Chapter 279: It Was a Total Lie

Hannah meant what she said. It wasn't simply self-preservation; she felt a deep debt to Oscar and needed to make amends. In her past life, while Charles pursued political advancement, she'd orchestrated underhanded tactics against Oscar. The most egregious occurred during an election campaign. Oscar's popularity significantly surpassed Charles'; victory seemed unlikely. Selfishly, Hannah had uncovered and publicized a scandal alleging Oscar's promiscuity.

At the time, she believed the rumors, deeming the exposure justified. Later, however, she realized the evidence was likely fabricated by Charles. Oscar had maintained a celibate lifestyle long beforehand. She couldn't understand his inaction during the campaign, his passive acceptance of the false accusations, or his subsequent withdrawal from the race. This setback significantly hampered his political rise, though he eventually caught up in their previous life. Now, Hannah was determined to rectify her mistakes and reclaim everything Charles had unjustly gained.

"Hannah," Oscar said, his expression turning serious. He set down his fork and gently lifted her chin with his slender fingers. Hannah's eyes widened slightly as she gazed at his touch.

"I'll say it again," Oscar murmured, his voice unusually low. "What I want isn't a bright future. I want…"

Hannah stared, her heart pounding, her gaze fixed on him. His thin lips parted, forming a single word: "You."

"Fine," Hannah replied unexpectedly.

Oscar had braced himself for silence, but her sudden response surprised him. "On the day you achieve a bright future," she said, "I'll marry you, body and soul."

"That's settled, then," Oscar agreed instantly.

The next day, at three o'clock, Rose reminded Hannah about that evening's anniversary celebration. Hannah glanced at Oscar; he was engrossed in a video game. This was his idea of "thorough preparation"? News reports showed Charles, his rival, engaging in charitable work at an orphanage – a clear popularity play. In Northfield, votes directly determined election outcomes, making public image crucial. Yet, Oscar remained home, prioritizing entertainment over image enhancement.

Should she criticize him?

"Can you please stop staring?" Oscar said lazily, his slender fingers still manipulating his phone.

How had he even noticed?

Hannah snapped, "Charles is already campaigning."

"Useless. He always loses to me," Oscar replied casually, his eyes glued to his screen. He was clearly enjoying himself.

Hannah was speechless. "I'm choosing a dress. Are you coming?"

"Ten minutes."

"Two, at most."

"Five," Oscar countered.

"I'm going."

"Hannah!" Oscar's tone held a hint of annoyance. "Can't you indulge me a little?"

Hannah's skin prickled. How could a grown man say such things?

"Considering how much I love you," Oscar complained, "I'll stop playing." He put down his phone.

Immediately, Theodore's shrill cries echoed from the device: "Oscar, Oscar, go, go, go…" The game ended.

"Let's go," Oscar said, logging off, rising, and approaching Hannah.

Hannah felt a pang of guilt; Theodore's cries had sounded so sad. Still, she straightened her back. "Oscar, you're a grown man. Spend less time gaming."

"You don't like it?"

"It's a waste of time."

"I need time for others," Oscar said unexpectedly.

Hannah was confused.

"Though I belong to you, I need balance, to avoid family conflicts."

"Do you have an affair with Theodore?" Hannah asked, serious. Why else use "family conflicts"?

Oscar glared, nearly losing his composure. "Hannah, are you unaware of my sexual orientation?"

"Who knows?" Hannah challenged. "I haven't tested it."

"Oh? Care to try?" Oscar's eyes hardened.

"No!" Hannah fled the villa, Oscar smiling and pursuing her. This, apparently, was how they flirted.

Max watched their retreating figures with amusement, while Jimmy, waiting at the door, was flabbergasted. When had Mr. Wells become like this? He must have misjudged him. Oscar Wells, the heartless man, was acting childishly. Then, he saw Oscar grab Hannah and pin her against the car.

"Jimmy, turn around," Oscar ordered. Jimmy obeyed. A sound followed: "Oscar. Mm…" Silence.

People said Oscar Wells shunned women. A total lie!

Hannah, lips swollen, went dress shopping with Celina. She was irritated.

"Mrs. Wells," a staff member greeted respectfully.

Hannah composed herself. "My dress is ready?"

"Yes, ma'am. And Mr. Wells'," the staff added.

"You prepared clothes for me?" Oscar was surprised.

"Designed by Ms. Hannah," the staff member hastened to explain. "Mr. Wells, you'll love it."

"Really?" Oscar grinned, clearly delighted.

"Don't flatter yourself. I just didn't want you to embarrass yourself," Hannah said, a touch annoyed.

"Women always say yes and mean no," Oscar quipped.

That's not my style at all, Hannah thought.