Chapter 439: Disappointed Hannah

Hannah awoke to find blood on her underwear. It had been two weeks since Oscar's last visit. Feeling despondent, she realized her period had arrived. The thought of Oscar's potential disappointment worried her.

After dressing and applying makeup, she went downstairs. Uncertainty gnawed at her; was she more disheartened than Oscar? She also felt apprehensive about facing Max.

At the dining table, Max presented his usual array of dishes.

"Max," Hannah began, struggling to voice the news.

"Is something amiss, Madam?" Max inquired.

"It's me," Hannah said, gritting her teeth. "I've started my period."

Max paused, his disappointment evident, but he replied, "It's alright. You and Mr. Wells are still young. You have plenty of time for children."

His words offered little solace.

"Madam, please eat more," Max urged. "Even if you're not pregnant, preparing for pregnancy and caring for your body are equally vital. A healthy body increases your chances of conception."

Hannah managed a weak smile and ate slowly, feeling listless and sighing heavily.

After breakfast, in the car Jimmy drove, she called Oscar. "Oscar," she began.

"You sound down," Oscar observed, raising an eyebrow.

"I hesitate to tell you, afraid of disappointing you," Hannah confessed, finding it difficult to explain.

"You've started your period," Oscar stated flatly.

"Did Max tell you?" Hannah asked, surprised.

"No, I guessed," Oscar replied. "Based on the timing, I knew it would be these next two days."

"Are you unhappy?" she asked.

"Not at all. I've been anticipating this for two days, so your confirmation is a relief," Oscar said. He continued, "I've been thinking… I'll return every month during your ovulation period."

Hannah was speechless.

"For conception, and for our health," Oscar explained logically. "Couples separated for extended periods and abstaining from sex are prone to endocrine disorders."

"You're just looking for an excuse to have sex with me, aren't you?" Hannah challenged.

"Amazing. You've read my mind," Oscar replied playfully.

Hannah admitted that Oscar's relaxed tone had considerably improved her mood; the earlier pressure had lifted.

"I'll be back on time next month," Oscar said.

"Whatever you want," Hannah replied nonchalantly, though a smile was clearly visible.

They exchanged a few more words before hanging up. Leaning back in the car, Hannah's smile persisted. The prospect of Oscar's monthly visits filled her with a quiet anticipation.

Through the rearview mirror, Jimmy, usually stoic, registered a faint smile. He was happy for them.

They arrived at the Cooper building. Rose offered Hannah a glass of milk. Though tempted by coffee, she remembered Max’s advice and declined.

"Did you assign the tasks I arranged yesterday?" Hannah asked Rose.

"Yes, and I'll deliver the results within the deadline."

"Good. Any plans for today?"

"No, but the Chairman's secretary just informed me that Fashion Magazine wants an exclusive interview. They're hoping you'll accept, for positive company exposure," Rose reported.

Hannah laughed, recognizing her father's hand in this.

"Let me know when the time is confirmed."

"Okay. You can leave now."

As Rose turned to go, a thought struck her. "Ms. Hannah, the Sawyer Group seems to be making moves."

Hannah's expression changed.

"Rumors suggest they're building an international e-commerce company—a strategic partnership with an international firm. They're reportedly investing heavily."

They had recently invested 9.9 billion in the South Bay New Town project, with marginal returns or possible losses, and a long repayment period. How could they afford this new venture? What was Charles up to?

Finding Hannah lost in thought, Rose gently called her name.

"Yes, yes, I understand. You can go back to your work."

"Yes."

After Rose left, Hannah called Theodore.

"Easy to manipulate, am I?" Theodore asked.

"Very," Hannah replied bluntly.

Theodore was silent, admitting his assistance was solely for Oscar's sake.

"What is it? Just say it," Theodore said impatiently.

Hannah detailed her concerns about the Sawyer Group's activities, requesting information on their e-commerce venture—investment amount, projected outcomes, the intermediary, and funding sources.

"Noted," Theodore responded lazily. "I'll call you back."

"Thank you."

"Thank Oscar," Theodore retorted before hanging up.

Hannah pursed her lips, considering the need for some disciplinary action towards Theodore. She returned to her work, when her phone rang. "Hi, Susan."

"I'm divorcing Manuel tomorrow."

"Susan, I think…"

"I'm informing you, not seeking your persuasion," Susan interrupted. "Our marriage is over."

Hannah stopped, stating, "If you regret it later, that's your problem. I won't sympathize."

"Hmph," Susan dismissed her.