Chapter 691: Apologize

After lunch, Melvin invited Cian and Hannah to the tea house. They sipped tea and engaged in casual conversation, with Hannah interjecting occasionally. The atmosphere was relaxed and unremarkable.

Melvin’s phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID and excused himself, assuring the others to make themselves comfortable.

Hannah subtly blinked. She understood; Melvin had deliberately left them alone so she could negotiate the business deal he couldn't directly pursue. He was indeed shrewd.

With Melvin gone, Hannah and Cian were alone in the tea house, along with Jimmy, though their conversation remained silent; a camera's presence was understood by all.

Hannah stood abruptly, catching Cian's attention.

"Mr. Harry," she began, "would you mind taking a walk with me? My back aches since becoming pregnant, and the doctor recommended exercise for the baby's benefit."

"My honor," Cian replied.

Hannah smiled, leading the way into Balderston Manor's expansive garden. Cameras were present, but their distance allowed for private conversation if they spoke softly. Meanwhile, Melvin watched from a small attic, a glass of wine in hand.

"What are you doing here?" Cian whispered.

"Oscar sent me."

Cian was visibly shocked. Hannah surmised Oscar had withheld significant information.

"How did you meet Melvin?" she asked Cian.

"I needed social connections," he explained. "My wealth is conspicuous; isolation would draw unwanted attention. I make occasional appearances and Melvin targeted me. He sought to cultivate relationships with wealthy families but cautiously, wary of the prominent Kensbury families, particularly the Collins family under scrutiny. He coveted my assets, but Oscar prefers I maintain distance."

"I see," Hannah murmured, grasping the situation. "Do you know what Melvin wants?"

"What he wants...?" Cian's tone implied a negative expectation.

"He wants to buy your island for twenty million."

"Twenty million? An audacious offer!" Cian scoffed.

"He'll guarantee my safety if I facilitate the deal," Hannah revealed. "If Oscar can't protect me, Melvin's life would be my safeguard."

Cian's expression darkened.

"Don't worry," Hannah reassured him. "I understand your mission, and I don't want you to bear the blame."

"Sorry," Cian apologized.

Hannah was surprised by his apology.

"I didn't expect Oscar to actually send you."

"I said I understand."

"But do you truly accept it?"

Hannah hesitated. "I don't want you to hate Oscar. He had no other choice."

"Yes," Hannah replied, her voice flat. She understood, but the resentment would fuel her resolve.

"Don't worry. We'll manage. The challenge is selling the island without arousing Melvin's suspicion."

Cian nodded; his rationality was evident. Hannah felt fortunate their encounter happened with Cian; any other individual might have jeopardized the deal. They walked in silence for a while.

"Let's return; Melvin will become suspicious," Hannah suggested.

"Okay."

They returned to the tea house, where Melvin awaited.

"You were gone when I returned. Where were you?" Melvin inquired casually.

"I showed Mr. Harry the garden," Hannah replied.

"Did you enjoy it, Harry?" Melvin asked.

"Immensely!" Cian enthused. "Balderston Manor's mountainside location and stunning views are breathtaking. A true paradise!"

"I believe your Island Manor surpasses it," Melvin countered directly.

"Melvin, we're friends," Cian protested. "How can you take it from me? I invested significant time and effort. Don't make this difficult."

Melvin blinked, his gaze shifting to Hannah.

"Failed," Hannah nodded grimly.

Melvin maintained composure, his reaction suggesting he anticipated this outcome.

"It was a joke, but she took it seriously," Melvin remarked smoothly. "Come, the tea's getting cold."

Cian complied. Hannah feigned a yawn. "Excuse me. I need a nap. Enjoy your tea."

Melvin nodded. Hannah expected a private conversation, and ten minutes later, he arrived at her home.

Hannah, in a nightdress with flowing hair, reclined on the couch, appearing relaxed. Yet, Melvin was captivated, momentarily mesmerized. In that instant, she seemed a captivating temptress.

"Mr. Balderston?" Hannah called.

Melvin, flustered, stammered, "So, you gave up so easily?"

"Mr. Harry thought I was joking," Hannah retorted sarcastically. "I feel foolish."

"Are you angry?" Melvin asked, surprised by his own concern.

"How dare I?" Hannah replied coldly. "My failure to secure the deal means I accept all consequences, including the injustice."

Melvin was speechless. She anticipated mockery, but they fell into a heavy silence.

"Rest," he finally said, turning to leave.

"Mr. Balderston," Hannah stopped him.

Melvin looked back.

"Keep Mr. Harry for dinner. I'll find a solution."

Melvin frowned slightly, surprised by her persistent resolve despite his apparent slight.

"Okay," he conceded indifferently. "I'll give you another chance."