Chapter 868: Hannah's Change

Oscar shivered at the question. He looked at Hannah, meeting her calm gaze, devoid of acrimony.

"Is anything wrong?" Hannah asked, concerned. Oscar remained silent. Her voice held a hint of anxiety.

After a moment, Oscar said calmly, "No big deal. She just needs hospitalization for observation, a few days."

"Great," Hannah breathed, relieved. "I was shocked seeing her fall. If anything were wrong with her or the baby, how could I ever atone for Cian's life?"

"Hannah..." Oscar couldn't bear to hear her speak thus; he didn't want her burdened with such guilt.

"I'm grateful to know Cian's bloodline continues. You must feel the same, right? I can imagine your excitement at learning Lillian carried Cian's child. So I forgive you for everything," Hannah said sincerely. "You should have told me sooner, instead of keeping it from me."

"What would you have done if I had?" Oscar asked.

"Maybe I'd still have left you for Lillian, but at least I'd understand your choice—unwilling, but necessary, for your brother. And I could have lived without this bitterness," she replied, her sincerity palpable.

"I'm sorry," Oscar apologized.

"Never mind. It's understandable. You didn't want me involved in your family's affairs. And I assume the Collins threatened you," Hannah surmised, placing herself in his position.

Oscar nodded. "When I learned Cian had a child, I accepted their terms: divorcing you, marrying Lillian, and concealing the truth about Lillian's baby. I agreed to ensure the baby had a complete family and promised them it would be the sole heir."

Hannah understood his excitement and fear, the fear that forced his compromise.

"How many months along is Lillian?" Hannah asked.

"Six months," Oscar replied.

No wonder her belly seemed so large. Hannah had assumed four months, misled into believing it was Oscar's child. Four months made sense if it were Cian's. They spoke of Cian and Lillian harmoniously, as a loving couple.

A nurse entered. "I'm here to check Ms. Cooper's milk supply."

Hannah felt a pang of sorrow, reminded of her absent baby. Oscar seemed momentarily frozen by the same pain. Without a baby, what use was a milk supply?

But neither Hannah nor Oscar showed their grief. The nurse approached Hannah, undid her clothing, while Oscar remained impassive, watching. Hannah’s commitment to Oscar had meant sacrificing many things she held dear.

The nurse touched and gently pressed Hannah's breast. "Does it hurt?"

Hannah felt tightness and nodded. She'd felt unwell that morning, unaware it was a sign of milk production.

"Okay. I'll call lactation services. Since your baby isn't here, you're at risk of mastitis," the nurse explained.

"Thank you."

The nurse left and returned with a lactation specialist. Hannah lay on the bed while Oscar watched. Hannah's expression revealed the discomfort, but she remained silent except for occasional moans.

"Ms. Cooper, your supply may be sufficient. The massage improved your condition. Use an electric pump when your breasts feel full. If the doctor allows, the nurse can give the milk to your baby. Mother's milk is best."

"Got it," Hannah nodded, her response peaceful, her sorrow constrained.

Once the nurses left, only Oscar and Hannah remained. Hannah began dressing, but Oscar helped her, and she didn't refuse his assistance. The door burst open.

Oscar quickly shielded Hannah. Theodore stood there, slightly embarrassed, surprised by their intimacy, given their previous bitter conflict. Recovering his composure, he said, "Lillian seems to have a poor appetite. Should you check on her?"

"Have the doctor assess her discharge," Oscar refused.

"I have. But the doctor says she's emotionally distressed, and uterine contractions have started. Leaving now is risky. At six months, any complications could be fatal."

"I see," Oscar said flatly, showing no inclination to leave.

"Max brought your lunch to Lillian's ward. Eat something, at least for your stomach," Theodore persisted, though hopeful of little success.

"Mhm," Oscar replied.

Theodore shrugged and left. He believed the best outcome for the couple was Oscar dying before Hannah, sparing both further suffering.

After Theodore's departure, Hannah finished dressing with Oscar's help.

"Go see Lillian. I'm tired. I need to sleep," Hannah said. Oscar didn't reply.

"Lillian initially shamed me, my perception of her was skewed. But knowing her relationship with Cian has relieved me. Don't worry about me. Spend time with her. Cian's blood is precious to me, too," Hannah added, her sincerity evident. Oscar remained silent.

"Go to her," Hannah urged. "I need rest. Don't worry."

Oscar watched her. A faint smile played on her lips as she cheerfully pushed him toward another woman.

He swallowed his bitterness and obeyed. "I'll come back later."

"Okay," Hannah nodded, showing no sadness.

Oscar turned to leave. As he did, Hannah's smile faded.