Martina's Revenge (2)

Manuel waited with Hannah outside the operating room; she had been anxiously awaiting news all day. The operation concluded three hours later. The doctor emerged, his eyes weary. Hannah, terrified of hearing bad news about Oscar, stared silently at the doctor while Manuel, Max, and Jimmy approached him.

"The operation was successful," the doctor stated gravely. "The next step is to carefully monitor his recovery. Gastric disease treatment relies partly on medication, but primarily on diligent aftercare."

"I understand. Thank you, Doctor," Hannah replied.

Relieved, Hannah finally breathed easily. Seeing Oscar being wheeled out, she rushed to his side, anxiously asking, "How do you feel?" He looked pale and weak.

"Very good," Oscar weakly replied.

Hannah felt a mixture of happiness and unease. She often found herself unsure whether to laugh or cry because of Oscar.

Oscar was then transferred to the senior ward. The doctor warned that Oscar could only have nutrient solution for now, progressing to a liquid diet after a week. A six-week hospital stay was also mandated. Hannah's plan to fatten him up was thwarted; he might even continue losing weight.

They didn't leave the hospital until nightfall. Oscar, finally free from anesthesia, slept soundly, even snoring from exhaustion. Hannah gazed silently at him, studying his features—eyebrows, eyes, nose, and lips. He was the man she cherished.

"Hannah," Manuel said softly.

Tearing her gaze away, Hannah replied, "Yes?"

"Eat something," Manuel offered, producing the dinner Max had prepared after the operation. Only then did Hannah realize she hadn't eaten all day, her focus entirely on Oscar.

"We should learn from my cousin's gastric issues," Manuel joked, "Come and eat."

Hannah nodded and sat down. Manuel invited Max and Jimmy to join them, suggesting they relax. They readily accepted; they all held Manuel in high regard, apart from Oscar.

Hannah found the meal delicious, unsure if it was her hunger or something more. Her enjoyment soured, however, realizing Oscar wouldn't be able to eat a proper meal for at least three months.

Late into the night, Hannah suggested, "Max and Manuel, go home. Jimmy and I will be fine." The hospital bed wouldn't be as comfortable as their own.

Manuel, knowing he could do little more than disturb their rest, agreed. "I understand. I'll take Max home. You should rest as well."

As they were leaving, Max cautioned, "No sex for now, remember what the doctor said."

Hannah's face flushed. She hadn't heard that specific instruction, and of course, wouldn't have considered intimacy with a post-operative patient. Max's words mortified her.

"Not you, Ma'am," Max quickly clarified, "I'm worried Oscar might prioritize sex over his health."

The realization that Oscar had endured significant pain while they were intimate was deeply embarrassing. The thought of him prioritizing sex over health was shocking.

Hannah nodded, equally embarrassed. Max left with Manuel.

It was late, but not too late. Traffic was sparse. In the car, Max asked, "Mr. Johnson, what do you think of Ma'am?"

Manuel, sensing something, replied, "Don't worry. The woman Oscar chose must be good."

Max clarified, "I'm not doubting her, I just worry she might not fully accept Master Oscar…"

"She will," Manuel stated firmly. "Because she's Hannah."

Max nodded in agreement. Manuel added, "Please look after Oscar. Another war is brewing."

"I will," Max solemnly replied. The long-anticipated conflict had finally arrived.

Manuel drove home after dropping Max off. His phone had been ringing incessantly, but he ignored it. He wouldn't give anyone an opportunity if it could be avoided. He was about to switch it off when Susan's name appeared. He hesitated. Susan rarely called, and his dislike for him was well known. The only reason she'd call would be if she was in trouble.

His breath hitched. He answered, striving for calmness. "Susan."

"I thought you wouldn't answer. Finally, you answered hers!" Martina's sarcastic voice cut through.

Manuel's fears were realized. "What do you want?"

"What do I want?" Martina sneered. "I have nothing. My relatives, my brother, my mother—all in prison. The man I loved betrayed me, ruining my family and life. So tell me, Manuel, what should I want?"

"I made it clear; leave Kensbury City and Northfield before the police or the Collins family find you," Manuel said, trying to maintain composure.