Chapter 927: The Outbreak of War (3) — Internal Strife within the Collins Family

Oscar, driving down the street, couldn't show himself and couldn't return directly. He checked his phone, then told Theodore, "Lillian took Una away."

Theodore nodded, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "So your charm isn't all that great after all." Lillian had chosen her family.

Oscar ignored him. "No matter what happens, protecting Una comes first." The unspoken agreement was clear: Theodore would prioritize Una's safety, even at risk to himself.

"You've brainwashed me countless times," Theodore chuckled, leaning back. "Anyone could die, but not Una."

Oscar nodded. Theodore gazed out the window at the city, its peace guarded by Oscar, at the cost of everything.

Lillian had returned to the Collins family. Near the castle, Rowan intercepted their car. His men swiftly subdued the guards, who dared not harm Lillian and Una. Lillian's departure had been remarkably smooth; with Oscar absent, his forces were vulnerable, a fact her father had shrewdly exploited.

Back at the Collins home, Rowan awaited Lillian, along with Mathew, confined to a wheelchair. Mathew harbored deep resentment toward Oscar, wishing for his immediate demise, and blamed his sister for his predicament.

"Lillian, you're finally back," Rowan greeted her warmly. He’d skillfully manipulated her return, balancing paternal concern with the threat of harsher measures. More importantly, if Oscar possessed any remaining plans, Una would serve as a shield; Oscar's death would likely result in Una's "accidental" demise. He intended to eliminate all threats, regardless of whether they were Oscar's or Cian's children. Severing all ties was paramount for their imperial family.

Lillian, however, remained oblivious to Rowan’s true intentions. She believed her father sought to ensure her and Una’s safety, perhaps using Una as leverage against Oscar. The idea that he would harm them never crossed her mind.

"Come here, let me hold Una," Rowan said, extending his arms, a loving expression on his face.

Lillian readily handed over Una. Rowan held the child close, a sinister smile twisting his lips. Looking at the innocent Una, he silently mused, "I'm not being a cruel grandfather. It's your fault. You shouldn't exist."

"Father," Lillian, noticing nothing amiss, asked, "What's our next move?"

Rowan, watching Una, replied, "Once we receive news of Oscar's death, I'll eliminate his men. Everything is in place; we simply need the opportune moment."

The mention of Oscar's death unsettled Lillian. She had another reason for returning.

Gathering her courage, she asked, "Can we spare Oscar's life?"

Rowan's jovial facade crumbled. "What did you say?!"

"Can't we control him? We don't have to kill him. I understand Father's philosophy regarding enemies, but once Oscar loses power, he'll pose no further threat…"

"Enough! I will not hear another word!"

"Father, I admit it. I like Oscar." Seeing reason fail, Lillian appealed to his emotions. She believed his love for her might soften his resolve. This was precisely why she'd left the castle—to prevent Oscar's death.

"You liked Cian. Love is fickle! Later, you'll find someone better." Rowan countered coldly.

"There's no one better than Oscar. Let your plan succeed, then I'll leave Northfield with him and ensure he never returns."

"So for Oscar, you'd abandon me?"

"If I didn't care, I would have already told Oscar your plan! My loyalty remains. Since it doesn't harm our interests, couldn't you grant my request?"

"Oscar will die!" Rowan declared firmly.

"Father!"

"Enough! I thought you were intelligent, but you're like your sister—foolishly driven by emotion! Your sister's imprisonment resulted from her feelings for Oscar. Do you wish to follow in her footsteps?"

"I won't!" Lillian retorted, "I just want to be with the person I love. I won't harm your interests!"

"Your request proves you lack boundaries. This isn't negotiable. Go to your room!"

Tears welled in Lillian's eyes. She saw a chilling ruthlessness in her father.

"Then don't blame me for my lack of filial piety," she declared.

Rowan's face darkened. Lillian snatched Una.

"I won't help you, nor will Una be your shield," Lillian stated coldly, holding Una close. "The outcome between you and Oscar depends entirely on who prevails!"

"Lillian!" Rowan roared.

Lillian started to leave, only to find bodyguards blocking her path.