Chapter 277: Embarrassed Lorie

Lorie's accusations against Miguel and Hannah were broadcast live on numerous news platforms. Under the media spotlight, Lorie presented a pitiful spectacle, weeping and loudly denouncing Miguel and Hannah as heartless individuals who had evicted her and left her to starve. Esther, playing the dutiful daughter-in-law, offered constant comfort, urging Lorie to calm herself for her health's sake. She pledged her support, vowing to care for Lorie for the rest of her life, regardless of Miguel's actions or Roger's imprisonment.

Their performance garnered significant sympathy online, resulting in a torrent of criticism directed at Miguel and Hannah. Their names topped search trends, with netizens condemning their perceived lack of filial piety, some even advocating a boycott of the Cooper Group and calling for police intervention on suspicion of elder abuse. The internet was ablaze with outrage over Lorie's plight—until a video emerged.

While Lorie tearfully recounted her mistreatment, unaware that her own behavior was being exposed, a reporter interrupted. "Madam," she said, "You claim Miguel and Hannah mistreated you. Can you detail this? Did they assault or verbally abuse you? Or did a conflict arise from unreasonable demands on your part?"

"I made no unreasonable demands," Lorie insisted. "I've always been forgiving. They're only targeting me now because of Roger's troubles and my lack of unconditional support for Miguel. I wouldn't condemn them like this if I hadn't been forced into a corner. I didn't want to embarrass the family…"

The reporter cut her off. "Madam, this isn't your first public condemnation of Miguel and Hannah." Her tone was noticeably colder.

Lorie stammered an explanation: "It's because they forced me into a corner! I've always worked for my family and children. Everything Miguel has is thanks to me, his mother! I do so much, only to be treated this way by an ungrateful son. I can't forgive him, even in death."

"You said you never made unreasonable demands," the reporter pressed. "Is requesting ten million dollars unreasonable?"

Lorie froze.

"And is asking your grandson to assault your granddaughter unreasonable?"

Lorie's demeanor shifted. Her pitiful facade crumbled, replaced by anger. "Who told you that? Don't slander me, or I'll sue!"

"Madam, the video of your scene at Miguel's office is now online," the reporter retorted, displaying the footage. "You claimed poor health? It seems you're quite robust."

Lorie stared at the video, her composure shattering. Esther's expression mirrored the shock. Their live performance was broadcast, much to the satisfaction of those they had deceived.

The revelation of Lorie's lies was a swift and public humiliation. She hadn't anticipated Hannah's counter-strategy.

"Madam, you're elderly. Do some good deeds, for your afterlife," the reporter said, her voice laced with exasperation. "Even tigers don't eat their young, yet you try to ruin your son's life! If not for this video, your son and granddaughter would be devastated! Your actions will ultimately lead to your own downfall. Didn't you learn anything from your eldest son?"

The incident was unprecedented in Northfield, sparking immense public anger. Lorie and Esther fled the live stream in disgrace, their credibility irrevocably damaged.

This resolved one of Hannah's problems. She'd moved on, refusing to waste time on inconsequential people. She felt a deep satisfaction in exposing Lorie.

Hannah checked the time; it was 6 PM. Her work was progressing well, eliminating the need for daily overtime. She left in Jimmy's car, heading home.

Oscar wasn't at his villa. He'd been unusually busy since helping her with the lawsuit, working long hours.

"Mrs. Wells, dinner is ready," Max announced respectfully.

"I'll wait for Oscar," Hannah replied.

"Mr. Wells is busy lately and often returns late," Max explained.

"It's fine. I'm not that hungry," Hannah said, turning on the television. "I'll watch some variety shows and relax."

Max left, a quiet happiness bubbling within him. He'd always suspected Oscar's feelings were genuine, and Hannah's actions confirmed it. The old Mrs. Wells could finally rest in peace.

After 9 PM, Oscar arrived, surprised to find Hannah still awake. Usually, she'd be in bed by now.

"Master Oscar," Max explained, "Mrs. Wells is waiting to have dinner with you."

Oscar's gaze locked onto Hannah. His prolonged stare made her shy.

"I wanted to talk to you," she said, "not just wait for you."

"Really?" Oscar smiled. His smile captivated her. He moved closer, his eyes fixed on hers. "Or are you waiting because you miss me?"