Chapter 1120: Under One Roof

In the quiet car, Hannah hesitated. She didn't want to live under the same roof as Oscar, but he was right. Doyle could seek revenge in Northfield, utilizing his considerable influence and resources. Understanding Doyle's rage at her departure, she feared the worst.

"How long?" she finally asked.

"I can't guarantee it," Oscar replied honestly, "but I'll aim for a month."

A month would suffice to solidify their agreement with Jolencami. Containing Doyle on their end should prevent further problems.

"Okay," Hannah agreed. Her acquiescence surprised Oscar; he anticipated greater resistance. He expected her to endure uncertainty rather than compromise by staying with him. Her ready agreement left him flustered.

He took a deep breath. "We'll be under one roof, but not in the guesthouse."

"I know."

Oscar's mansion offered the best security. Even if Doyle reached Northfield, he'd struggle to approach Hannah undetected.

Oscar's heart pounded, though he remained outwardly calm. Theodore, in the passenger seat, listened intently. Glancing at Oscar in the rearview mirror, he chuckled. Only around Hannah, Theodore mused, did Oscar seem truly human, not an emotionless automaton.

The car arrived. Both men exited, waiting for Hannah outside. Returning felt strange to Hannah; memories of Lillian flooded back. Yet, what choice did she have? She was a changed person, and this was merely temporary. Oscar watched, noting her hesitation. Would she change her mind?

Hannah emerged from the sedan.

"Let's go," she stated.

Oscar observed her composed face; the earlier hesitation vanished.

Theodore spoke suddenly, stepping aside. "I'm not coming in. Get some rest on the way back."

"I slept well on the plane," Theodore laughed, stretching languidly.

Oscar's face darkened, recalling Theodore's snoring. Theodore, ignoring Oscar's expression, added, "I'll be off then," and departed in the car.

Only Oscar and Hannah remained at the courtyard entrance, numerous guards present but largely unnoticed.

"Let's go inside," Oscar said, walking slowly, deliberately pacing himself.

They entered the hall, empty save for servants.

"Sal and Una are at kindergarten," Oscar explained, interpreting Hannah's expression. This, however, made Hannah frown; she found his ability to read minds unsettling.

"Go to your room, shower, and rest," Oscar suggested as they entered a room. "This is my room," he added.

Hannah's expression shifted.

"Don't misunderstand," Oscar said nervously. "I'm not sharing this room. Everything's been rearranged. I asked the servants to change things."

Hannah frowned.

"The house is large, but there are only four rooms besides the servants' quarters. Sal, Una, and I occupy three; the fourth was Lillian's, which I cleared for you." His words rushed; he feared Hannah's departure.

"Temporary accommodation; any room will do."

"I'm trying to avoid unhappy memories," he said.

"So, sleeping in your room conjures happy ones?" Hannah asked, her tone light and ironic.

He paused. "I thought it might be better."

Hannah chuckled; she was unconcerned.

"If you prefer, Sal can switch rooms..."

"No need," Hannah said. "It doesn't matter."

Nothing mattered.

Oscar understood and nodded. "Shower, rest. We'll have dinner when you wake."

"Mhm," Hannah murmured, entering the room.

Oscar helped close the door, then turned to leave, remembering something. He returned and opened the door.

Hannah, already undressed to her bra, felt soiled from her encounter with Doyle. Though nothing physical occurred, the intimate contact caused discomfort, a need to cleanse herself. She hadn't locked the door.

Oscar hadn't knocked. Their unexpected meeting left them both speechless.

Oscar saw Hannah's body, the faint bruises from kisses. He couldn't look away.