Chapter 695 Fetal Movement

Hannah offered a faint smile. "I think I should offer my congratulations."

Melvin had profited immensely, acquiring a twenty-billion-dollar island for a mere twenty million. "You really stop at nothing," he commented.

"Life matters," Hannah replied seriously. "And I'm expecting. I can't afford to relax my vigilance."

"And if I hadn't kicked that door down, you would have simply awaited your doom?" Melvin asked.

Hannah fell silent.

"I now suspect your affection for Oscar," Melvin scoffed.

"I love him deeply," Hannah said. "But faced with life or death, one must make the best decision. It's every man for himself."

Melvin said nothing more, turning to leave.

"Mr. Balderston," Hannah began suddenly, "whatever Oscar does, I won't die if you live. Is that right?"

Melvin smiled. "I may not be a good man, but I keep my word."

"Thank you, sir."

"But do you believe I won't die?" Melvin asked, his head turning. He hadn't a foolproof plan; he'd prepared for the worst.

Hannah didn't answer directly. "Since you can't be certain, why did you agree with Oscar?"

Melvin thought her astute; she’d perceived his inner thoughts from his words alone.

"Because of his words," he explained seriously. "I haven't had the chance, nor the courage, to vanquish the Collins family. Oscar's plan gives me that chance. If I miss it, I may not find another for years, even decades. I've waited long enough."

Hannah saw a sorrow hidden beneath his strong exterior for the first time. No one is born a king; only through trials and tribulations does one become so.

"I hope you won't die," she said. She didn't know who would win, but she knew she didn't want Melvin to die. Their fates were intertwined.

Melvin smiled, a hint of something else in his expression. "Thank you."

He was slightly taken aback by her words. "I don't know what Harry would have done if you hadn't intervened. You protected me."

"I pursued my own ends," Hannah replied. "Besides, I promised Oscar I'd take care of you and the baby. It's nothing."

Hannah smiled, remaining silent. Sometimes, it was best to let the meaning hang in the air.

A fortnight later, Hannah awoke, retching as she brushed her teeth. An upset stomach followed, sending her sprawling beside the toilet. Then, a gentle fluttering in her belly surprised her. It was slight but undeniable. She suspected what it was.

She'd been undergoing antenatal classes, filling her boredom in Melvin's house. She recognized the feeling as fetal movement.

"Why am I feeling this at four months? Isn't it usually six?" she wondered, placing a hand on her belly, stroking it tenderly. She studied her reflection, noting the slight swell of her abdomen. Her loose clothing usually concealed it, unless deliberately opened. Oscar had constantly complained about her lack of a baby bump, now easily visible in his absence.

Another half-month passed. The expected battle hadn't begun. Hannah felt she needn't worry; she played no leading role.

Another fluttering, more distinct this time, confirmed it: fetal movement. Tears welled in her eyes. Pregnancy had made her more emotionally fragile, though she wasn't naturally sentimental. She smiled through her tears, congratulating herself and her growing child, a source of hope in this desperate situation.

She composed herself and went to breakfast. She'd been dining with Melvin for the past two weeks whenever he was home. Since she’d moved into Balderston Manor, he'd received no other visitors. She paid him little mind, unconcerned with his daily activities. They ate breakfast in quiet companionship.

"All things considered," Melvin began, "the battle will begin soon."

Hannah paused, knife and fork suspended. She was startled but maintained her composure.

Melvin put down his phone, his gaze on Hannah. "The Collins family can't tolerate us any longer."

"I believe you'll win," Hannah said, meeting his eyes.

"God knows," he replied lightly.

She said nothing more, knowing he was well-prepared.

Melvin chuckled knowingly. "Take a few more bites. It might be our last meal."

Hannah's face shifted; she put down her utensils. "I don't want to eat anymore."

"Are you full?" he asked.

"Yes," she replied, rising.

Melvin observed her figure. "Your belly's bigger."

Hannah paused, surprised; her clothes were loose. Melvin, too, was surprised to note the subtle change.