Chapter 508: Conspiracy (1) Something's About to Come
Though Oscar had social engagements, Hannah left the office promptly at 5:30 PM. All projects were progressing smoothly; her only concern was the acquisition of the Sawyer Group. Since her return, she'd focused on her revenge. This time, she vowed to destroy the Sawyers.
On her drive home, she noticed Mary entering a luxurious limousine a few miles from the Cooper Group. Mary's known wealth couldn't afford such a vehicle, and her demeanor as a passenger suggested she didn't own it. Hannah watched the limousine depart, a sense of unease settling over her.
Instinctively, she called Theodore. He complained about her not calling Oscar, who had returned. Hannah countered that he was too busy, a statement Theodore initially disputed before admitting he wasn't busy. Hannah then instructed him to find the owner of limousine ACV6688. Theodore agreed, though reluctantly.
Afterward, Theodore contacted Oscar, relaying Hannah's request. Oscar authorized the investigation. Theodore also mentioned preparations for Oscar's evening engagements. He casually asked Oscar about his suspicion of a conspiracy, to which Oscar replied, "I guess so." Theodore found Oscar's uncertainty unusual but didn't press further.
Inside the limousine, Mary sat beside Martina, who was speaking urgently on the phone. She assured the caller, Charles, that she’d avoided Hannah's notice, having Mary walk away from the building before entering the vehicle. Charles warned her of Hannah’s alertness. Martina, however, seemed impatient and unconcerned. She believed she could outmaneuver Hannah.
Turning to Mary, who appeared nervous, Martina outlined their plan: Mary would be made up to resemble Hannah; after drugging Oscar at his social event, she would seduce him at a hotel. Mary nodded, but her apprehension was evident. Martina had earlier confirmed Mary’s desire to replace Hannah; Mary, though disadvantaged, retained significant ambition. Martina believed the mutual hatred of Hannah cemented their alliance.
Hannah waited for Oscar at home. By midnight, he hadn't returned, despite promising an early arrival. She resisted calling, aware it would be inappropriate. Around 1 AM, Theodore called, informing her that Oscar was drunk and needed assistance.
Hannah rushed downstairs to find Theodore supporting a heavily intoxicated Oscar. She took him upstairs, struggling under his weight. After thanking Theodore, who made a suggestive remark about "taking care" of Oscar, she carried her husband to bed. Theodore’s seemingly innocent comment revealed a deeper understanding of the situation.
Unaware of the planned encounter with Mary, Oscar was saved only by Theodore's intervention. Theodore immediately called to check on Mary’s whereabouts, only to learn she was missing. He was furious, suspecting Charles's incompetence but also recognizing a more powerful hand at play. A grim premonition settled over him.