Chapter 891: Provocation

While watching the baby, Hannah smiled gently; Oscar stood beside her, returning her tender smile. Lillian, sitting on the bed, observed them, a flicker of viciousness crossing her eyes.

Although Oscar had been attentive during her labor, Lillian knew his devotion stemmed from his responsibility to the baby, not to her. He had remained by her side despite a nasty scratch inflicted during childbirth, offering encouragement without complaint. Yet, the moment the baby arrived, his attention shifted entirely.

To outsiders, it seemed Lillian had struck gold: Oscar, even the Mr. Commander, tended the baby tirelessly. But only Lillian recognized that their marriage played no part in his affection for the child. She longed for a single glance, a simple thank you.

Earlier, breastfeeding had been excruciating, as painful as labor. Oscar, however, remained outside the room, ignoring her cries. He didn't even check on her until the baby finally slept. The baby was his sole focus, and now Hannah diverted even more attention. Lillian, the mother, was utterly disregarded.

"Do you want to hold her?" Oscar asked Hannah.

"Can I?" Hannah asked, thrilled.

"Of course. She's soundly asleep," Oscar explained.

Hannah gently took the baby. She handled the infant expertly, her experience with her own son evident. The baby was lighter and softer than her son, making her smile widen. Oscar's mirrored hers.

But hatred simmered in Lillian's heart. It was her daughter, yet they seemed like a family of three. Humiliated, Lillian's fists clenched under the quilt. Hannah's complacent glance nearly drove her mad. This wasn't a simple visit; Lillian saw it as a declaration of war, Hannah asserting her primacy in Oscar's life after the birth. She fought to remain calm, to avoid revealing her true feelings before Oscar. As long as she had the baby, she believed she held the upper hand.

"Hannah, you're so good with her," Lillian said, forcing a warm smile.

"I've had plenty of practice with my son," Hannah replied, knowing this was insufficient to truly provoke Lillian. Lillian's pride wouldn't tolerate such humiliation indefinitely; Hannah had time.

"Oscar's good too, but I still have much to learn."

"Oh, Oscar has tons of experience with my son. He always takes care of him when he gets home."

"I never expected him to be so fond of babies," Lillian feigned delight. "Since the birth, he's been with her every minute. He's the most responsible dad in the world! Everyone in the hospital is talking about him."

"Indeed," Hannah echoed calmly.

Lillian gritted her teeth. "Oh, Oscar, I'm so sorry I scratched your arm. Are you alright? I feel terrible."

"No worries," Oscar replied casually.

Hannah remained unfazed, showing no jealousy. Lillian's efforts were futile.

Max knocked on the door.

"Come in," Lillian said warmly.

Max entered with refreshments. "Madam, I've brought your supplements."

"Thank you," Lillian replied graciously.

Max left, flattered by her politeness.

After consuming the supplement, Lillian turned to Hannah and Oscar. "I love Max's cooking. His help has made my recovery so much easier."

"He's very considerate," Hannah agreed.

"But now that Max is here... how about you?" Lillian feigned concern.

"Don't worry about me. I'm with my parents. And with Max here, Oscar can finally have proper meals. He has gastric problems, so I’m relieved." Hannah smiled, appearing genuinely considerate of Oscar.

Lillian grew wary. Had Hannah resigned herself to being Oscar's mistress? If so, Lillian had no chance. Worse, Hannah, brilliant and ambitious, might even be plotting to secure her son's inheritance, thus securing her own power.

The thought chilled Lillian. Hannah's success meant Lillian's misery.

"It's time for the baby and Mrs. Wells to rest," Hannah said, gently placing the baby in the crib.

Lillian recovered herself. "It must have been a long journey from Kensbury. Won't you stay a little longer?" she smiled, feigning a desire for conversation.

"I'm not leaving today. I'll return to Kensbury tomorrow, but I'll be with Oscar tonight, and I’ll see you tomorrow before I leave." Hannah added.