"Okay," Miguel hesitated for a moment, then agreed. His family was unaccustomed to the spotlight, but more importantly, he didn't want his wife to suffer further humiliation. He hadn't given Michelle much in life. Their wedding had been simple that year due to his mother's disapproval. Since then, there had been no grand celebrations for Michelle.

Miguel cared deeply for Michelle. Her birthday and their anniversary were always quiet, private affairs. He never expected their family's quiet warmth would be misinterpreted by outsiders. Since their marriage, Michelle had patiently endured family conflict to avoid upsetting him. The public's disdain, coupled with Lorie and Esther's contempt, filled him with guilt. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became.

"On your mother's 50th birthday, I must make her the happiest woman in the world!" Miguel declared.

"I knew you loved my mom so much," Hannah said delightedly. "I'll handle the banquet arrangements. Dad, just follow my instructions and surprise Mom later."

"Alright," Miguel said, trusting his daughter completely. "But don't overwork yourself."

"Don't worry," Hannah smiled brightly. "On Mom's birthday, I'll make sure you stun the whole scene—no, stun the whole country!"

"It's up to you," Miguel said, gazing at his daughter with affection.

"It's late. Go to bed early, Dad."

"You too."

"Good night."

Miguel went upstairs. Hannah remained in the hall for a while. She wasn't just planning this birthday banquet to set a trap for Charles; she genuinely wanted to ease her mother's suffering. During her marriage to Charles... her mother had even been scorned by Charles's mother. Loretta's contempt for Michelle was constant. But because Michelle didn't want to cause trouble for her daughter, she endured everything. To be a good daughter-in-law, Hannah had even ignored their treatment of her mother.

Thinking about it now, she wanted to slap herself. For Charles, she'd lost herself. Hannah gritted her teeth in regret. She would never repeat that mistake and would absolutely get revenge.

Half a month passed in a flash. Tomorrow was her mother's birthday. All the banquet preparations were kept secret from Michelle; she wanted to surprise her. Fifty was a milestone; she wanted her mother to experience what she deserved, making up for past regrets.

After confirming the banquet details with the attendant, she received a call from Oscar as she started her car. It was unusual; she hadn't spoken to him in months, nor had she contacted Charles. Charles was busy with the "Outstanding and Influential Youths" selection, preparing for a live speech. This selection was highly prestigious in Northfield; eighty percent of successful politicians had received this title, so Charles's dedication was understandable. His focus on his career meant less attention to her, which she actually welcomed. She didn't want to interact with Charles.

She answered her phone while driving, "Hello."

"Your mother's birthday is tomorrow, right?" Oscar asked.

"Did you receive the invitation?" Hannah replied. She'd personally confirmed all invitations with the attendant.

"Yes."

"Remember to come on time."

"I'll give my future mother-in-law a birthday present," Oscar said.

"No, you don't," Hannah calmly corrected. "It's already been given."

"Hmm?" Oscar was surprised.

"You'll see tomorrow," Hannah said, deliberately withholding information.

Oscar laughed and didn't press further. "Turn on the TV later when you have time," he added.

"What?"

"Half an hour from now. Remember to watch." Oscar hung up.

Puzzled, Hannah stared at her phone, wondering what he meant. But she didn't dwell on it, driving straight to Kensbury City's largest jewelry store. She called Susan as she entered, "Have you arrived?"

"Not yet, give me a minute."

"You're always late," Hannah complained.

"Hannah, I'm already bending over backward for you. I usually wake up at noon, and I'm here before eleven. What more do you want?"

"Drive safely, I'll wait."

"I'll hang up then."

Hannah put down her phone and went to a VIP room, guided by an attendant.

"Just a moment, Ms. Cooper. We'll bring your crown," the attendant said respectfully.

"Okay," Hannah nodded, sipping her coffee. A thought struck her. "Could you turn on the TV for me?"

The room had a TV.

"Certainly," the attendant quickly complied. "Would you like to watch Mr. Sawyer's speech?"

She then remembered the "Outstanding and Influential Youths" selection was today. Oscar's request to watch TV meant he wanted her to see Charles's speech? She didn't recall Oscar participating in this event before. He hadn't become so prominent until the second year of her marriage to Charles.

Watching the screen, Hannah gasped as the compere announced the candidates. Oscar's name was first on the list, and the camera showed him seated in the front row. His striking features were undeniable.

"Why is this guy on TV? And he's so handsome!" Susan exclaimed from the doorway.

Hannah explained, "The annual 'Outstanding and Influential Youths' selection in Northfield."

"The one Charles is running for? The one you prayed for at the temple?"

Hannah recoiled at Susan's mention of Charles's name, acutely aware of her aversion to him.