Chapter 677: Arrival in the Capital
After Hannah boarded the helicopter, Jimmy followed. Melvin smiled at her; she ignored him, then glanced at Oscar, who stood motionless, his gaze fixed on her. She quickly looked away, stifling a wave of sadness. Separation from him was her greatest fear. She preferred to see indifference on his face; it would fuel her resolve to remain strong in the coming days.
As the helicopter blades whirred to life, a strong wind ruffled Oscar's hair and wrinkled his shirt. He remained motionless, watching his beloved wife ascend, until she vanished from sight. His clenched fists ached, his eyes burning with rage. He fought to control his surging anger, dreading her despair at their separation.
The helicopter climbed higher. Hannah looked down, seeing him standing alone, desolate. "Did you regret it?" Melvin asked, noticing her expression. She hesitated. Oscar's figure shrank, then disappeared.
"No. I just want to make sure I won't forget how impassive he looks right now."
"I doubt that," Melvin replied, unconvinced. Hannah didn't argue; she avoided conversation with this unfamiliar man, maintaining her usual caution with strangers. She was, after all, under his control. Dying needlessly was unacceptable; survival was her unwavering priority.
"I heard you're pregnant," Melvin said, breaking the silence. Hannah acknowledged his statement with a glance.
"I didn't hear it from Oscar. I bet you know how well-informed I am," Melvin said smoothly, not boasting, but stating a fact—a warning.
"I've been pregnant for three months."
"I wouldn't know, judging by your figure."
"Uh-huh."
"Do you hate him?" Hannah frowned.
"I mean, do you hate Oscar? He leaves you alone while you're pregnant," Melvin continued casually.
"Don't you think I should?"
Melvin smiled enigmatically. "Hannah, you're brilliant."
"So you mean I should endure it."
"Because you have no other choice."
Hannah smiled; it was true. She had no option but to comply.
"You know, I like brilliant ladies," Melvin said.
Hannah was surprised.
"Don't mistake me. I appreciate your brilliance. I'm not despicable enough to deprive someone of their loved one, especially now you're pregnant." He continued, "By 'appreciate,' I mean I don't want to waste time on you. You know what I mean."
He was again warning her against reckless actions. Hannah understood, yet remained confused. "According to Oscar, you need me as a hostage because you don't trust him. But I'm curious. Now that you've taken me, what if the Collins find out? Wouldn't that compromise Oscar's value in their eyes?"
"Who do you think will be most affected?" Melvin asked.
Hannah paused, nearing the answer. Melvin, noticing this, added, "Oscar is the answer. Once the Collins know I've taken you, they'll distrust him, putting him in danger."
"So you leave him to handle it alone?"
Melvin nodded. Hannah gritted her teeth, recognizing his cunning. He clearly weighed the pros and cons, easily manipulating the situation.
Hannah remained silent, leaning back and closing her eyes. Melvin didn't press her. As she closed her eyes, he finished, "Hannah, the nature of politicians is far darker and more evil than you imagine. Neither Oscar nor I are exceptions."
"Yeah, I know," she replied, eyes closed.
Watching her, he added, "Rest assured. You'll be safe as long as he doesn't betray me. I'm not a maniac who enjoys killing innocents."
Hannah made no response. Silence descended.
Over three hours later, they reached the capital and landed at a magnificent downtown manor. Hannah followed Melvin, Jimmy alertly by her side. Melvin led her to a separate courtyard house.
"This is your temporary residence. I'm across from you."
Hannah surveyed her surroundings. Though tranquil and comfortable, she sensed Melvin's ambition beneath the surface.
"You'll have servants. Ask for anything you need. I'll try to satisfy you. But remember, don't try to run away. That's my only request," Melvin said.
"I know what's wise," Hannah replied.
"I bet you do. Rest and recover from the journey."
Hannah nodded. Melvin departed with his men, leaving Hannah, Jimmy, and a middle-aged maidservant. The servant was respectful.
"Jimmy, I need sleep. You should rest too," Hannah said.
Jimmy nodded. She entered her bedroom, the air fragrant with sandalwood. The décor was elegant and unique. She lay on the comfortable queen-sized bed, somehow believing this would be a suitable place until her delivery.