Chapter 649: Cian Comes to the Party

Susan was conflicted, unsure how to react. She saw Henry carefully reaching for her hand. He was always humble, deferential, yearning for her love and trust. This time, she let him take her hand.

"I'm relieved to be rid of that 20% company stake," he said. "It burdened me, not just because I couldn't have you, but because I felt unqualified to manage it. Now it's gone, I won't be so stressed around you. Susan..."

He spoke her name softly, and she met his gaze. "Let's start over, be good to each other, okay?"

Susan found it hard to agree. Henry fought back his anger. Before, she would have rushed into his arms, but her trust had diminished. He masked his frustration, gently saying, "It's okay. I understand. Take your time."

She didn't want his deference; it only made her uncomfortable.

"Alright," Henry said.

In Susan's eyes, he was saving face, always cautious to preserve their relationship. "No worries. Just be my happy princess. I just want to see that happy smile on your pretty face," he said, pulling her into his embrace.

Susan leaned against him. It was overwhelming, yet she felt she had no choice but to accept it.

The villa was jubilantly decorated with colored lanterns and flowers, perhaps a little overdone.

Oscar arrived home on time, noticing the elaborate decorations. He didn't consider a large celebration necessary, but Hannah's thoughtful touches were expected. He believed life should have ceremony.

He entered the drawing-room, ready to hug Hannah, then stopped abruptly, staring at the young man before him. For a moment, he couldn't believe it was Cian, his younger brother.

Cian, uncomfortable under his stare, asked, "Did I disturb you?"

Oscar blinked, turning to Hannah.

"I told Cian to come," she said.

"I'm glad you remembered me," Cian smiled. "I thought you'd forgotten me after you left."

Oscar was speechless; Hannah couldn't decipher his expression. She wasn't sure if he wanted Cian there, if his appearance was a welcome surprise. But Cian was one of Oscar's few family members. She sensed his deep longing for family love, even though he rarely spoke of it, his strong attachment to his parents and brother evident.

"Oh, look who's here! Cian!" Theodore entered, far calmer than Oscar.

"Long time, Theo," Cian greeted him politely.

"I can't believe you left that stupid island. How did you get here?" Theodore asked casually, his voice easing the tension.

Hannah seized the moment, taking Oscar's hand and acting playfully. He sighed.

"Hannah invited me," Cian replied. "It's very kind of you, Hannah. My brother disappeared, but you still remember me."

Hannah knew the risk of bringing Cian from the island. Ten years of experience had taught her that his identity remained undiscovered; the aristocratic families were unaware Oscar had a sibling. Therefore, no one would pay him any attention if she kept it discreet.

"Cian! Is that you?" Manuel entered, shocked.

"Yeah, Manuel," Cian replied with a smile.

Cian was more outgoing than Oscar; he was kind, while Oscar's unapproachability intimidated Theodore and Manuel.

"What a nice surprise!" Manuel exclaimed, seemingly expecting him. Hannah had contacted him, suggesting Cian visit Kensbury City occasionally instead of remaining isolated. Despite limited time together, Cian and Oscar loved and admired each other, a closeness evident despite unspoken words. Manuel believed Oscar would be happy to have Cian at his birthday party.

"Yep," Cian grinned. "I couldn't refuse Hannah's invitation."

Hannah thought Cian clever, shifting the blame to her for his presence, sensing Oscar's slight displeasure. She remembered his elation at her invitation.

"Now you know how tricky he is," Oscar whispered, gloating.

Hannah pouted.

"Now that everyone's here, let's eat!" Max announced respectfully.

Hannah nodded. They moved to the garden dining area, delicately decorated with lanterns, ribbons, balloons, and flowers—a warm, romantic setting. Hannah had spared no effort in creating a fabulous party for Oscar.