Chapter 764: Hannah’s Return to Cooper Group

Manuel couldn't answer his own question: how long could one wait for the other? A year was acceptable, but ten? He knew Hannah, with her strength and resilience, could manage even alone, if Oscar released her. The pain Oscar inflicted might fade within a year or two, but it wouldn't last a decade. And if she let go of her love, she wouldn't return to Oscar.

Manuel abandoned his efforts to persuade Oscar, clinging to a faint hope that Hannah wouldn't have to wait ten or twenty years – an impossibly long time. Even if she remained by his side, her love would surely be gone.

"Manuel, handle the Kensbury business," Oscar instructed, offering no further explanation.

"Okay," Manuel replied promptly.

Later, Manuel called Hannah. "This is Manuel. I spoke with my cousin; you can now resume your work at Cooper Group."

"Thanks," Hannah replied, unexpectedly calm. Her lack of excitement suggested any hope for her ex-husband had vanished, allowing her to accept his decision.

"Hannah, Cooper Group is my final target. No need to rush," Manuel reassured her.

"All right," she responded, her tone emotionless.

"Call if you need anything. I can still help, except for matters where I can't defy my cousin."

"Understood."

Manuel knew he could barely assist Hannah in achieving her desires, but he would do all he could to alleviate her suffering, however slightly. He couldn't refuse Theodore's request, yet felt guilty about his actions. Facing Hannah, Susan, and Edward overwhelmed him emotionally; he could only minimize the harm inflicted upon them.

"I have to go," Manuel said.

"Okay," Hannah replied. Her smile faded as soon as she hung up.

A problem arose: informing her parents of her divorce and the impending acquisition of Cooper Group. But after a moment of despondency, Hannah rose from the couch. Max, watchful for any signs of extreme distress, such as suicide, observed her.

Hannah found her own reaction somewhat amusing. If she were suicidal, she would have ended her life when Oscar confined her after their divorce; waiting only prolonged her suffering.

"Max," she said, "Manuel called; I'm permitted to leave. Please confirm this with your master."

"Yes, ma'am," Max responded eagerly, relieved. He’d worried about her mental health, fearing the custody arrangement was too damaging.

Max quickly contacted Oscar, who gave further instructions. Afterward, Max approached Hannah, brimming with excitement. "Ma'am, you can go out anytime. Master Oscar has arranged security for your protection."

Hannah scoffed at this transparent excuse, recognizing it as surveillance rather than genuine protection.

"Understood. I'm leaving now. Please arrange transportation."

"Yes, ma'am," Max replied, far happier than she felt.

"Max," Hannah began.

"Yes? Anything I can help with?" Max asked enthusiastically.

Hannah momentarily envied Oscar's loyal steward. "Please don't call me 'ma'am' anymore."

Embarrassment froze the smile on Max's face.

"Don't worry, Oscar won't blame you. This isn't personal. I won't punish the messenger; it's between Oscar and me. But I'm not his wife anymore. Please call me by my name, or Miss Cooper," Hannah said calmly.

This proved challenging for Max.

"Don't worry," Hannah reassured him gently. "Oscar won't blame you."

Max nodded awkwardly. "Yes, Miss Cooper."

Hannah smiled at his adjustment. "I'll go upstairs to change. Please arrange a car to take me to the office."

"Yes, Miss… Miss Cooper."

Hannah ascended the stairs. The moment her back was turned, her smile vanished. Maintaining a cheerful facade while feeling melancholic was a considerable effort.

She donned a formal dress, concealing her baby bump with loose clothing. Simple makeup refreshed her appearance.

In the car, she found two respectful bodyguards, one in the passenger seat and the other beside her. She realized she'd have to adapt to this level of protection.

The car pulled up to Cooper Group. The sight of the company logo stung; soon, the building would bear a different name. Hannah suppressed her emotions and entered the building.

Her unexpected arrival surprised the staff, who assumed she'd be at home, caring for herself and supporting Oscar's ascent to Commander-in-Chief. Her presence was a shock.

Rose, speechless at seeing Hannah in her office, had assumed Hannah would remain home to become the First Lady. Tears welled in Rose's eyes.

"Ms. Hannah!" Rose exclaimed, "I can't believe you're here!"

The sight of Rose struck Hannah's heart. How could she break the news of Jimmy's death?

Hannah nodded slightly, then sat at her desk, which remained as pristine as before.

"Ms. Hannah, would you like a drink? Some milk?" Rose offered.

Hannah shook her head, speaking in a somber tone. "Rose?"

"Yes?" Rose replied eagerly.

Hannah produced an amulet from her bag – the one Rose had given Jimmy, instantly recognizable. Distress clouded her face.

"Why did he send it back? If he didn't want it, he could have thrown it away!" Rose lamented.

"Where is he?" Rose asked, her voice laced with annoyance. "Is he with Mr. Wells and won't return?"

Hannah remained silent, her eyes slightly reddened, though she fought back tears.

"Jimmy isn't right for you," Hannah said softly. "Just forget him." She returned the amulet to Rose.