Chapter 177: Pathetic Chauvinism
Hearing that, Oscar smiled mockingly, as if amused by something hilarious. His smile, however, betrayed a distinct scorn.
Charles noticed the expression. He turned sullen. "Oscar," he said, "when people say you don't deserve to marry Hannah, you'll realize how foolish it is to keep your lady from the spotlight."
"That's the concern of the talentless," Oscar retorted, finally turning to look at him.
Charles appeared embarrassed and furious.
Oscar emphasized his words, "Only the untalented fear the talented. Truly talented people celebrate the success of others."
Before Charles could reply, Oscar continued, "I'm brilliant enough to allow others to shine. Frankly, no matter how exceptional Hannah becomes, I'm more than capable of matching her."
Embarrassed, Charles recognized Oscar's subtle mockery—a jealous, incapable man fearing being surpassed. Oscar, in contrast, exuded a confidence free from such anxieties. The implication was clear: Charles was far behind in every aspect.
Charles, of course, wouldn't accept this provocation. He saw Oscar as nothing more than a playboy. How dare he consider himself superior, his complacency stemming from a diploma and an award?
Still, Charles reaffirmed his ambition: the Cooper Group remained his ultimate goal. He believed the Wells Group would falter under Oscar's leadership.
He stood abruptly, huffing, "We'll see who wins!" Then, he stormed off.
Martina followed, seemingly consumed by jealousy of Hannah's achievement. In the past, Hannah had fallen victim to Charles's schemes, a naiveté Martina had found foolish. Yet, Hannah now stood on stage, celebrated as the greatest designer of all time. This was unbelievable to Martina, who left the hall with Charles.
Their departure prompted Oscar to raise his hand. Theodore, standing beside him, was equally stunned by Hannah's status. He'd never held a high opinion of her, even when Oscar fell for her. Now, she had captivated the world.
Theodore, though initially focused on Hannah, noticed Oscar's gesture. He approached, leaning in to whisper, "Keep an eye on Charles. Find out what family's backing him."
Theodore nodded. Oscar sensed Charles's rage. Fueled by jealousy, he would surely plot against Hannah. And once he acted, the person behind him would likely be revealed.
With the instruction given, Theodore departed to prepare. Oscar returned his gaze to the stage, captivated by Hannah's charm. He watched her bow to the thunderous applause, her exquisite smile radiant amidst the models and Gia. The product launch was a resounding success.
Hannah joined the models backstage. The guests began to leave. Hannah remained until completing a conversation with Gia—regarding her offer to open a retail store in the Light Building. The discussion was largely unnecessary; Gia had already accepted before the launch, requiring only Hannah's presence in return.
Hannah had first presented her designs to Celina at sixteen, keeping it secret for fear of rejection. Over time, her designs gained popularity. Celina had wanted to meet, but Charles, wanting Hannah by his side, had prevented it. He'd insisted on her dedication to their marriage, claiming he could handle her career.
At the time, she'd found his "love" touching and possessive. Now, she saw his actions as hypocritical, born not of love but a fear of her potential to surpass him and threaten his pursuit of the Cooper Group.
Hannah would not repeat her past naiveté. When Gia mentioned the offer, she accepted without hesitation. Since her return, she vowed to compromise with no one.
Leaving the hall, she saw a familiar limousine and Oscar, leaning on a crutch. Charles's past fear of her talent—his desperate attempts to keep her mediocre—became vividly clear. His actions epitomized pathetic chauvinism. Commonly, ego prevents men from accepting that they don't deserve such an exceptional woman.
"Hannah," Oscar said abruptly, "you know about my leg. I'm sorry I can't hug you myself." Hannah paused.