Chapter 766: Remedial Action

The news shattered Miguel's composure. Hannah watched her father, his eyes blazing with uncontrollable fury at the incredible revelation.

"By what?" Miguel roared.

"While Northfield was under the Collins and Balderstons' control," Hannah explained, "the four Kensbury families became their prey. That's why the Collins allied with Charles—they hoped to seize our wealth through him, but he failed. This didn't change their ambitions; without complete economic control, their power is insecure. Now Oscar holds the upper hand, and naturally, he's targeting us."

Miguel paused, his business acumen grasping Hannah's explanation, yet struggling to accept Oscar's cruelty. They had been family. He shuddered with anger.

It was difficult for Hannah, too. "Dad, I felt the same fury when I heard this. Years of building our empire… I couldn't accept it being stolen. But I realized the fleeting nature of wealth and power. Nothing remains unchanged forever. At least we are safe."

"But we are safe and prosperous! How could he steal it so easily?" Miguel yelled.

"Oscar paid a substantial sum," Hannah added, the divorce settlement's origin suddenly clear. The Cooper Group had paid; it was premeditated. Whether Oscar's acquisition was forced or willing was irrelevant; only the outcome mattered.

"He wants to buy everything?" Miguel sneered. Oscar knew it wouldn't succeed completely, but it was better than nothing.

"Dad, we can't change this, but we can mitigate the damage," Hannah said.

"Can we fight?" Miguel refused to concede.

"No," Hannah confirmed. Knowing Oscar, she knew rebellion would only worsen the situation.

Miguel slammed his fist on his desk.

"After the acquisition," Hannah continued, "our managers may become redundant due to the change in leadership. Oscar won't keep my team. The elderly, less capable managers will be most affected. As their boss, we must consider them; we can ensure proper compensation before the takeover."

She remembered the Cooper Group's collapse under Charles; the managers were wronged, losing everything, including future prospects. That wouldn't happen again.

"Is there any way to keep the group?" Miguel pressed.

"Dad, if there's even a sliver of hope, I won't let go," Hannah replied.

Miguel sighed, the weight of the news draining his energy. He leaned back, pale, finally accepting the fate of his empire.

"Dad, I'm so sorry," Hannah apologized, blaming herself. Even if she hadn't chosen Oscar, the outcome might have been the same; his need for complete control dictated it. This offered some consolation.

"No, don't blame yourself," Miguel reassured her.

Hannah remained silent; words couldn't alleviate her guilt. Her father's suffering was inevitable.

"Dad, we have a month before Oscar acts. Besides the Cooper Group, Phillips Bank and the Wells Group are targets. He needs to control key economic sectors."

"Phillips Bank and Wells Group?" Miguel was incredulous.

Hannah nodded.

"Damn!" Miguel cursed. "Forget Wells—it's Oscar's own. But Phillips Bank! It's a mess. Edward's in a coma; Susan can't hold it together."

"I'll talk to Susan."

Miguel felt a profound helplessness. He sighed again, a sense of doom settling upon him.

"I'll work with HR on staff arrangements and negotiate with Oscar to retain as many employees as possible," Hannah said.

Miguel nodded; it was all they could do.

"Thank you, Hannah," Miguel said, patting her shoulder.

"My pleasure. I just hope I can make things better…"

"You've done brilliantly. Don't blame yourself. Family comes first," Miguel said, concerned for her. This was a blow to her, too.

"Family first," Hannah agreed. "We still have time. I can take you and Mom on trips."

"A safe delivery of your baby is priority one," Miguel said, forcing a smile. "Then we'll take the little one, too."

"That sounds great," Hannah replied, determined to fight Oscar.

"Dad, Mom needs support. Take care of her."

"Won't you come with me?" Miguel asked, assuming she'd return after the divorce.