Chapter 527: Set the Trap (3) Out of Control

Charles’s face darkened at Hannah’s words. He was playing host to wedding guests, and her unexpected arrival threatened him. He glared, his teeth grinding, the rage within him potent enough to strangle her. He knew exactly what she would tell the media if he barred her entry—a scandal that would ruin him, especially now that he'd married Sarah Collins. The Collins family's support was crucial, and bad press was unacceptable.

Hannah smiled serenely. "Relax! My presence will only bring you honor. The media will praise your magnanimity and predict your success."

Charles remained unconvinced.

Hannah continued, "My appearance here is purely advantageous."

"Do you think I believe you?" he challenged.

"Whether you believe me or not, you have no choice. Inviting me in shows you're broad-minded."

Charles stared coldly. He had no recourse.

Hannah produced a gift. "A wedding present. I'll do what's necessary and won't cause trouble."

"What are you up to?" Charles's temper flared.

"Isn't it obvious?" Hannah lifted her chin. "I want to see Oscar."

"Absolutely not!" Charles refused outright.

A hint of displeasure crossed Hannah's face.

"I don't care what you're doing, but you won't see Oscar," Charles said, coldly pushing her arm away.

Hannah remained silent.

"Hannah, stop trying to provoke a fight! Don't think you can drive a wedge between Sarah and me. Our devotion is unshakeable. You can't possibly create mischief between us!" Charles turned to leave, dismissing her.

Hannah rushed after him, but he shoved her away. She tried again; he raised his arm. She lost her balance, tumbling into his arms.

Her soft body pressed against him. A jolt of electricity surged through Charles; he was momentarily entranced. Hannah outwardly maintained her composure, leaning heavily on him. Her coat slipped, revealing a glimpse of fair neck, slender shoulders, and a vibrant red dress.

Charles’s gaze flickered. He was captivated, utterly surprised by his arousal. He knew he should push her away—she was dangerous—but the urge overwhelmed him.

In a split second, instinct took over. He lost control, pushing her against the wall and kissing her fiercely.

Hannah felt disgust, repulsed by his advances, although everything proceeded as planned. When he tried to deepen the kiss, she forcefully pushed him away.

His failed attempt angered him; he lunged again.

"Sarah!" Hannah shouted.

The shout extinguished his desire. He felt she was a hot potato, and he recoiled, fleeing.

Hannah calmly observed his anxiety and fear. Charles glanced back; no one was at the door. Hannah had lied. She had seen his vulnerability.

He clenched his fist. "Hannah!"

"It's for your own good," she said. "There are guests outside. If anyone sees this, you'll ruin things with Sarah."

Charles looked indignant.

"I thought you hated me, were uninterested. But I never imagined you'd be so eager. I did nothing. Are you… in love with me?" Hannah asked, a hint of amusement in her tone.

"Don't flatter yourself. It's instinct. I'd react the same way with any woman," Charles retorted.

"Really? I find any man other than Oscar utterly repulsive."

"Hannah!" Charles exploded, her words stinging with sarcasm.

He glared at her, sullen resentment etched on his face, and left without another word. He vowed revenge, a surge of excitement fueling his anger as he fled.

Hannah watched him storm away, her expression composed. She understood Charles's need to conquer resistant women to prove his prowess; his desire would only intensify with her continued resistance.

Her eyes shifted to Manuel emerging from a hidden passage. It had all been a trap—Hannah's public appearance, her acceptance of interviews, her deliberate stroll down the hotel's red carpet, all designed to lure Charles. He'd fallen for it, leading her to the secluded passage.