Chapter 424: An Interviewee

In Wold Castle, after Theodore's departure, Oscar and Laird were alone.

"Master Oscar," Laird began directly, "I hear the aristocratic families have been closely watching you."

Oscar nodded.

"Have they discovered your identity?"

"No," Oscar shook his head. "I've merely made them feel threatened, Charles Sawyer especially."

"You previously asked me to investigate Charles. He's close to the Collins family. If we're not mistaken, they share a secret, and the Collins family is remarkably tolerant of him," Laird mused. "Otherwise, given his recent performance, they would have abandoned him long ago. His continued association is unusual."

"Find out more about him," Oscar instructed.

"Yes," Laird replied respectfully. "You're under close surveillance, young master. Should I assign someone to your protection?"

"No," Oscar refused. "More people around me only increase the risk of exposure. Don't worry; I can handle myself."

"Very well," Laird said, knowing Oscar's discretion. He then asked, "How is he? I haven't been to the Capital in some time."

"He's fine. Don't worry."

"Good," Oscar replied.

"When will you depart for River Town, Master Oscar?"

"I leave early the day after tomorrow."

"Be careful."

"I will."

"By the way," Laird inquired, "how are things with Hannah?"

"What's that supposed to mean?" Oscar asked sharply.

"I support your marriage. It would be advantageous to secure the Cooper Group's allegiance. But some elders fear you might become…distracted," Laird hesitated, then continued.

Oscar chuckled. "Uncle Laird, do you really think I'm that kind of person?"

"No, I merely heard Theodore mention your long-standing affection for Hannah. I was simply curious."

"I do care for Hannah, but it doesn't conflict with my career. You needn't worry, Uncle Laird," Oscar assured him seriously. "Besides, Hannah isn't what you might imagine. She'll be a great asset."

"In that case, I'm relieved! I'll clarify any concerns from others."

"Thank you, Uncle Laird."

"Will you stay for lunch?" Laird offered.

"No," Oscar declined. "I'm going back to my parents' home. Staying away too long would arouse suspicion."

"You're thoughtful."

"I must go." Oscar rose.

"I'll see you out."

"No need," Oscar said with a smile. "Oh, and congratulations, Uncle Laird."

Laird paused, understanding. He sighed helplessly. "Theodore is hopeless. Even marriage and fatherhood haven't matured him. I don't understand why he's so different from me."

"Perhaps he takes after his mother," Oscar offered frankly.

Laird nodded slowly, his voice heavy. "Indeed, he is like her."

"I'm sorry."

"Theodore was only two years old at the time," Laird said. "I've come to terms with it."

Oscar smiled faintly. "Take care, Uncle Laird. I'm off."

"Take care, young master."

Oscar left. In his car, he called Theodore. "I'm heading out, Theodore."

"Where to? I'm almost finished here."

"Going back to my parents'."

"Then I'll come by."

"You're about to be a father. Don't run around. Take care of your wife."

"Damn it. Are you laughing at me?" Theodore retorted.

Oscar chuckled. "No. I'm…envious."

Theodore had a child; he didn't.

"You're being sarcastic, aren't you?" Theodore doubted Oscar's envy. He'd always been outmatched by Oscar.

"Forget it," Oscar said, unconcerned. "I'll hang up."

After disconnecting, Oscar texted Hannah: "Theodore's going to be a father."

Hannah was interviewing someone. A brief break allowed her to check her phone.

So, Theodore and Little Bunny? she thought. In her past life, she hadn't known much about their relationship. She knew they were secretly married but not how it happened. She assumed an accidental pregnancy led to the marriage.

She replied, "They're quick."

"Yes, Theodore's two months younger than me, yet he has a child," Oscar texted, his tone tinged with sarcasm.

Why would Oscar want a child so young? Hannah wondered. In her past life, she'd never wanted children until her late twenties. Oscar was only twenty-five. Where did this paternal instinct come from?

She didn't reply immediately.

"Continue working. I'll pick you up after work," Oscar texted.

"Okay," Hannah replied.

Putting down her phone, Hannah turned to her interviewee.

The interviewee introduced himself: "Hello, interviewers. My name is Tan Laurier. I'm twenty-eight, a graduate of the University of Virginia. During college, I interned at Stern Group, Allens Group, and Godia Group. After graduation, I declined their offers and joined James Group in Country M, rising from an ordinary employee to Sales Director in six years, becoming a leadership candidate. Now, due to family matters, I've returned to Northfield to pursue opportunities. I'm applying for the position of General Assistant to the Vice President of Cooper Group."

Hannah listened attentively. Tan Laurier was the most impressive of many applicants, exceeding her expectations.