Chapter 683: Coming Storm (5)

Upon hearing this, both Mathew and Rowan were stunned, though they doubted Oscar's promise.

Oscar continued earnestly, "Mr. Collins, I risk my life for you, provided you rescue my wife."

Rowan appraised him. "You truly love her that much?"

"That's part of it," Oscar replied. "Melvin's actions crossed a line. I may be inferior to the Collins and Balderstons, but no one offends my principles. I gave him loyalty; he responded with threats. He must pay."

"Excellent! Now that's a man!" Rowan exclaimed, seemingly impressed, though subtly attempting to win him over.

Oscar suggested respectfully, "Mr. Collins, at the banquet, the assassin will mislead everyone into believing Melvin is responsible. Panicked, Melvin will likely flee, confirming suspicions. However, a thorough investigation will likely clear him—it's a staged plot. So…"

Both Rowan and Mathew were intrigued.

"Before the truth emerges, or Melvin can defend himself, he must be eliminated. We hunt him down after his escape, covering up the truth and ridding ourselves of our worst enemy. Without his leadership, the Balderstons are powerless."

Rowan nodded, not verbally agreeing, but turning to Mathew. Oscar's proposal had also captivated Mathew; the destruction of the Balderstons and subsequent Collins dominance thrilled him. He subtly indicated his agreement to his father. They decided to join the plot.

Rowan then said, "We're satisfied with your plan, but require time for further discussion. It's a risky undertaking."

"Yes, sir," Oscar replied humbly, feigning subservience. He knew they were trapped.

"You may leave and await our notice," Rowan said.

Oscar departed. Once gone, Rowan sneered, "Mathew, I didn't expect such a flawless plan! It might actually work! Every detail is accounted for!"

"Yes, but we must remain vigilant. He worked for Melvin. Though he's switched sides, we need to keep him under close watch," Mathew responded, equally impressed. "I suggest we adopt his plan, but not his timeline."

"What do you mean?" Rowan asked.

"We refuse his immediate proposal, claiming it's inopportune. We'll insist on delaying, choosing the optimal moment to summon him. This prevents him from conspiring with Melvin against us," Mathew explained.

"Excellent, Mathew! You exceed my expectations! Your prime will soon arrive," Rowan declared.

Mathew grinned respectfully. "Father, I won't fail you."

Oscar contemplated his return journey. He knew the Collins wouldn't blindly agree. Rowan, being older, might overlook details, but Mathew, his ever-present son, was as cunning and perhaps even more so than his father. Yet, the plan was too compelling to ignore. They would likely choose another day to act, Oscar surmised. He called Manuel.

"Manuel, are you there?"

"Hey, Oscar," Manuel replied, sensing the seriousness in Oscar's voice.

"Prepare for a trip to the capital. Invent a plausible reason—a business trip, for instance."

"Got it."

"Get ready. I'll tell you when."

"OK."

Just before hanging up, Manuel asked, "Oscar, what's going on? Is it serious?"

"Yes."

Manuel understood. He immediately called Melvin.

"Mr. Balderston, I want to see Hannah."

"Oscar, don't push your luck."

"I have a plan against the Collins, but I need to ensure Hannah's safety first."

"Is that a threat?"

"I simply want to see my wife," Oscar insisted. "I can't get her out while you're there, or I wouldn't have let you take her."

"Don't cross me," Melvin warned, then hung up.

Oscar believed Melvin would yield. Destroying the Collins was Melvin's priority; Oscar's proposal was too tempting.

Minutes later, Melvin texted, "Meet at Balderston Manor in half an hour. Ensure you're not followed."