Chapter 827: Night of Silence

Lillian, surprised by Hannah's perceptiveness, began to assess her. Recalling their previous hospital conversation, Lillian initially believed Hannah was convinced. On reflection, however, she suspected Hannah only believed Lillian and her family faced grave danger should Oscar lose his power. Hannah didn't seem to believe Lillian's marriage to Oscar was purely political, devoid of genuine feeling on Lillian's part.

This time, Hannah immediately discerned Lillian's true thoughts, a difficult truth for Lillian to deny. Lillian responded with a seemingly amicable smile. "Hannah, my marriage is purely political. Frankly, we both have compelling reasons to maintain it. Oscar and I are more like comrades than a couple. We are open with each other. I wouldn't act against his wishes, nor interfere with his personal choices. I truly respect his decisions. I'm sorry, I can't help you."

Hannah anticipated this response, having noticed someone approaching. Lillian always concealed her true feelings when Oscar was present. Hannah knew a simple conversation wouldn't sway Lillian. However, once Lillian understood Hannah's perspective, she believed Lillian, eager to distance Hannah from Oscar, would assist her escape. It was merely a matter of time.

Hannah smiled. Sensing Lillian's need to appear obedient to Oscar, Hannah played along. "I didn't expect you to be so genuinely committed to Oscar. I assumed you'd prioritize your own desires. Whatever. As his mistress, I've shown you the utmost disrespect. Your generosity amazes me. I'm truly sorry. Good night."

"Hannah, Oscar has been kind to you. Cherish his affection. There was once a man…," Lillian trailed off, tears welling in her eyes. Hannah sensed Lillian had genuinely loved someone, or perhaps merely feigned affection before Oscar. The truth remained elusive. Oscar’s awareness of Lillian’s past love might soften his defenses.

"Sometimes I envy those truly in love. Their ability to share time together is a great blessing," Lillian murmured, closing her eyes to hide her sadness.

Hannah remained silent.

Lillian continued, "It's late. I should sleep. Good night."

"Good night," Hannah replied, turning to leave. She then saw Oscar standing nearby in the corridor. The silence was profound enough for him to have overheard their conversation. He now knew of Lillian's generosity and Hannah's infidelity.

Hannah walked past as if nothing had happened, smiling, "Finished your shower?"

Oscar nodded.

"Sleep with me or Lillian?" Hannah asked, the question laced with sarcasm. She genuinely hoped he'd choose Lillian. With his power, he could do as he pleased.

"Hannah," Oscar said gravely.

"Yes?" she maintained her smile.

"She won't help you," Oscar stated flatly.

Her smile faltered. "I know. I had to try. I have nowhere else to turn."

"You really want to leave me?" Oscar asked.

"What do you think?" Hannah retorted.

He hesitated, a sense of constriction gripping him. After a moment's contemplation, he reached for her hand. Her fingers trembled, yet she remained silent.

"Time for bed," Oscar said.

Hannah nodded. He would never truly compromise. They returned to the bedroom. As Hannah was settling down, Oscar said, "Max said to apply ointment to your neck."

Instinctively, she reached for the scratch, but Oscar stopped her. "Don't touch it; it might fester."

Hannah nodded. He sat beside her, carefully applying ointment. The touch caused a sharp pain.

"Does it hurt?" Oscar asked.

"A little, but I'm fine," she said casually.

"I'll be gentle."

While applying the ointment, he breathed on the scratch to ease the pain. She gazed at his profile, noticing his attractive jawline for the first time in what felt like ages. His lashes, Roman nose, and attentive expression captivated her. His face seemed both familiar and foreign. She remembered their first meeting after her resurrection; he was a playboy. Now, he was a refined, taciturn gentleman. She missed the dissolute playboy.

He was about to leave when Hannah said softly, "Oscar."

He felt a thrill. They stared at each other. He'd noticed her intense gaze while applying the ointment but hadn't dared to look back. Now, he was hesitant, fearful of giving in, yet unable to look away.

Silence filled the air, charged with unspoken feelings. Oscar watched as she moved closer. His body tensed, his fists clenching. He felt frozen, afraid of frightening her. Suddenly, he shuddered.

Her lips met his, their softness overwhelming him.