Hannah watched Charles's presentation. He looked visibly nervous. This was unusual for him; he wouldn't have been nervous in the past. Was it Oscar's preceding speech that heightened the pressure?
Objectively, regardless of public perception, Charles held no advantage over Oscar, perhaps even a disadvantage. After Oscar's rise that year, Hannah knew Charles lacked Oscar's abilities. She, and others, had secretly helped Charles considerably. Despite this extensive support, Charles still couldn't surpass Oscar, highlighting his inferiority.
"Why do I suddenly feel Charles is… underwhelming?" Susan commented, glancing at the television screen. The waiter, previously engaged in lively conversation with Susan, wisely remained silent.
Everyone knew Charles was Hannah's fiancé, their wedding imminent. No one dared criticize Charles in Hannah's presence—except Susan. The waiter was surprised by Hannah's lack of reaction to Susan's assessment; she seemed to concur. Were the rumors of Hannah and Charles's love false?
In the VIP reception room, the focus was on the Outstanding Young Person selection. Five applicants gave live presentations. Oscar's speech was exceptional, instantly captivating the audience and eclipsing his competitors.
The selection was judged on-site by a panel of senior judges. In Hannah's previous life, Charles had won this award. This time, however, she felt a familiar nervousness as the host held the results card. "The results of the live selection are in," the host announced. "Based on the five participants' contributions to society and their presentations, the first-place winner is…"
Tension filled the room. The attendant watched the screen, hands clasped, equally nervous. She wondered if this life's events were diverging from her previous one. She maintained her composure.
The host, deliberately prolonging the suspense, paused for a full ten seconds before reading, "Charles Sawyer!"
The room erupted in applause. The camera focused on Charles; Hannah noticed the fleeting tension on his face before his usual calm and gentle demeanor returned. He bowed deeply, appearing humble and refined.
"Che," Susan scoffed, disappointed. "No surprises."
"Master Oscar was better…" the waiter mumbled, regretful but cautious.
Hannah experienced a moment of loss. She'd hoped to change things. She composed herself, preparing to leave.
Then, the host exclaimed, "And, Oscar Wells!"
On screen, Charles's smile faltered, betraying his surprise. The camera switched to Oscar, who remained serenely composed, accepting the result with grace, whether he won or lost.
"He's such a good sport!" Susan exclaimed, though her tone held a hint of resentment. Oscar's performance was undeniably impressive.
"I told you Master Oscar was better," the waiter said, quickly adding, "but Mr. Sawyer is excellent as well," fearful of offending Hannah.
Hannah chuckled. Oscar had truly surprised her. "Let's go," she told Susan.
"Aren't you staying to watch the awards ceremony?" Susan asked.
Rarely swayed, Hannah instructed a staff member, "Please take this crown to Cooper Manor."
Hannah and Susan left, Susan glancing back several times. On screen, Oscar and Charles were shown together. Hannah's keen eye noted Oscar's superior appearance.
In the car, Susan excitedly discussed Oscar, while Hannah remained silent.
"I'm meeting Manuel for lunch," Hannah announced.
Susan froze. "What did you say?"
Hannah repeated, "I'm meeting Manuel for lunch at Heroic, your favorite restaurant."
"Are you crazy?" Susan exclaimed, visibly upset.
Hannah laughed. "Why the fuss? Manuel's back. As friends, shouldn't you welcome him?"
"He's been back for half a month! And since when are you friends?"
"We grew up together! That's friendship, isn't it?"
"You know I hate him!" Susan protested.
"I seem to recall you saying you liked him once," Hannah said, a smile playing on her lips.
Susan's face flushed. "That was youthful folly! I was fifteen or sixteen. I didn't know what I liked. Meeting Henry showed me what true love is."
"Is that so?" Hannah asked.
"Yes! Henry and I are more in love than you and Charles! We're going to grow old together!" Susan declared emphatically.