Chapter 500: Physical Report

Hannah entered the living room to find Oscar tending to Karen's wound, a minor injury that didn't require a doctor. Seeing Hannah, Oscar said, "We have that doctor's appointment for my physical. Time to go."

Hannah understood; they needed to remove Karen before further incidents. She told her family, "Grandma, Dad, Mom, Oscar and I have to leave. The doctor will come this afternoon." Michelle nodded. They knew Karen was not someone to be trifled with. Lorie, changed since Roger's accident and now possessing a clearer sense of right and wrong, bid them farewell, "Take care. Come back when you can."

Hannah reassured Karen about her scalded hand, advising her to seek medical attention if it worsened. Karen thanked her politely. After they left, Karen, in a timid voice, apologized to Hannah for the earlier events. Hannah readily forgave her.

Karen then expressed gratitude for Hannah's actions regarding Mary, revealing her years of resentment toward her cousin's bullying. Hannah, delighted by this, recounted her own grievances with her grandmother. However, Karen's gratitude felt forced, as her actions had been self-serving and not intended to please Hannah. She feigned a smile, worried Hannah would be embarrassed to be seen with her.

Hannah, oblivious to Karen's true feelings, suggested they devise a plan to annoy her grandmother. This seemingly innocuous suggestion felt mocking to Karen, who, feeling increasingly uncomfortable, complained of carsickness to end the conversation. Jimmy reassured her that they were almost home.

Once inside, Karen retreated to her room, claiming illness. Oscar, seemingly resigned to his sister's temperament, didn't press her. He and Hannah went to the couch. With Max tending the garden, they were alone.

"You're so nice to your sister," Hannah complained.

"Jealous?" Oscar asked, raising an eyebrow.

"No! I'm worried she'll cause more trouble," Hannah insisted.

"You're jealous," Oscar countered.

Before Hannah could reply, Oscar kissed her. Their embrace led them onto the couch, their intimacy interrupted by Max's embarrassed announcement that the doctor had arrived with the report.

The doctor, equally flustered, awkwardly explained Oscar's results before launching into an unsolicited commentary on the benefits of intimacy for a couple's relationship. Hannah, mortified, blushed deeply. After a significant pause, the doctor finally declared Oscar healthy.

Oscar, despite his earlier nervousness, responded nonchalantly. The doctor then offered advice regarding their difficulty conceiving, suggesting a relaxing vacation to alleviate stress.

He concluded with a cheerful, "Relax, and best wishes for a healthy baby!"