Chapter 881: An Awkward Dinner

Hannah felt Oscar's breath and the heat of his body, knowing what would follow. She didn't refuse, even putting her arms around his waist. Feeling his slight, uncontrolled tremor, Oscar kissed her—ears, cheeks, then lips. He lifted her onto the toilet table, holding her tightly yet kissing her gently. The bathroom grew increasingly warmer.

Suddenly, Michelle's voice called from the doorway, "Hannah, Hannah!"

Both were momentarily dumbfounded. Michelle's footsteps approached as she called again. Hannah saw the panic in Oscar's eyes, mirroring the reactions of young lovers whose secret is discovered.

"Mom, what is it?" Hannah asked from the bathroom.

"Why are you in the bathroom? Come downstairs for dinner," Michelle replied.

"We'll be down soon," Hannah said.

Michelle, sensing their activity, said impatiently, "Hurry!"

"Okay."

Michelle left.

Hannah and Oscar exchanged glances; their passion cooled by the interruption.

"Shall we continue?" Hannah asked.

"Let's eat dinner first," Oscar said after a pause.

Hannah nodded peacefully, quietly adjusting her clothing as Oscar helped.

"Thanks," she murmured.

Oscar bit his lip, remaining silent.

They descended to find Miguel, Michelle, and Lorie waiting.

"What are you dawdling for?" Michelle snapped, her dislike for Oscar evident.

"We're here, Mom," Hannah appeased her.

"He's wearing your father's pajamas?" Michelle asked, glancing at Oscar.

"He didn't have any, and I'll have the maid get him some," Hannah explained. The pajamas were slightly small.

Michelle, resigned to Hannah's constant advocacy for Oscar, said nothing further.

Dinner was quiet. Oscar, sensing his unwelcome presence, ate quietly. He picked up a piece of fish, but Michelle snatched it, placing it on Hannah's plate. "Hannah, eat more fish; it's good for you and the baby."

Hannah bit her lip, murmuring, "Hmm."

Oscar, embarrassed, reached for some beef. Michelle intercepted it, placing it on Lorie's plate. "Lorie, beef is good for your health."

Lorie, understanding Michelle's intent, smiled. "Yes, thank you, Michelle."

Their exchange created a jarringly happy contrast to Oscar's discomfort. He tried vegetables, but Michelle redirected them to Miguel. "Darling, the doctor said you need more vegetables."

Even Miguel felt embarrassed but remained silent. Oscar was left with only rice.

Hannah attempted to serve Oscar, but Michelle's glare stopped her. Hannah felt speechless.

"Commander," Michelle said pointedly, "why are you only eating what's on your plate? Don't these dishes suit your taste?"

Oscar nearly choked on his rice.

"We're an ordinary family with simple food," Michelle continued, her intention to drive him away clear. "Commander, if you can't manage the food, you may leave early."

Oscar nodded, "Hmm."

"Someone's thick-skinned," Michelle added disdainfully.

"Mom, did we get a new cook?" Hannah interjected.

"No, what's wrong?" Michelle frowned.

"The dishes are a bit salty," Hannah said.

Michelle tasted the food. "Yes, a little salty. I'll tell the cook to lighten up. You can't eat too much salt now; it's bad for the baby."

Oscar finished his meal and returned to the room with Hannah, who went to feed the baby. Returning, she found Oscar asleep, noticing the heavy shadows under his eyes. She thought, He must be so tired dealing with those matters. He should rest instead of coming to see me.

She quietly left the room. Oscar opened his eyes, watching her go. He had pretended to sleep, knowing Hannah wouldn't disguise herself if he couldn't see her. He turned over, forcing himself to sleep and waiting for her return. But Hannah had no intention of staying. Oscar eventually drifted off to sleep, exhausted and in need of rest.