Chapter 485 A Little Brush

"They're returning you? So soon!" Venus exclaimed, surprised.

"It's been half a year," Oscar replied.

"How time flies," Venus mused. "You won't return to River Town after this?"

"I don't think so."

"That's wonderful! I worried you couldn't care for yourself so far away. It's so good to have you back; you two can start planning a pregnancy soon!" Venus beamed.

Hannah was speechless at the Wells family's eagerness for a grandchild. Karen, however, reacted with barely concealed hostility to the pregnancy plans. Venus left after dinner, subtly warning Karen. Hannah knew, regardless of Karen's age, Venus would always favor her, reinforcing Karen's egotism and hypocrisy.

Venus's departure was a relief. Hannah turned to Karen. "I'll show you your room."

"Thank you, Hannah," Karen said, unusually well-behaved. "Sorry to bother you."

Hannah smiled faintly; if Karen were truly sorry, she wouldn't have come. She led Karen upstairs.

Oscar observed them. He knew Hannah had had a difficult day, forced to be pleasant to Karen despite her resentment. His sentimental attachment to the Wells family prevented him from being openly hostile to Karen, unless her actions became truly excessive.

Hannah showed Karen the guest room. "You can sleep here. It's getting colder; you can adjust the radiator. This button increases the heat; that one decreases it."

Karen remained silent, as expected. Hannah led her to the bathroom. "The toiletries are fresh. If you dislike them, tell Max your preferences, and he'll buy them."

Ignoring Karen's continued silence, Hannah continued, "This drains the tub. The temperature is automatic. This remote controls the massage function. Or you can shower using this."

"The toilet is automatic, like yours. By the way, when is your period due? We didn't stock tampons; I can get some if you need them."

"No need. It just ended," Karen replied.

After showing Karen the facilities, Hannah said, "If you need anything, call Max or me."

"Hannah, don't you hate me?" Karen finally asked.

"Of course I do," Hannah answered directly.

"Why are you so calm? I'm here to cause trouble, and you know how disruptive I can be. When Janet was here, you avoided me. Why are you so composed now? No wonder my brother is so smitten," Karen observed, puzzled by Hannah's composure.

Hannah sneered. "Will you give up your mischief now that no one else is here? Go ahead, scream—everyone will hear you."

Karen glared.

"Karen, for the sake of peace, behave yourself. I'm not afraid of you, but I won't waste my time on you."

Karen bristled at Hannah's contempt.

"It's late. I'm going to rest." Hannah left, unwilling to waste her breath. Her conscience was clear; she would face whatever Karen threw at her.

Back in her room, Hannah found Oscar already there. She had assumed he'd stayed downstairs. Their eyes met. Before Oscar could speak, Hannah turned and went to the bathroom, leaving Oscar to sigh. Startled by Oscar waiting at the bathroom door, Hannah asked, "What was that for?"

"You finally spoke to me," Oscar smiled.

Hannah passed him silently.

Oscar embraced her. She smelled of cleansing gel, her damp skin alluring. He’d intended a simple compliment, but desire overwhelmed him. He rested his head on her neck. Just as Hannah was about to pull away, a soft knock sounded. "Oscar? Hannah?" Karen called.

Hannah frowned; Oscar was annoyed by the interruption. He reluctantly released Hannah. She adjusted her nightgown, took a deep breath, and opened the door. "What is it, Karen?"

Karen saw the hickey on Hannah's neck, quickly averting her gaze. "I forgot my panties. It's uncomfortable to not change after a bath. Do you have an extra pair?"

"Just a moment," Hannah fetched two new pairs.

"Thank you very much, Hannah." Karen left. Hannah looked at Oscar, his expression grim, but he remained silent.

Hannah sat on the bed, checking her phone. Oscar approached, unable to contain his desire. Hannah immediately kicked him. "Go take a bath!" she said curtly.