Chapter 826: A Talk With Lillian

Rowan was convinced. Lillian continued, "But luckily, it was Hannah. At least we can confirm Oscar hasn't plotted against us."

Rowan nodded. Even if Oscar had orchestrated everything and used Hannah as a scapegoat, the Collins would still avoid conflict. Fighting Oscar would benefit neither side, especially now that the situation had settled. Peace was the priority; neither Oscar nor the Collins dared to make aggressive moves. The Collins’ investigation aimed to understand Oscar's intentions and prepare for the worst.

"But we can't be passive," Lillian said. "Even though Sarah lost a fair fight, it's still a challenge to the Collins. We can't ignore it."

"I know you want revenge for your sister," Rowan replied, "but we can only wait. We have too many enemies. If anything goes wrong, they'll strike. We have to swallow this temporarily, though I desperately want to act."

Lillian compromised. "Okay. Whatever. We still have a chance."

"Lillian, you're important to us. Be careful. Learn from your sister's mistake."

"I know what to do."

"How are you feeling?" Rowan asked gently.

"Good," Lillian said. "Since getting pregnant, I've had few problems, just morning sickness early on. How time flies! I haven't felt sick since I knew I was pregnant. Dad, don't worry, I'll take care of myself."

"I'm glad," Rowan said, his relief evident, but then hesitated. "What's the matter?" Lillian frowned.

"You've been pregnant over four months… It's time to go home and check the baby's gender."

Her heart skipped a beat. She hadn't considered it until now, and Rowan's mention annoyed her. Northfield, while seemingly less patriarchal, still had a hereditary system. In a noble family like the Collins, men held a superior position. If the baby were a girl, Oscar might not make her heir.

"Don't be nervous. We'll see when you're home," Rowan said, sensing her worry.

"But I'm wondering about Hannah's baby's gender," Lillian said thoughtfully. She felt it was crucial to know.

"That worries me too. Our deal with Oscar allowed him to keep Hannah and her baby. We compromised for peace, and he insisted. But now, it could cause problems. If your baby is a boy, it solves everything. But if your baby is a girl and hers is a boy…"

Lillian clenched her fists. That would be the worst-case scenario.

"We'll discuss it when you return home," Rowan soothed. "Even in the worst case, we can act. We can't move rashly against Oscar, but eliminating Hannah would be easy. However, we have leverage over Oscar; I doubt he'll risk it."

"Okay," Lillian nodded.

After a few minutes, Rowan hung up.

Lying in bed, Lillian tossed and turned, agitated by the conversation. The baby's gender remained uncertain. Then, she heard a knock. Alert, she opened the door to find Hannah.

"I assumed you were still awake," Hannah said.

Lillian was surprised Hannah had initiated contact. But where was Oscar? She glanced around.

"He's showering. Don't worry, I won't harm you," Hannah said frankly.

Lillian smiled. "I didn't mean that. But I assume Oscar doesn't want us talking alone."

"Is he that scary?" Hannah asked.

"It's out of respect. Mutual respect."

"Does he show you respect by keeping me as a mistress?"

After a pause, Lillian replied, "My marriage to Oscar is a political alliance. We don't interfere in each other's private lives."

"It's a political marriage for him. Is it the same for you?"

Lillian remained silent.

"If you felt the same, you wouldn't have emphasized how nice he is to you in front of me."

Lillian felt embarrassed. "Neither of us can change his mind. I can only strive for his affection."

"But I can tell you want more than that," Hannah stated firmly.

Lillian clenched her teeth. Hannah, though seemingly calm, intimidated her. Hannah was more sophisticated than she'd expected, and she'd imprisoned Sarah. Lillian knew Oscar loved Hannah for more than her looks. Despite her apprehension, she remained composed.

"During our hospital conversation, I learned from you. I've been obedient to avoid trouble. I know my family and I are doomed without Oscar's protection. So I take no risks. But I've thought a lot. As long as Oscar holds power, the Collins won't plot against me, nor will his other enemies. If Oscar remains in power, my family and I will continue to live comfortably."

"What do you mean?" Lillian asked, alert.

"I don't want to hinder his career. I want you to help me escape him," Hannah declared.

Lillian's expression changed. "Are you sure I have the courage?"

"Yes, I am," Hannah said confidently.

Stunned, Lillian felt as though her thoughts were transparent.