Chapter 684: Coming Storm (6)

Oscar texted back, "Thank you, Mr. Balderston." He then called Theodore, requesting assistance in evading the Collins' spies.

Twenty minutes later, Oscar arrived at Balderston Manor. Melvin awaited him in the parlor, appearing sullen. Oscar sensed his exasperation; neither aristocratic family welcomed threats.

Melvin sneered, "Oscar, tell me about your plan against the Collins."

"No, I must see Hannah first," Oscar insisted. "Mr. Balderston, your generosity should grant my wish."

Melvin's face flushed. Glaring, he gestured to a servant, who led Hannah into the room. Jimmy followed, his expression conflicted, while Hannah remained composed. Though only days had passed since their separation, Oscar felt centuries had gone by. Before he could approach, Melvin interrupted, "Stay where you are."

Oscar halted. Hannah watched him calmly. "I agreed to your wish, but you will not meet her alone."

Sulkiness clouded Oscar's face. Though he anticipated this, he was still upset. After a pause, he asked, "Hannah, are you alright?"

Hannah retorted, "Oscar, what kind of answer do you expect?"

Oscar was speechless.

"If I said I felt fine in a strange, dangerous place, would you believe me?"

He remained silent.

"Sorry," he finally offered.

"It's okay," Hannah replied calmly, knowing there was nothing else she could do. "But I don't have the right to hate you, do I?"

Oscar stared.

"I won't hate you," she continued. "My life depends on your actions. I dare not annoy you; I might be killed if you're exasperated."

"Hannah, stop," Oscar groaned, feeling a profound pain. Her words pierced him; he felt suffocated.

"Okay, I'll be quiet," Hannah said obediently. "I'll do whatever it takes to survive." Survival was her paramount concern.

"Believe me! I'll keep you alive!" Oscar promised.

Hannah offered a bitter smile. She doubted his ability to protect her, despite believing in his sincerity. She stopped speaking, aware that prolonged conversation might arouse Melvin's suspicion. She knew Oscar had come to ensure her safety; guilt-ridden, he needed to see her alive. He was also attempting to solidify his loyalty to Melvin by demonstrating his deep affection for Hannah, hoping to gain more trust. Furthermore, he needed to inform Hannah of his plan against both the Collins and Balderston families, requiring her preparedness.

Hannah understood his plan, but could only wait and endure the coming consequences.

Silence fell between them; to others, it seemed like an argument. Melvin finally asked, "Finished?" implying they could separate.

Oscar looked up, silent. Hannah spoke first, casually, "Yes, may I go now?"

"Are you sure you don't want a few more minutes? It might be your last chance to see him," Melvin said.

Oscar glared at Melvin, his face darkening.

"Don't worry, I won't harm her. I'm talking about you. It's war; casualties are inevitable," Melvin explained smoothly.

"Mr. Balderston, I believe you're a man of your word."

"Of course," Melvin replied emotionlessly. Turning to Hannah, he said, "Get some rest. You need to take care of yourself, especially now that you're pregnant."

Hannah glanced at Melvin, then Oscar, showing little emotion before leaving. Oscar watched her go.

"Stop looking. She'll be returned to you if you play your part well."

Oscar averted his gaze, fighting back emotion. Hannah was tougher than he expected, skillfully feigning conflict while concealing her disappointment. He regained his composure.

"I've devised a plan against the Collins, and I've lured them into a trap," Oscar announced.

"Tell me," Melvin said, his expression serious.

"I told the Collins about our deal."

Rage contorted Melvin's face.

"I did it to expedite the war, to get Hannah back sooner," Oscar admitted.

"Why didn't you tell me first? Are you asking for death?" Melvin's fury was evident.

"Mr. Balderston, while selfish, I considered the overall situation. I couldn't risk Hannah's life. I'm confident of success."

"You'd better pray for a quick death!" Melvin gritted his teeth.

"The fake peace between you and the Collins has lasted decades, masking brewing conspiracies. Neither side was confident enough to attack. But if an opportunity arises, you'll seize it. You wouldn't want another decade of this charade."

Melvin glared, silent.

"So I provoked the Collins into starting the war," Oscar emphasized.