Chapter 864: The Truth of Lillian’s Baby

Hannah had underestimated Lillian, who would betray her own brother to save herself. Initially, Hannah disbelieved Lillian would risk so much, but Lillian had cleverly chosen a weak scapegoat. Hannah watched indifferently as Lillian knelt, saying nothing.

Hannah couldn't fathom Oscar's intentions. Perhaps he would let this slide to maintain political stability. For the sake of the Wells family's reign, Oscar had made many compromises.

Not long ago, Hannah herself had worried about the Wells family's power. Regaining control had been difficult, and she still felt guilty over Cian's death. She had tried to understand, forgive, and accept everything, but the pain had overwhelmed her.

"Don't you think your brother should pay for this?" Hannah asked, intending to frame Mathew for everything. She would take her time, dismantling them one by one.

"My father has imprisoned him. He's been beaten," Lillian replied.

"So, he's still alive," Hannah said coldly.

Lillian gritted her teeth. She knew neither Hannah nor Oscar would be merciful. But she needed to maintain appearances to protect her family and avoid suspicion.

"My father nearly shot him after hearing what happened. But Mathew is his only son, my only brother; we couldn't kill him. Besides, he did it for me. I couldn't bear to see him die. I... I'll take the blame!" Lillian declared firmly, feigning willingness to accept responsibility for Mathew.

Hannah snorted. "Fine. First, you should experience a premature delivery as well."

Lillian was speechless, staring at her. How could Hannah speak so cruelly, even in Oscar's presence? Clearly, Hannah cared nothing for his feelings.

"You'll suffer what I've suffered if you're taking your brother's blame. My baby is premature, in an incubator, and might die. Shouldn't yours share that fate? Your baby dies if mine doesn't survive."

Lillian was incredulous. What a vicious woman! To involve an innocent baby.

"You can't do that, can you?" Hannah laughed derisively.

Lillian clenched her fists. Hannah was relentless.

"Don't boast if you can't deliver. You're a hypocrite," Hannah said, passing Lillian. She harbored no intention of reconciliation.

"Hannah, do you know who fathered my baby?" Lillian asked abruptly.

Hannah stopped.

Lillian had no other choice; she had to reveal the truth to secure her safety. She knew Oscar would investigate if Hannah pressed the issue. Lillian knew Hannah was important to Oscar; otherwise, she wouldn't have repeatedly tried to kill her.

Surprisingly, Hannah had survived! Had Lillian succeeded, Oscar could only accept it; he would spare her, the mother of Cian's child. Her family would be safe. She believed she could win Oscar's heart once Hannah was gone. But Hannah lived, saved by Manuel.

Lillian knew Manuel and Hannah were childhood friends. She believed Manuel was infatuated with Susan, so she hadn't monitored him closely. Hannah was indeed clever.

Hannah turned back to Lillian. "Are you saying Oscar can't lose another child?"

Lillian shook her head, distressed. "Oscar loves you deeply. He wouldn't have sex with, or allow other women to carry, his child. He's devoted to you. Our marriage is purely political. Otherwise, he must protect me for the baby's sake."

Hannah frowned as Theodore entered. He must have heard Lillian was there. Seeing Lillian kneeling in despair, Theodore, who undoubtedly knew the Collins family's involvement in Hannah's accident, couldn't bear the sight of a pregnant woman on the floor. He glanced at Oscar and remained silent.

"What are you implying?" Hannah demanded, her patience exhausted. She wanted to kill Lillian and hated wasting time. She wouldn't show pity or forgiveness. She would make her point, regardless of Oscar's reaction.

"Cian is my baby's father," Lillian said heavily.

Hannah's composure faltered slightly.

Oscar swallowed. He initially hadn't wanted to tell Hannah, to spare her pain. But now, selfishly, he tacitly agreed; he couldn't kill Lillian. He needed a reason to spare her life, and this was it. He had, unwittingly, inflicted undeserved suffering on Hannah.

Theodore sighed. The truth was out. He had wanted to reveal it earlier, trying to convince Oscar to tell Hannah, but Oscar refused. He hadn't wanted Hannah to live with guilt, forcing herself to understand or forgive him, or to bear silently the pain and misfortune he had caused. At least, she could complain and vent her anger if she didn't know the truth.