Chapter 708: The Feud (13) Preparation

Listening to Oscar's report, Melvin lowered his fork but remained seated. His expression grew serious. "Tell me about your plan," he said.

"To convince them of your death, we need some of your men to surrender, others to openly oppose the Collins family. Some sacrifices will be necessary; they won't believe it unless there are casualties."

Melvin frowned. "Then?"

"On the day of the memorial, you appear, proving you're alive. At least temporarily, the family won't question my loyalty or diminish my power. That day, I'll divert their troops, allowing you to strike when Rowan is vulnerable."

"How do I explain killing him?" Melvin asked irritably. High-status individuals are deeply invested in their reputations. Though vicious and cunning, Melvin still considered himself a righteous man.

"Rowan attempted to assassinate you; it's self-defense. Easy to explain," Oscar said lightly. "Claim he framed you to seize Northfield, leaving you no choice but to fight back. Regardless of the outcome, history will be rewritten. Victory makes you a hero; defeat paints the Collins family as heroes. You understand this better than I do."

Melvin sneered. "Oscar, you're thoughtful."

"I want my wife and child safe."

"Your wife and child?" Melvin smiled, staring unabashedly at Hannah.

Hannah felt uncomfortable under his gaze and looked up. Her fair cheeks and clear eyes struck him; for a moment, he felt she deserved better than this. He averted his gaze, masking his emotions with indifference. "She's safe as long as you don't betray me."

"You can rest assured."

"Keep me informed." With that, Melvin hung up.

Oscar stared at the phone, his face clouded. He had to act quickly, but the outcome remained uncertain.

Melvin abandoned his meal, watching Hannah eat slowly but heartily.

"Hannah, Oscar just called," Melvin said pointedly.

"I know."

"And you still have an appetite?"

"The food is excellent."

Melvin sneered. Her indifference irritated him. It seemed nothing, not even her captivity, could stir her emotions.

"By the way," she said, "I'm pregnant. Pregnant women eat more."

"Harry, return to your room," Melvin coldly ordered Cian.

Cian's face contorted with anger. "This is my home!" he shouted. Who the hell are you to tell me?! he thought.

"It's my home now," Melvin retorted. "Don't forget, you sold it to me."

"Asshole!" Cian cursed.

Melvin shrugged. He had no reason to kill Cian now, but owning Northfield might change that; no one would resist its wealth. For now, however, he saw no justification for killing him.

"I didn't want to force you," Melvin said, glancing at Cian. The soldiers stood menacingly close. Cian knew resistance was futile; he threw down his cutlery and left.

Hannah watched Cian's angry departure, then noticed Melvin's prolonged gaze. She frowned. Lately, it felt like he was scrutinizing her. Is he trying to read something into me? she wondered.

"You like Harry?" Melvin sneered.

"We're in this together; I don't actively reject him."

"I thought you fancied his looks; a new sweetheart?"

Hannah smiled disapprovingly. "Oscar is more handsome."

Melvin raised an eyebrow. "You still have feelings for him?"

"I'm being objective."

"True," Melvin said, taking a drink. "Oscar is handsome, capable, and adept at navigating both families, even controlling them. Their fate rests on him. It's understandable women would be drawn to him."

Hannah couldn't decipher his meaning. She felt he should be focusing on their immediate predicament. She remained silent.

"Hannah, don't you find Oscar… frightening?"

"What are you saying?" Hannah met his gaze directly.

"Have you considered… giving up this child?"

Hannah's composure wavered. Her nonchalance vanished.

Melvin pressed on. "A man like him – the Collinses and Balderstons won't let him live. You're intelligent; you know this! He'll be killed. Wouldn't it be better to avoid the heartbreak of bearing his child? Terminate it."

"It's my decision," Hannah said coldly. "My relationship with Oscar is my business. Even if he dies, my choice is mine. Respect that."

"A reminder. It's your decision," Melvin said indifferently, rising to leave. "Enjoy your meal, Hannah."

Hannah watched him go, her lips compressed. To say she wasn't panicked would be a lie. If Oscar lost, they all died. Right now, she wasn't sure if she felt sorrow or resentment for him. All she could do was hope for his success.