Chapter 707: The Feud (12) Stirring Up Trouble

Oscar relayed his plan to Manuel, concluding, "First, ensure Cian's safety." Manuel understood; his cousin prioritized Cian's life above all else.

What about Hannah? What about her unborn child? Manuel didn't voice these concerns; their unspoken understanding rendered them unnecessary. He simply wondered if Hannah would ultimately resent his cousin. "Right," he said, "I know what to do."

"Manuel," Oscar said, his voice thick with emotion—a rare display. His usual stoicism, honed during their brutal island training where he'd fearlessly led them to survival, belied a hidden anxiety. The situation, it seemed, was spiraling beyond his control.

"We can only succeed," Oscar stated firmly, "not fail."

Manuel nodded, his voice resolute. "I'll protect Cian with my life." Oscar sought only this assurance—Cian's protection before Hannah and the child. With Manuel's agreement, Oscar ended the call. Theodore, having just finished his own conversation with his father, watched Oscar, surprised to see such a strong man pushed to the brink. He silently hoped for a favorable outcome; the thought of any harm befalling those on the island was unbearable.

Three days after the state banquet incident, Oscar visited the Collins family, their surprise evident at his initiative.

"We shouldn't waste time," Oscar declared bluntly.

"Waste time? Have you a better plan?" Rowan, his trust in Oscar bolstered by Melvin's recent failure, readily admired his capabilities.

"Announce Melvin's death now, and crush the Balderstons amidst the ensuing chaos," Oscar proposed. "Delay risks their supporters consolidating power. Besides, Mrs. Balderston remains a threat; underestimate her at your peril."

Rowan considered Oscar's words.

Mathew, however, was more cautious. "We want to crush the Balderstons, but Melvin's death isn't confirmed. Announcing it so soon after his fall would raise suspicion. We need at least half a month, ideally a week even if his death is certain."

"Declare his death upon finding his body," Oscar countered.

"You have his body?" Mathew's excitement was palpable.

"No," Oscar admitted, "but I can procure one."

The Collinses were astonished. Oscar's quick thinking exceeded their own.

"Melvin's body, ravaged by the sea and the rocks, is unrecognizable," Oscar explained. "A fabricated DNA report will be easily arranged."

"Mr. Collins, a week's delay without a body breeds suspicion. Finding his body is the only way to convince everyone."

"Mathew, your thoughts?" Rowan asked, impatient to act decisively, fearing delay would invite disaster.

"Oscar's idea is feasible," Mathew agreed, eager to claim Northfield.

Sarah concurred.

"Good," Rowan said decisively. "I'll arrange a body. We'll announce Melvin's death the day after tomorrow, with a memorial service a week later. Oscar, you'll secure the Balderstons' key figures, utilizing my army if persuasion fails. We seize Northfield after the memorial."

"Yes," Oscar replied respectfully.

"Oscar, the future of our family rests on your shoulders! Success brings significant rewards," Rowan reiterated.

"I will not disappoint you," Oscar assured him.

"Have you found your wife?" Rowan asked abruptly.

"No. I'll act only after Melvin's death is publicized."

"That's why I admire you—prioritizing the larger picture. Find her afterwards. Reunite with your family... or not; your choice, I respect it." Rowan's support for a reconciliation with his wife, or even with Lillian, was implicit.

"Yes," Oscar responded, concealing his thoughts.

'If Oscar lacked his knowledge, I'd hesitate to eliminate him,' Rowan mused. 'Unfortunately, some serve only as stepping stones.'

"You may leave now; await my instructions," Rowan concluded.

"Yes," Oscar replied, departing.

Back home, he called Melvin.

Melvin, dining with Hannah and Cian, smiled faintly at the incoming call. "Everything alright?"

"Yes. And you?" Oscar inquired.

"Thanks to you, still alive," Melvin replied, glancing at Hannah, who remained composed despite knowing Oscar was on the line. Cian, too, showed no outward signs of anxiety.

"Mr. Balderston, your death will be announced the day after tomorrow, with a replacement body. I'll discreetly secure your supporters, aided by the Collins' army," Oscar revealed his detailed plan.