Hannah’s Departure

Hannah remained in the hospital for a week, visited regularly by Manuel and Theodore. Manuel, initially bandaged like a mummy, felt better after two days, though the bandages remained. Oscar, however, hadn't appeared since his last visit. Fortunately, Hannah was recovering; the baby's survival was deemed a miracle by the physicians, a blessing Hannah deeply appreciated.

"Theodore," Hannah called to the man seated on the sofa.

Theodore turned, asking, "Do you want water?" He had become a more caring man over the past week.

"No," Hannah replied. "I want to go back to Kensbury. Could you ask the doctor?"

Theodore hesitated. "You're leaving now? Oscar hasn't even…" He was preoccupied, Oscar having failed to visit despite Theodore's repeated phone calls regarding Hannah's situation. He remained unsure of the reason for Oscar's absence.

Theodore avoided completing his thought, steering clear of sensitive topics.

"If Oscar could come, he would have. He's very busy. I don't want to disturb him," Hannah explained.

Theodore, unsure what to say, stood and declared, "I'll ask the doctor about your condition."

"Thank you."

Theodore left the ward.

Alone and bored, Hannah lay in bed. The doctor had restricted her movement, resulting in extended periods of sleep and a feeling of weakness. Unfamiliar with the capital, she felt uneasy and longed for home. She waited patiently.

When Theodore returned, Manuel followed.

"The doctor suggests staying a little longer," Theodore reported, "explaining that the infant's recovery is fragile, and further disruption could be risky."

Hannah pursed her lips. "If we're careful, may we go?"

"Must you?" Theodore asked, concerned.

Hannah nodded vigorously. He understood; she was in an unfamiliar place while her husband was preoccupied with work, and her desire to return home was understandable.

"I'll see what I can do," he said, "to ensure your most comfortable return."

"Thank you." Hannah smiled brightly, a radiant smile Theodore hadn't seen in a long time. He quickly left.

Manuel approached. "I heard Oscar hasn't been here."

"I'm not leaving because of him," Hannah clarified. "I simply find the capital unsettling and want to go home."

Manuel nodded. "Do you feel better now?"

Manuel looked considerably improved. "Much better. If you want to go, I'll go with you."

Hannah paused. "Let Theodore accompany me. You stay here to recuperate."

"I've recovered," Manuel added. "Staying here offers no benefit."

Hannah didn't object; Manuel was sensible and wouldn't act rashly.

Theodore returned shortly. "We can go back."

Hannah sighed with relief, eager to return home for her and the baby's well-being.

"The attending doctor here will return with you. You'll still need to visit the hospital back home; the doctor said you need at least another half-month of bed rest, depending on your health."

"Alright."

"The afternoon private jet is ready."

"Thank you."

"Hannah," Theodore said gravely.

"Yes?"

"I called Oscar. I told him you're leaving, but he can't make it today… to see you off…" Theodore struggled to phrase it delicately.

Hannah smiled. "It's okay. He's busy with his work."

Theodore pursed his lips, glancing at Manuel, who remained speechless.

A silence fell over the ward.

Hannah departed that afternoon in a wheelchair, accompanied by Theodore, Manuel, numerous bodyguards, and hospital staff – a display that might suggest someone of great importance. And in a way, she was.

Oscar's actions had propelled him to the highest position in Northfield, a fact he had made public. As his wife, Hannah had inevitably risen in status.

The car arrived at the capital's private airport. Hannah transferred to the wheelchair and boarded the jet, Theodore pushing her.

"Theodore," Manuel called.

Theodore turned to see Oscar's car speeding towards them. He thought, He finally has a conscience.

Oscar exited his car, rushing towards them. Hannah noticed his haste.

Hannah pursed her lips. They should have been close, yet she felt an inexplicable strangeness, a chilling distance.

"Hannah," Oscar said.

Hannah responded.

Manuel discreetly pulled Theodore away, creating privacy for the couple.

"I'm sorry, I…" Oscar began, unable to articulate his apology.

Hannah shook her head. "Fine. I know you're busy."

Oscar's throat tightened. Hannah's composure was sometimes painful.

"The baby…" he began.

"Very good," Hannah replied, smiling. "She's very strong."

No. You were strong, Oscar thought, but didn't say.

He knelt, taking her hands. They felt each other's warmth. Hannah stared at him, emotions swirling, held in check by both of them.

"Cian's death has nothing to do with you," Oscar said abruptly.

Hannah's eyes widened in surprise.

"Don't blame yourself."

Hannah remained silent.

Oscar gently kissed her cheek. "Go back and take care of yourself."

"You?" Hannah asked.

Oscar gazed into the distance.

"Will you come back?" she asked.