Chapter 681: Coming Storm (3)

Oscar entered the black limousine Rowan had designated for his transport. Rowan's continued vigilance was evident; a shrewd politician like Rowan would never fully trust anyone.

The limousine soon arrived at the Collins manor, situated in the northern part of the capital, a stark contrast to the Balderston manor in the south. Both opulent, yet understated, estates were worth hundreds of millions and heavily guarded. Trespassing was futile.

Oscar exited the limousine and followed a guard to a courtyard, eventually reaching a study where Rowan, Sarah Collins (his apparent favorite), and Mathew Collins (Rowan's only son and heir) were gathered. Rowan’s younger daughter, still in school, was absent, a fact Oscar had noted during his month of service.

"What's your report, so late?" Rowan inquired, continuing to sip his tea.

Oscar hesitated. Rowan frowned. "Oscar, don't waste my time. I have a national conference tomorrow."

Oscar nodded. "Mr. Collins, I have a confession."

"What is it?" Rowan asked, feigning nonchalance, yet remaining alert. He'd anticipated something significant and had increased security around the study, also summoning Sarah and Mathew for counsel—all under the guise of casualness. Oscar, however, appeared oblivious.

"I've partnered with Melvin Balderston."

Rowan and Sarah reacted instantly.

"What do you mean? Were you his spy?" Sarah demanded.

"I was," Oscar admitted.

Sarah gasped. "How dare you!"

"But Mr. Collins can attest to my loyalty."

"Loyal while working for Melvin? Who do you think you are?"

"If I weren't loyal, I wouldn't have confessed. Melvin predicted you'd approach me, so before your visit, he offered me a deal: join the Collins and act as his informant."

Rowan's face darkened at Melvin's cunning.

"But I've changed my mind," Oscar declared.

"Do you think you can choose? Aren't you afraid of Melvin's retaliation?" Rowan asked, noticing the potential flaw.

"He will retaliate, but your retaliation is inevitable if I betray you. I had to choose a side."

"And you chose us? Why?" Rowan sneered.

"Because Melvin deserves it!" Oscar retorted. The Collins awaited his explanation. "He took Hannah." Oscar felt compelled to reveal part of the truth. "I announced Hannah's pregnancy to the public, halting her social engagements and using the pregnancy to mask her kidnapping by Melvin."

Rowan was impressed by Oscar's strategy. "A nice try."

"I did that to avoid suspicion, but I won't stand idly by."

Rowan frowned. "I trusted Melvin. I believed we were equals. But he resorts to dirty tricks, even trying to control me! I want a better future." Oscar explained earnestly. "I'm confessing to prove my loyalty."

Rowan echoed, "The Balderstons are insidious! To threaten you with your wife... I'd never stoop to such tactics."

"I was naive, and I regret my choice," Oscar admitted, grinding his teeth.

"What will you do? Melvin has your wife," Rowan said, feigning concern.

"I need your help to rescue her," Oscar pleaded.

"It's difficult. We maintain a peaceful facade with the Balderstons, but danger looms. I can't simply snatch her back."

"I understand," Oscar nodded.

"But I'll prioritize her safety. Stay loyal, and I won't fail you," Rowan promised.

"If Hannah is rescued, I'll repay you with my life," Oscar pledged.

"Mark your words," Rowan said gravely. "It's late. You may leave."

"Yes, Mr. Collins," Oscar bowed, aware that Rowan would need time to discuss this with Mathew and Sarah, possibly even considering assassinating him.

After Oscar left, Rowan turned to Mathew. "Your opinion?"

Mathew, who'd observed Oscar intently, said, "We need to verify his story."