Chapter 471

Richard held Pearl close as they made their way back to shore, and the crew finally realized the seriousness of the situation and called for an ambulance. Esther was overwhelmed with guilt and anxiety. Her voice quivered as she said, "I'm sorry. None of this would have happened if I hadn't suggested not interrupting them." She hung her head low, as if she believed it was her idea that had led to Pearl's condition. "If you know you always cause trouble, then maybe you shouldn't talk so much." Richard's eyes bore into Esther, and his words were stern. Esther trembled, tears streaming down her face. Seeing Esther's distress, Mobius wrapped his arms around her, defending her. "Rick, Esther just wanted you to spend some time with Pearl and didn't want to interrupt you. Do you have to be so harsh?" Richard realized that, so he softened his expression and looked away. "That's not important now. What actually happened?" Hanzel, anxious at seeing Pearl lying on the floor, asked and