Chapter 886: Manuel Is Discharged From the Hospital
Oscar stated flatly, "Keep Lillian's baby first."
Theodore, unsurprisingly, asked, "So, you're eliminating the Collins family?"
It wasn't solely Hannah's influence driving Oscar's revenge. Men are greedy. Initially, the Collins family had aimed for peaceful coexistence and shared custody of Cian's child, otherwise, they wouldn't have sought peace during the conflict. Perhaps they couldn't defeat Oscar and were forced to compromise. Regardless, their cooperation was ostensibly mutually beneficial.
However, their attempt on Hannah's life revealed their true intentions: seizing power from Oscar. Marrying Lillian would significantly strengthen the Collins family; they'd gain Cian's child as leverage.
The Collinses' blatant ambition left Oscar with no choice but to act, even if it meant hurting Lillian. He and Theodore considered Lillian solely as Cian's child's mother; they wouldn't harm her unless provoked. While she hadn't yet crossed that line, she was vulnerable should Oscar confront the Collins family.
Oscar hadn't initially intended to go this far, hoping Cian's child would have a safe upbringing to ease his guilt. But circumstances had forced his hand.
"I have no choice," Oscar said slowly.
Theodore nodded, his loyalty unquestioned.
Over the next three months, Oscar visited Kensbury City bi-weekly, staying a day or two each time. He bonded with Salem, who enthusiastically greeted him each visit. Life settled into a familiar rhythm. Oscar remained married to Lillian, while Hannah, residing elsewhere, awaited his return, maintaining a positive relationship.
Three months later, Manuel was discharged. The doctor declared he could recuperate at home after four months of Susan's dedicated care.
Susan and Justine brought Manuel home. He still used a wheelchair; the doctor advised another month before assessing his walking ability.
The doctor spoke privately with Susan before their departure. Susan emerged looking distressed.
"What did the doctor say?" Justine asked, concerned.
Susan remained silent.
"Damn it, Susan! Tell me! You're scaring me!" Justine exclaimed, panicked at the possibility of further complications.
"What have I done to scare you? It's none of your business!" Susan retorted angrily.
"Manuel is my son!" Justine shouted back.
Manuel sat calmly, accustomed to their frequent arguments.
"What can you do to help with our sex life?" Susan asked sullenly.
Justine, caught off guard, anxiously replied, "Oh God! He can't...?"
Manuel felt mortified.
"No," Susan snapped.
"Then why the fuss?" Justine asked.
"The doctor said to take it slow," Susan explained.
Justine was speechless.
"Manuel can't have sex, and I have to wait a month," Susan continued. "I was so excited, and now I'm bummed. Can't I be upset?"
Justine was at a loss for words.
"Why is this so hard?" Susan lamented.
Manuel blushed, wishing Susan would be less outspoken.
They arrived at Phillips Manor, where Justine had also returned. Susan was pleased with her success in persuading Justine; it ensured Manuel's proximity. She envisioned bringing her father home, needing only to retrieve his medical equipment and hire nurses. Family reunification, and possibly a baby with Manuel, loomed—a perfect future. Her thoughts were easily discernible to Manuel.
"Go to your room. I need a nap," Manuel said, lying down.
"This is my room," Susan countered.
Manuel frowned.
"We shared a room in the hospital," Susan said, annoyed by his expression.
"There weren't enough rooms," he replied.
"Same here."
"Susan!"
"What the hell!" she swore, climbing onto the bed beside him.
Manuel was furious at her single-mindedness. He woke nightly, while she slept soundly.
"I'm going to work tomorrow," Manuel announced.
Susan, emerging from under the covers, protested, "What? You can't! You're still recovering!"
"It's better than staying here and enduring your obsession," he thought.
"I'm coming with you," Susan said immediately.
"Of course you are," Manuel grumbled, inwardly wishing she'd return to her own work after four months away.