Chapter 1107

Hannah was speechless. She didn't understand Heather's meaning. "About us?" she asked, blinking in puzzlement.

Heather lightly grazed Hannah's lips with her fingers, a mocking smile playing on her face. "You're feigning ignorance, aren't you? Hannah, I've noticed you've been pensive since our outing." She gazed into Hannah's panic-stricken eyes, so like her own.

Hannah replied quickly, "No, I haven't, Heather. I know what you mean, but I didn't! I swear it. I admit I like him, but I didn't say anything inappropriate. This is a huge secret! Only Mom, Dad, and a few family members know about us. I didn't tell him anything!"

Anxious that Heather wouldn't believe her, she spoke rapidly, remaining still as Heather pinched her chin. Hannah met Heather's gaze directly, refusing to avert her eyes.

"I'm not stupid, Heather. Telling him about us would be disastrous. What would I gain? Would he marry me? Of course not! He wants you, and our family's wealth. He saw you when I was with him. I know that!" Tears welled in Hannah's eyes, large, warm drops that felt uncomfortable against Heather's fingers. Heather shuddered and instinctively withdrew her hand.

"Heather, believe me. Every word is true!" Hannah insisted, tears streaming down her face.

She truly hadn't told Ralph anything. Despite her desire to, she hadn't revealed that she and Heather were different people. Selfishly, she'd hoped he'd call her Annie.

"Okay, I believe you. Why are you crying? You're such a crybaby," Heather frowned, wiping away the tears on her hand with a grimace.

"Thank God! My biggest fear is you not believing me! If you don't like me crying, I'll stop," Hannah quickly dabbed at her eyes.

Heather watched Hannah clumsily wipe her tears, shaking her head. She was right; it was impossible. Revealing the secret wouldn't benefit her. Besides, Ralph was an idiot and couldn't do anything even if he knew.

Yet, his earlier confidence in knowing her secret was unsettling. After considering it, Heather concluded he was likely playing a game, trying to gain something from her, having lost hope of seizing control of the Russells from Alexander.

This explanation seemed most plausible, and she dismissed the matter.

"Go to the company and handle things. No need to say anything more; I've already given instructions," Heather said. She didn't actually need Hannah; she could manage most things remotely. But maintaining a public presence was necessary to confuse others.

A coughing fit wracked Heather's throat.

"You've had a bad cough lately, Heather. I made some honey lemon tea. It'll soothe your throat. Let me get you some," Hannah offered, hurrying to the kitchen.

Heather didn't stop her, slowly composing herself after a prolonged coughing spell. She slowly surveyed the small room. This basement was Hannah's designated space; there was no escape. This was her fate.

Hannah soon returned with a steaming cup. "Heather, drink it while it's hot."