Chapter 150: A Shameless Guy

Susan went downstairs for water, her face unpleasant. The unexpected proposal had led to considerable celebratory drinking at the banquet; though not drunk, she was thirsty. This thirst was the reason she encountered Manuel. She wished to avoid him entirely.

However, Henry's announcement that the wedding was set for the 22nd of next month—a day he considered blessed—was welcome news. It meant she wouldn't have to endure Manuel's presence in her home after that date.

Meanwhile, Manuel entered his room. A knock sounded. He opened the door, surprised to find Justine, his mother. "Mom, you're up late," he said, forcing a smile.

"How's Oscar?" Justine asked, aware of his cousin's recent car accident.

"Just a slight fracture," Manuel replied. "He'll be in the hospital a couple of days for observation to rule out a concussion. He'll be discharged soon if all's well."

"What exactly happened?" Justine pressed.

"A car accident," Manuel said evasively.

"Manuel!" Justine warned, her face serious.

"It was because of Hannah," he admitted.

Justine looked stunned. "Mom, Oscar knows what he's doing," Manuel continued, defending Hannah. "He risked his life for her. She's important to him, and she deserves it."

"Of course I know that," Justine replied. "Do you think I'd impose my ideas on Oscar? If he loves Hannah, I support them."

Manuel smiled in agreement.

"But what about you?" Justine shifted the topic. "Susan got engaged tonight. How do you feel?" Her direct concern for her son was unusual, but her maternal care was evident.

"I'm good," Manuel replied calmly.

Justine remained unconvinced.

"Don't worry," Manuel reassured her. "I'm tough. I've been ready for anything since returning from abroad. Suicide is the last thing I'd consider."

Justine sighed. "Susan doesn't deserve your love."

The conversation ended there. "Alright, time for bed," Justine said.

"Good night," Manuel replied, smiling.

As he watched her go, the smile faded. He knew time would lessen the pain.

Hannah awoke the next morning feeling groggy. Only then did she fully realize Oscar's accident was her fault. She sprang up to find him sleeping soundly. Relief washed over her; it was just after 8:00 AM. She'd slept only five hours, having fallen asleep around 3:00 AM.

Unable to return to sleep, Hannah observed Oscar's sleeping face. The wound was stark against his handsome features. She felt immense guilt at the possibility of scarring his face, a face she considered a masterpiece.

"Do you find me attractive?" Oscar murmured, eyes closed.

Embarrassed, Hannah looked away, focusing on the wound. She was surprised he'd noticed her gaze.

"Come over here," Oscar said.

"I want to sleep," she protested.

"I need to use the bathroom," he said.

"I can't get up," he insisted. "Are you going to watch me pee on the bed?"

Finally giving in, she rose to help him. Her act of kindness was impulsive, without considering her own state of dress. After all, he was injured because of her.

"The doctor didn't give you a catheter?" she asked, bending to help him.

Then she saw his gaze and realized, to her horror, that she was nearly naked. Her evening gown had slipped off during the night.

"Ah!" she cried, covering her chest.

Oscar seemed momentarily oblivious to the situation.

"Don't look!" Hannah exclaimed, turning away. They had been at the hospital, with no opportunity to shower or change after the banquet. She had slept in her gown.

"You're beautiful," he commented, smiling.

Enraged that he continued to look, Hannah stormed to the closet for hospital pajamas. She then rushed to the bathroom, realizing her disheveled appearance and messy makeup. She couldn't believe he’d made a pass at her like that.

She showered, completely forgetting Oscar's urgent need. Emerging refreshed, she found him livid with frustration.

Hannah laughed. He deserved it! If he'd asked her to change, she wouldn't have taken so long.

Walking toward him, she asked, "Did you pee? Should I call for help to change the sheets?"

"You'll have to feel around with your hand," he retorted.

Hannah was speechless.