully shoved Marc. “Hey, you barge in here, laying hands on people without a word? Do you think we’re easy targets? Had your fill of trouble, have you! Need another trip to the hospital for some extra
resti
Marc’s expression turned frigid. His jaw clenched tightly. His calm gaze surveyed Quentin, then shifted to Hubert and Henry, his lips drawn into a thin line.
Quentin and Hubert had already crossed paths with him, and now, with the addition of Henry, the movie star, it seemed there was yet another man in the mix
What was Pearl’s connection to all of them?
Understanding Pearl’s social circle had become a perplexing puzzle. How had she built such a diverse network, especially one filled with men! Even if they were relatives, it seemed improbable that she had so many male cousins.
Maintaining a demeanor as cold as ice, Marc, his dark, mysterious eyes concealing his emotions, finally spoke up. Tm taking her with me?
“You’re taking her with you?” Quentin echoed Marc’s words as though he had heard a preposterous claim. “Who do you think you are, and what gives you the authority to take Pearl away!
He turned his head toward Henry and Hubert, remarking, “Looks like it’s going to get messy today. Someone’s come here looking for a fight, and we can’t just let them off easy. You two, take Pearl away from here and keep a safe distance. We don’t want her caught up in this
Marc paid little attention to Quentin’s threats, focusing on Pearl, who was caught between the two men. His eyes were as impenetrable as the darkest of nights.
Will you come with me?
Prari, larr stance unsteady, casually leaned against Henry’s shoulder, her tone laced with sarcasm. “Who do you think you are to me? Why would I go anywhere with you?”