Chapter 916: Oscar's Sudden Return

"Every time Sal smiles, he looks just like you," Susan said suddenly.

Hannah nodded. Indeed, Salem's crinkled eyes mirrored her own whenever he smiled.

"But when he doesn't smile, he's just like that scumbag Oscar," Susan gritted her teeth.

The remark reopened old wounds, leaving Hannah speechless. Justine felt equally awkward. Hearing that Oscar wouldn't return today had puzzled her; she knew there were many things beyond his control. Yet, Susan broached the subject without hesitation.

"What about these?" Hannah diverted the conversation, gesturing to a nearby pile of clothes.

"These are all my favorites," Susan said, picking up a small shirt without a second thought. Her mood shifted effortlessly, even in this tense atmosphere. "Isn't this great? I think Sal will look amazing in this!"

"It looks good," Hannah agreed. Susan's impeccable taste had always been an inspiration to her during Hannah's design days. "But you bought too much," Hannah exclaimed, incredulously surveying the mountain of outfits. "What are you going to do with all of these? He's growing so fast; they won't fit soon! It's such a waste!"

"Waste of what?" Susan shrugged. "Sal is so handsome, those clothes should consider themselves lucky to be worn by him, even once!"

Only Susan could make wasting money sound so casual, Hannah mused.

"Well, I already bought them, so you have to make sure Sal wears them," Susan declared.

"Okay," Hannah conceded.

Don't say no to Susan, or she'll annoy you to death, she thought.

Feeling elated, Susan kissed Salem. "Do you like your godmother?"

Sal nodded obediently.

"Say 'godmother'," Susan prompted.

After a struggle, Salem finally uttered a sound. His adorable expression sent the room into laughter. Just when everyone thought he'd fail, he clearly said, "Mama!"

Susan laughed, "You can call me Mama, too."

Thrilled by the praise, Salem danced excitedly. "Come on, call Papa now!" Without a moment's hesitation, Susan carried Salem to Manuel.

Manuel felt embarrassed but then heard Salem shout, "Papa!" The word came easily; he'd been saying it since six months old.

Susan's smile broadened as she handed Salem to Manuel. "Come on, hold your son."

Manuel cherished holding Salem. Despite Susan's teasing, Salem readily cuddled against his chest. The three of them looked like a family, tugging at Hannah's heartstrings. If something happened to me, I could leave Salem with them, she thought.

"Hannah," Justine called, snapping her back to reality.

"Yes?" Hannah responded politely.

"Thanks for taking care of Salem," Justine said kindly.

"It's no trouble; many people help, and Sal is well-behaved," Hannah smiled warmly. "Besides, he's my child; it's natural."

Justine hesitated, then decided against further comment. Hannah was perceptive. She chose to let the matter drop to avoid awkwardness. Even the most patient woman would struggle with Oscar's current situation, and Hannah was proud, even if she didn't want to cause embarrassment.

In the living room, Susan and Salem's joyful interaction filled the air. It was past 6 pm; Salem's birthday banquet had begun.

Though called a banquet, only a few attended. The family had decorated the backyard like an outdoor restaurant and prepared a charming cake.

Salem sat before his cake, eager to grab it, though Hannah restrained him. Michelle lit a candle as everyone sang "Happy Birthday." They found this intimate celebration more meaningful.

After singing, they helped Salem blow out the candles, but he couldn't manage it, leading to more laughter.

"Never mind, let's help Sal," Susan said, unable to watch his struggle.

Salem clearly craved cake. Hannah smiled, "Okay."

But as she leaned to help, her eyes froze. Everyone followed her gaze to Oscar, standing in the garden, watching them.

Why was he here?

Susan felt conflicted. His absence would have been worse, yet his return was still annoyingly obstructive. Who knew what Hannah felt?

The happy atmosphere shifted awkwardly. Oscar felt like an outsider, but Justine quickly responded. She approached him cheerfully. "Perfect timing! We're just about to blow out the candles. Come on over."

Oscar glanced at Hannah. She had already masked her earlier emotions, a smile playing on her lips. "You made me wait, so I didn't wait for you," she said.

Oscar nodded and silently walked towards her. They reached Salem's side together.