At the press conference, the first leader finished speaking and bowed deeply, seemingly contrite for causing such a stir. He likely hadn't anticipated the ensuing public outcry, which nearly cost him his job, forcing a public explanation.

Charles watched the video, his anger bordering on rage. He'd intended to use this opportunity to banish Oscar. Even if Oscar won this round, Charles planned to send him far from Kensbury City, preventing any future appearances and effectively derailing his career. A transfer to River Town would stagnate Oscar's advancement; regardless of performance, a small city offered limited opportunities. Even a top leadership position there wouldn't threaten Charles's own ascent. He aimed to deliver a humiliating blow, ensuring Oscar understood that even success wouldn't provide leverage against him.

Unexpectedly, public pressure compelled City Hall to impose a term limit on Oscar's River Town assignment, allowing his return in six months. This meant Oscar might not achieve senior status within that timeframe, leaving Charles with the last laugh. Worse, Oscar's River Town experience might even boost his future prospects. The potential implications darkened Charles's mood considerably.

For the first time, he questioned his own superiority over Oscar. Why were his schemes consistently thwarted? He even briefly entertained the notion of his own inadequacy. Quickly dismissing this, he reaffirmed his belief in Oscar's insignificance—a recently lucky individual enjoying a temporary career boost.

Charles possessed significant influence; he wouldn't allow Oscar to prevail. Six months provided ample time to maneuver, preventing Oscar's return to Kensbury City. He gritted his teeth, suppressing his fury.

In stark contrast to Charles's rage, Hannah was overjoyed. City Hall's decision regarding Oscar elicited an overwhelming urge to applaud his astuteness. How brilliantly he had handled the situation! In her previous life, she hadn't fully appreciated his capabilities. His swift response, public relations mastery, and ability to shape public opinion were exceptional. He could easily dominate the entertainment industry.

As she pondered this, her phone rang. Her elation was immediately apparent to Susan.

Susan scoffed, "Look at you, so smug."

"How do you know?"

"Jealousy! Pure jealousy!" Susan exclaimed, "How did you even notice Oscar? We were in the same crash; you're the only one who chose him after your head injury! Why wasn't my brain injured? If it had been, Oscar might be mine!"

"Though Oscar is good..."

Hannah wholeheartedly admired his handling of the matter, a sentiment rarely elicited. In her previous life, she'd underestimated him.

"See? You're practically radiating smugness," Susan interrupted.

Hannah found the conversation exhausting.

"Oscar used to be such a jerk. How did he completely rehabilitate his image? I've forgotten the old Oscar. Now he seems just… good. Handsome, capable, righteous, patriotic, dedicated, and incredibly kind to his wife! Compared to him, Charles is trash!"

"Really? All of that?" Hannah was momentarily speechless, despite her inner delight.

"Yes, he's that good. Hannah, you've got a treasure. Cherish him."

Hannah's involuntary smile went unnoticed.

"I will. You should cherish Manuel, too," Hannah replied.

"I'm calling to congratulate Oscar's promotion, his survival in River Town, and wish him good luck. Why bring up Manuel? You're ruining my moment," Susan complained.

"He's truly excellent..."

"I don't care. Don't mention him," Susan insisted.

Hannah sighed; Susan's bias against Manuel wouldn't vanish overnight.

"I'm buying!" Susan abruptly changed the subject.

Hannah struggled to keep up with her erratic shifts in thought.

"What?"

"You're treating! Your honey got promoted, aren't you celebrating?" Susan declared.

"Where shall we go?" Hannah conceded.

"You know."

Susan meant Heroic, a restaurant she frequented, whose fare Manuel disliked.

"Somewhere else?"

"Why?" Susan's tone soured.

"Oscar can't handle spicy food."

"A Kensbury City native can't handle spice? I don't believe it," Susan doubted.

"Taste is subjective," Hannah explained.

"So, where do you suggest?" Susan relented.

"Grain and Field? They have diverse options, spicy and mild."

"Fine," Susan, though not entirely selfless, agreed. "Let's do it tonight!"

"So soon? I haven't told Oscar yet."

"He always listens to you. It doesn't matter when you tell him," Susan confidently asserted Oscar's obedience. She believed Hannah's good fortune in finding such a man was unparalleled.

"May I invite a few friends?" Hannah asked.

"Theodore?"

"Including him," Hannah confirmed, withholding some details.

"Of course! More friends for Oscar's celebration."

"Tonight then. I'll call you back."

"Waiting to hear from you," Susan said before hanging up.

Hannah smiled, a profound happiness washing over her as she realized she needed to call Oscar again.