Chapter 830: Happy Birthday

Then he bought her ice cream. Hannah's appetite, long dormant, bloomed. As she savored the treat, Oscar watched, a smile playing in his eyes. He smiled back, but her smile quickly faded.

Oscar seemed to be formulating a plan. He glanced at her half-eaten ice cream, then reached for it. Stunned, Hannah simply stared.

"I know ice cream doesn't harm the pregnancy, but you should limit it. I'll finish this."

Hannah looked away, pouting like a child robbed of her dessert.

"If you want more, I can buy you another one next time. Too much at once might upset your stomach."

"I don't like it that much," Hannah mumbled sullenly.

Oscar couldn't help smiling. It had been a long time since they'd spent leisure time together. They lingered, then went to a jewelry store.

"Let's get a good luck necklace for the baby," Oscar suggested.

Hannah didn't object; it was for the baby's benefit, and she rarely refused his decisions. The saleswoman displayed various necklaces.

"Do you like any?" Oscar asked.

"They all look nice," Hannah replied.

"Alright, I'll take this one," Oscar decided, selecting a necklace.

"Yes, sir. One moment, please. Let me wrap it up for you," the saleswoman said, nodding.

"I need two," he added.

"Yes, sir."

He hadn't bought baby clothes for Lillian's child, but felt it important to treat both children equally in symbolic gestures.

Hannah thought it was time to go home. In the car, she realized they weren't heading that way, but didn't ask. She was accustomed to Oscar's decisions.

The car headed towards Mount Northfield, the site of their first negotiation. It was undoubtedly nostalgic for Hannah, particularly a certain bend in the road.

"Do you remember this place?" Oscar asked.

Hannah nodded; it was too memorable to forget, especially her story with Oscar.

"Our cars collided that day, and I was startled to see you get out. But then, I was overwhelmed with excitement," Oscar murmured.

Hannah remained impassive.

"It seemed incredible then that you'd help me escape a wedding by faking a relationship. I felt like I was dreaming," he said, smiling, clearly reminiscing about their first meeting.

Hannah remained silent and unmoved. Oscar fell silent, sensing her displeasure.

The car ascended Mount Northfield, taking an unfamiliar mountain road. At the summit, they parked outside a luxurious restaurant. Hannah had never known of its existence.

Oscar noticed her surprise. "It's exclusive, for members only, gentlemen primarily. Their female companions are also allowed, but you know what I mean by 'companions.' That's why you've never heard of it."

Hannah understood immediately; it was a place for wealthy men and their mistresses.

"But don't worry. I've had it strictly regulated; the unsavory aspects are gone. It's just a regular restaurant now, but the changes are recent, so few know."

Hannah felt a flicker of sympathy for the owner, now under Oscar's strict supervision.

"Commander, Madam, welcome," a line of receptionists greeted them respectfully.

Oscar led her into a suite with a grand French window overlooking a cliff and rushing river—a spectacular dining location.

"Theodore and I used to be patrons here," Oscar said.

"Patrons sleeping with girls?" Hannah blurted out.

Oscar smiled, unfazed. "Theodore was that kind of patron."

Hannah was silent, remembering Oscar's claim of only ever sleeping with her. He wasn't a typical playboy; the notorious Oscar had fallen only for her. Now, the refined gentleman Oscar was married to Lillian. How absurd!

"Commander, Madam, shall I serve the dishes?" a waiter inquired respectfully.

"Mhm," Oscar nodded.

The dishes arrived, one by one. They sat at a large table facing the French window. The view and romantic atmosphere made her acknowledge Oscar's flair for luxury. After the meal, Oscar ordered wine for himself and tepid water for Hannah.

"Hannah, happy birthday," Oscar said.

Surprise registered on her face. She'd almost forgotten it was her birthday, and now understood his suggestion to spend the day together.

She raised her glass. "Thank you."

She sipped her water as Oscar sipped his wine. Piano music filled the air, enhancing the romantic ambiance.

Oscar produced a box. Hannah, mid-steak, paused.

"I hope you like it," Oscar said.

Inside was a diamond necklace, sparkling brilliantly.

"You got this at the jewelry store?" Hannah asked, wondering if he'd bought it while selecting the baby necklaces.

He had, in fact, purchased it specifically. He'd reserved it two months prior.