Chapter 526: Set the Trap (2) – Threats
The deep-seated hatred between Hannah and Charles was known throughout Kensbury City and even Northfield; their reconciliation was inconceivable. This made her presence at the wedding a surprising spectacle for the eager reporters, expecting a sensational story.
Instead of refusing interviews, Hannah faced the security-blocked reporters, unfazed by their aggressive questioning.
"Mrs. Wells, are you here for Mr. Sawyer's wedding?" one reporter asked eagerly.
"Of course," Hannah replied.
"Why did Mr. Sawyer invite you, given your conflicts?" the reporter exclaimed.
Hannah smiled. "It's business competition. Privately, our relationship isn't as hostile as people believe. Regardless of past events, our families have always maintained cordial relations. My attendance is perfectly acceptable."
"But I heard only the Phillips family received invitations," the reporter challenged.
"The Wells family's involvement in a lawsuit explains their exclusion," Hannah responded smoothly. "The Sawyers' caution is understandable, especially with Charles marrying into an aristocratic family. As for my family, we were invited, but my parents are unwell, so I'm representing them."
The reporters remained skeptical.
"Charles is more generous than you think," Hannah continued, subtly flattering him. "We grew up together. Our relationship didn't work out, but that's fate. Now we've both found love; the past is the past."
"Mr. Sawyer sounds like a gentleman," the reporter remarked spontaneously, surprised by Charles's apparent magnanimity. They were impressed by his ability to forgive and move on.
"If there are no further questions, I should congratulate the newlyweds," Hannah said, starting to leave. Then, a reporter called out: "Mrs. Wells."
Hannah stopped.
"Could you update us on your husband, Oscar Wells, who's been detained?"
Hannah, prepared for this question, answered calmly: "It's complicated. I haven't received a court date; the police are still investigating. As to my husband's guilt..." She paused, a hint of emotion in her voice.
The reporters leaned in, hoping for an inside scoop.
"I believe he's innocent," Hannah declared with conviction.
"But the evidence suggests Mr. Wells committed a crime," the reporter countered.
"No one is guilty until proven so in court," Hannah stated firmly. "Don't jump to conclusions."
The reporter, sensing the futility of further questioning on this topic, changed tack. "Anything to say about this wedding? You and Mr. Sawyer were quite a couple."
"The past is the past," Hannah reiterated. "I wish them well."
"No regrets? Mr. Sawyer seems to have a brighter future than Mr. Wells. Aren't you jealous?" The reporter's questions became sharper.
Hannah remained composed. "No regrets or envy. I'm happy for him. He took a long time to move on after our breakup; I'm relieved to see him happily married."
"No sense of loss? You said he took a long time to get over you. No female vanity now that he's with someone else?"
"No," Hannah replied bluntly. "I've moved on, and so has he. It's fair. I'm here to offer my blessing."
"Mrs. Wells…"
"Excuse me," Hannah said politely, bowing slightly. "It's getting late. Thank you."
She entered the hotel, leaving the reporters behind. The grand hotel hall, with its red carpet and floral displays, was breathtaking. Hannah walked confidently down the carpet.
Halfway, she saw Charles in a black suit, looking surprisingly refreshed and elegant. He approached and abruptly pulled her off the carpet.
"Are you insane?" he growled. He'd clearly come to stop her.
Hannah met his anger with calm indifference. "I came to offer congratulations."
"Hannah, what tricks are you playing?"
His grip tightened on her arms. "No tricks," she said, ignoring the pain. "Just to see this 'enchanting woman' you've been talking about."
"You think I'll let you in?" Charles sneered.
"It doesn't matter. I'll leave," Hannah replied nonchalantly. "But I told the press we're friends. Kicking me out now would make you look like a petty hypocrite."